Staff, incarcerated rally to fight cancer

Across California, CDCR/CCHCS staff and the incarcerated population joined forces to fight cancer and find a cure. Many laced up their shoes to walk for a cure for cancer while others held fundraisers to benefit families impacted by cancer. From breast cancer awareness walks to wearing pink patches, October is a time to help in the fight against cancer.

Editor’s note: This story will be updated as more submissions are received.

Soledad raises $20k for cancer research

Incarcerated people raised more than $20,000 for cancer research as part of the Correctional Training Facility’s (CTF) annual Relay for Life Cancer Walk. The Oct. 19 community event brought together CTF staff, incarcerated individuals, and volunteers to support the American Cancer Society. This partnership has been in place since 2016.

The event featured a variety of games to entertain and unite attendees, the American Red Cross band filled the air with music, and car enthusiasts enjoyed a display of approximately 20 show cars. Staff members enjoyed a dunk booth, barbecue lunch, and inspiring moments occurred when volunteer cancer survivors shared their powerful stories of struggle and triumph.

BIGGER PICTURE: Since January 2024, CTF staff and the incarcerated population have collectively raised $107,222 for charitable causes. This year’s Relay for Life event was one of the largest fundraisers ever at CTF, with more than 700 incarcerated participants, 30 staff members and 15 volunteers.

“We hope to inspire further involvement and support from media and community members to help us make an even bigger impact.”

Warden Edward J. Borla

Warden Edward J. Borla said events like these are beneficial for everyone involved.

“We are honored to continue our support for the American Cancer Society through the Relay for Life event,” he said. “It’s a special day that not only raises funds for cancer research but also strengthens bonds within our community. This event is a testament to the resilience and compassion of our staff, the incarcerated individuals, and the community.”

Celebrating life while fighting cancer at Correctional Training Facility

“The event was a resounding success, bringing the community together for a day of fun, solidarity, and support,” said Lt. Wilbert Landrum, the institution’s public information officer. “The Cancer Survivor Walk underscored the powerful message of the day that together we can fight cancer and celebrate life.”

According to those who’ve lost people to cancer, the Relay for Life is a way to help heal.

“When we wrap up our Relay for Life event here at CTF, and everyone heads home, I think about the people we’ve lost to cancer,” said Brandon Packer, an incarcerated person who took part in the event. “(I lost) my uncle, who was like a dad to me. This event helps all of us here come together for a good reason: to fight back against cancer and raise some money to help beat it. It’s a way for us to do something positive, giving back to the community, even from inside here.”

Submitted by Correctional Training Facility, Soledad

Ironwood veterans raise money for Cancer Resource Center

Ironwood State Prison Veteran’s Group held a fundraiser to benefit the Blythe Cancer Resource Center. The event kicked off with live music, the presentation of colors and speeches from management, incarcerated people, and staff from the Blythe Cancer Resource Center.

Pink cookies were available for the incarcerated population to purchase on each facility, with a portion of proceeds going toward charity. Each facility also showed support by creating banners which they held proudly during the cancer walk.

The Blythe Cancer Resource Center is a non-profit organization created to promote the wellbeing of all people whose lives have been touched by cancer. The organization offers support, education, and encouragement. All services provided by this organization are free of charge.

Learn more about the resource center.

Ironwood State Prison staff support cancer resource center

Ironwood State Prison participated in the 17th Annual Blythe Cancer Resource Center “Steps for the Cure” event Nov. 2. The Ironwood State Prison Employees’ Association played a key role, raising over $14,000 for the cause.

The employee’s association collected over $6,600 in donated gift cards for a drawing. Additional funds were raised through ticket sales for the Gift Card Tree drawing, Pink and Blue Patch items, and Pink Patch polo shirts and t-shirts.

All proceeds will be donated to the Blythe Cancer Resource Center to aid in their ongoing efforts to support cancer patients and raise awareness. The event highlighted the continued commitment of Ironwood State Prison Employees’ Association and the community to making a difference in the fight against cancer.

Submitted by Lt. C. Whalen

CIW staff hosts mammography booth

Thanks to the efforts staff, California Institution for Women (CIW) hosted a mammography booth to educate patients on the importance of early detection of breast cancer.

Regional Senior Radiologic Technologist Tiffany Schneidmiller, originator of CIW’s mammography program, and Recreational Therapist Cassandra Harris hosted the booth. Their booth was part of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Durable Medical Equipment event.

The booth educated people about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and ways of prevention, including how to perform a self-exam. They also discussed the importance of regular mammograms.

Submitted by California Correctional Health Care Services

CIM hosts inaugural More Than Pink Walk

Working together, California Institution for Men (CIM) at Chino and Susan B. Komen Foundation brought the inaugural More Than Pink Walk into the institution.

Event organizer Joey Rodriguez, with the assistance of Sgt. C. Becerra, other staff members and incarcerated persons, helped Facility A raise money for the foundation.

“Cancer touches so many families across the country – including our CIM family. It is up to all of us to continue fighting for a cure and to ensure that everyone has access to the quality care they need,” said organizers. “CIM will continue fighting and bringing attention to the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide, breast cancer. CIM is proud and grateful to all who participated by running and/or donating.”

Watch the video:

Story by Lt. I. Vera
Photos by Ryan Herrera, CIM Television Specialist

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