President Janis Reinhardt called the meeting to order by asking for “one thing that makes a person trustworthy.”
Reinhardt gave the lesson on ”protect your skin from the sun.” She told of the three skin cancers that were the most common.
First she informed members of basal cell carcinoma, which is the most common. It is most common on fair skin people and develops after years of frequent sun exposure or indoor tanning. It can show up on the head, face, neck and arms but can be found on any parts of the body. Early diagnosis through self-examination is critical as basel cell carcinomas can grow deep and penetrate nerves and bones.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer and often looks like a firm bump, scaly patch, or a sore that will not heal. It can form on the rim of the ear, face, neck, arms, chest and back. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent deep growth and spreading.
Melanoma can develop within a mole or appear suddenly as a dark spot and tends to spread. Due to the fact that they spread, they are considered as the most serious. Nearly 20 Americans die from melanoma every day.
Suggested methods of protection are to seek shade, wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen daily and avoid tanning beds. Choose broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen that is 30 spf or more. Reinhardt said to not use expired sunscreen, and to use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed areas. Sunscreen should be applied 15-30 minutes before going outdoors, and reapplied every two hours.
Dues were collected from the members and members were reminded to turn in their community hours. The State FCE conference in Dodge City, Oct. 9-11, was discussed. Jackie Ward, Mary Dunn, Debbie Goodner and Janis Reinhardt all have signed up to go.
Discussion for a tree-decorating theme during the Chanute Art Gallery Parade of Trees was held, with Goodner planning the details Ward and Reinhardt bought articles on basket-making for a conference money-making project.
Those interested in more information about FCE can contact Sharon Carpenter at 620-431-8532.
