By Tara Fischer

Staff Writer

The Lincoln Lodge #53 will sponsor a cancer awareness event on May 10 at Henry Park to encourage Berlin and Worcester County residents to prioritize their health.

The Berlin Town Council unanimously approved the event at a meeting earlier this week. Zsavelle Smack, applicant and representative for Lincoln Lodge #53, a group that provides gathering and event space and works to foster community connection, came before the governing group on Monday, March 24, where the idea was presented and green-lit.

The May 10 event will include a luncheon at Henry Park, during which individuals will sign a cancer pledge.

“That cancer pledge is to state that [attendees] will prioritize early detection, regular check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle,” Smack said. “They will identify healthy habits for physical and mental health, make an appointment for mammograms, prostate, colon, etcetera, and accept what is, let go of what was, and let fate have its way.”

Participants will take the pledge, sign their names, and receive a free lunch.

“This is our organization’s way of reaching out to the community to let them know we are here and we are going to be present in this community,” the representative added. “This is all done through our organization. This event is a start for us to really take hold in what we need to do in our community.”

May 10 was chosen to honor Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

A follow-up event will be held on Oct. 4 in recognition of breast cancer awareness.

The Berlin Town Council approved the event and waived the fee in acknowledgment of the organization’s nonprofit status. Members of the governing body expressed their gratitude for the upcoming occasion.

“I appreciate you taking the time…to bring this to the community,” council member Shaneka Nichols said.