Philanthropy: February is National Cancer Prevention Month

When it comes to philanthropy we can help in so many ways and for so many different causes. We tend to think of helping coming in the way of service, but there are many other ways to help as well. One great philanthropy cause is through the prevention of cancer. This month being February and national cancer prevention month, a great way to increase awareness is by spreading ways to prevent the cause of cancer.

Thousands of cancer victims could be saved through good diet, exercise, and weight control. We all kind of know this logically in the back of our minds, but it is hard for many to implement those thoughts in our daily lives. The best way to spread that knowledge is not just by sharing that information with friends and family. Although that's a good start, we must all set the example and live the healthy lifestyle we want our loved ones to follow. As we live this lifestyle and share the benefits with others, they will want to follow our examples and do the same.

One of the best cancer prevention groups around is the Prevent Cancer Foundation. Research shows that only 5-10% of cancers are genetics and the rest is incurred through our environment. The PCF has the goal of helping more people in terms of awareness of how to live healthy and productive lifestyles. Nutrition and proper healthcare is huge in treating and most importantly, preventing cancer. Self examination is critical to the process and constantly re-evaluating our lives and looking to improve is huge. Friends and family can help!

Following the Super Bowl, there is always more opportunity to give of our time with less sporting events to watch. Football season is one of the times that it is easy to get consumed in selfish pleasures as we watch our teams march towards a National Championship. I am always impressed with how much charity work even the players do. I realize a lot of it is for their image, but still impressive to see them being so helpful in their communities. One day I hope we get an NFL team out here in SLC - Unlikely, but one can hope...

Ryan Van Wagenen is from Cottonwood Heights. Since retiring last year, Ryan has devoted the majority of his life to philanthropy here in the state and wants to raise awareness of all the great opportunities we have out there. One of his greatest goals is that we all make 2018 the year of giving in the valley.