Instead of sharing stories of misfortune while passing around the tissues the Ventura College cancer group met to promote awareness by telling jokes, sharing a few laughs, and encouraging creativity.
Lisa Barreto, the Ventura College alumna who founded the VC Breast Cancer Education and Advocacy group in 2002, said it is an assemblage for everyone.
“The purpose of E & A is not just for those who are affected by cancer,” said Barreto. “But it’s for everyone in the community. We provide awareness in ways other than, ‘Here’s my sad story.'”
Jan. 25 was the first of the Education and Advocacy meetings for the semester. The group meets monthly on Wednesdays 7p.m.-8:30p.m. in the campus center conference room with guest speakers and a theme for each meeting. At the end of the year, the group provides a scholarship opportunity for survivors who want to return to school.
Barreto founded the group at the suggestion of the Women’s Re-entry Center after she was diagnosed with breast cancer during her third semester at Ventura College. Education and Advocacy group consists of mostly women from the community and students. Together, they do hospital visits, community service, donations, and breakfast at Hill Street Café on Saturdays. Last semester, they donated 22 books to the VC library for a newly established breast cancer section. And with the help of the VC Foundation office and VC President Robin Calote, the group gave a $10,000 scholarship to a member who had survived cancer.
The theme of January’s meeting was “Unleash the Goddess in you through the arts”. The two guests, artist Dr. Karen L. Brown and photographer Lesley Daley shared their works as examples of how people can let themselves get lost in the endeavors that excite them creatively.
The next meeting is Feb. 15. Guest speaker George Reid, a VC counselor, will be discussing different techniques regarding the theme “Loving yourself”. For more information on the VC’s Breast Cancer Education and Advocacy group visit their website Hometown.aol.com/lpaarma/cancer.html or contact the VC Women’s Re-entry Center at 654-6365.
