Human Resources Blog

Honoring Cancer Survivors and Supporting Prevention

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Reflecting on Resilience

Yesterday, June 1, communities across the country came together to recognize National Cancer Survivors Day.  A time to honor those who have faced cancer with strength, acknowledge their journeys, and renew our commitment to early detection and support.

At Missouri State University, we recognize the important role we each play in fostering awareness, prevention, and care.

Support Through Mercy Cancer Center

Whether in treatment or long into survivorship, ongoing support is critical. Mercy’s Cancer Center in Springfield provides compassionate, coordinated care through patient and family resources that include:

  • Oncology Nurse Navigators, Registered Dietitians, and Social Workers

  • Spiritual Care Chaplains offering emotional and spiritual support

  • Cancer Classes and Support Groups|O’Reilly Cancer Center Classes and Support Groups
    Mercy Cancer Center|2055 S. Fremont Ave.
    1st Floor | Ste. 1000 | Support Room

    • Men’s Cancer Coffee Club
      Meets every Tuesday from 7 to 8 a.m.
      Men of all ages with all types of cancer can join for support and education.
      Survivorship Class Series
      Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 4 to 5 p.m.
      All cancer survivors are welcome to learn about various survivorship topics every month.

Screening Saves Lives

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.—but it is also highly treatable with routine screening.

  • Adults at average risk should begin screening at age 45.

    • Colonoscopy: The most thorough option, allowing doctors to detect and remove polyps before they turn cancerous. Mercy provides expert colonoscopy services—learn more here.
    • Stool-Based Tests (e.g., Cologuard®): A convenient, non-invasive option for at-home testing.

  • Missouri State University is currently below benchmark screening rates, making awareness even more important for our campus community.

Breast Cancer

Regular mammograms are key to early detection. Mobile screening opportunities include:

  • Ozarks Healthcare Mobile Mammography on the West Plains campus:

    • June 25 and October 29.

    • Call 417-257-5959 to schedule.

  • Mercy Mammogram Bus on the MSU Springfield campus:

    • September 15, October 16, and November 17

    • Call 417-820-2790 to schedule

Covered Wellness Screenings

💡 Covered at 100%: Colonoscopies and Mammograms are payable at 100% under the MSU health plan when performed by an in-network provider.

🩺 Voluntary Benefit Reminder: Both are eligible services for the annual wellness benefit under MSU’s voluntary Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity plans.

 

Moving Forward

As we reflect on National Cancer Survivors Day, let’s carry forward a spirit of hope, support, and prevention. Celebrate the survivors around you, encourage a friend or colleague to get screened, and explore the many resources available to you and your loved ones.