WORCESTER, MA — The Worcester Red Sox, in partnership with Massachusetts Oncology Patients, Survivors & Supporters, will host “Strike Out: Head & Neck Cancer Awareness & Survivorship Night” on Wednesday, May 20, at Polar Park.
The awareness event will take place during the WooSox game at the stadium, located at 100 Madison St. The evening will include a special pregame recognition called “Voices at the Ballpark,” scheduled for 5:20 p.m.
The ceremony will honor head and neck cancer survivors and recognize members of the clinical community who support patients during and after treatment. Tickets are available here.
Organizers say the event is intended to bring greater awareness to survivorship and the lasting challenges many patients face after treatment ends.
More than 1,300 Massachusetts residents are diagnosed each year with oral cavity and throat cancers, often at advanced stages, acccording to organizers. Survivors can experience long-term effects that impact speech, nutrition, oral health, and overall quality of life.
“Voices at the Ballpark” also comes as advocates continue pushing for expanded access to medically necessary oral and dental care for head and neck cancer patients and survivors in Massachusetts, including support for House Bill 4553, which would require such coverage.
“For many survivors, the journey does not end when treatment ends,” Cathy Hapenney of MOPSS said in a statement. “This event brings those experiences into the open and helps others better understand what survivorship truly looks like.”
As part of the awareness initiative, WooSox infielder Mikey Romero shared a personal video message about losing his father to head and neck cancer and the impact the disease has on families. You can watch the video here.
MOPSS will also be recognized through the WooSox “Heart of Worcester” program, which highlights organizations making a difference in the community.
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