Hosted by Lora Lewis, Philadelphia Focus introduces you to the people and organizations making a difference in our community, from health and safety issues to education, employment, and even entertainment opportunities. Philadelphia Focus looks for solutions and positive action to make our region a better place to call home.
Paula Green, VP of Development at the American Cancer Society of Philadelphia; WMMR’s Markus Goldman and Andy Polovoy, Board Member of the ACS Bike-A-Thon, discussed the services of the American Cancer Society and its fundraising efforts. Ms Green gave us an overview of the work of ACS, including research, advocacy and direct patient services, including screenings, housing during treatment, transportation to appointments, and a 24/7 hotline number to discuss your diagnosis and options. We discussed the impact of COVID on services, treatment and screenings and the possible increase in deaths following the pandemic. Ms Green also discussed the disparity in care, treatment and outcome among Black and other ethnic communities, as well as by income, and efforts to correct this historic shortcoming. Markus and Andy discussed the annual Bikeathon and how it was started, growing from a few hundred bikes in 1972 to the 3,500+ expected this year. They discussed the path and the entertainment waiting at the end, as well as forming, joining or supporting a team. Andy talked about the other opportunities to support the ACS, through volunteering at their housing unit, driving patients or helping produce the Bikeathon itself.