The importance of women making their own health care a priority will be the focus of the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) second annual Women Leading the Way to Wellness breakfast from 7:30 to 9:30am on November 18 at the Dolce Center in Norwalk. The breakfast, featuring speakers and community partners, is part of ACS’ movement to empower Fairfield County residents, local businesses and community leaders. Health-related professionals are invited to attend to learn more about cancer prevention, early detection for women, and honoring local women who have been instrumental in the fight against cancer.

Kitt Shapiro, the daughter of the late renowned singer and actress Eartha Kitt, will share her experience as a caregiver and her pursuit of “equilibrium” during and after her challenging family journey. Dr. Melinda Irwin of the Yale University School of Public Health and co-program leader of the Cancer Prevention and Control Research Program at Yale Cancer Center will discuss how lifestyle and behavioral factors influence cancer risk and survival rates.

“As the chief health officer of the family, women very often put the health of other family members and even family pets ahead of their own, often cancelling or delaying life-saving screenings and healthy activities because they are ‘too busy’ taking care of everyone else. We believe that caring for others does not have to keep women from prioritizing their own best health,” commented ACS’ Robin Flay.

This morning of wellness will also feature community partners, such as the Junior League of Stamford-Norwalk (JLSN), an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The ACS encourages attendees to take part in the JLSN’s walk immediately following the program.

The Women Leading the Way to Wellness breakfast is sponsored by Callari Auto Group, Camsan Electrical Contractors, Catherine Cleare Interiors, Ernst & Young, Marcis Selden Catering & Event Planning, Moffly Media, Norwalk Hospital, Purdue Pharma, Stamford Hospital, St. Vincent’s Medical Center and the Whittingham Family.

Visit TinyURL.com/ACSBreakfast to purchase tickets for $75 each. Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Cara Bauer, senior director of distinguished events. For more information, email [email protected] or call 781-420-6679. Location: Dolce Center, 32 Weed Ave, Norwalk.