TUTU A THANK YOU FOR LIFE-SAVING TECHNOLOGY AND EXPERTISE

Paris Bryant-Davis, a Bridgeton, NJ native, has donated the hand-crafted tutu that she wore in October at the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides against Breast Cancer Walk to South Jersey Radiology Associates (SJRA). Paris donated her tutu to SJRA in recognition of their life-saving efforts in the battle against breast cancer. SJRA provides radiology and imaging services (MRI, CT and PET scans) at 12 South Jersey locations, including its nine Women’s Centers where thousands of 2D and 3D mammograms are performed each year.

SJRA has been a flagship sponsor of the Making Strides walk, held at Cooper River Park in Pennsauken, New Jersey for many years. The event raises awareness about the importance of annual screening and early detection, while also celebrating breast cancer survivors.

Paris walks in support of two cousins who are breast cancer survivors, and in memory of her mother, Viola Bryant-Cufs, whom she lost to breast cancer in 1988 at the age of 50. Because of her family history, Paris has had annual mammograms since age 30. “I know it’s important that everyone gets checked regularly,” she states.

Dr. William F. Muhr, Jr., President of SJRA, emphasizes that “early detection saves lives.” In accordance with the guidelines of the American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imagers, Dr. Muhr urges average-risk women to begin annual mammogram screens at age 40 while women with certain risk factors (like Paris) should begin screening earlier.

Paris, her family members, and friends are dedicated to raising awareness and seeking a cure by participating in and donating to national Breast Cancer Awareness walk-a-thons. They participate in three cancer walks annually—in Dallas (where Paris’ mother was diagnosed), Philadelphia (Mother’s Day), and southern New Jersey.

Paris had seen participants wear pink tutus at various cancer walks and thought the garb added some fun and levity to the events. For the past several years, she has designed and crafted tutus for herself, family, and friends (although Paris’ brother, Robert, has yet to be convinced to wear one).

SJRA plans to frame the tutu and rotate its display in several of its 12 locations!