Be Aware Foundation and Michael Bolton Team Up to Encourage Women to Fight Breast Cancer Through Early Detection and Research

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Be Aware Foundation is hosting their first annual concert series – Songs For Hope – with multi-Grammy® Award winning artist and this season's "Dancing with the Stars" contestant Michael Bolton, to raise awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer and clinical research.  The evening will also feature performances by multi-Grammy Award winning R&B musician Brian McKnight, and contemporary jazz artist Mindi Abair and Southern California broadcasting icon, Fritz Coleman, will serve as master of ceremony for the evening. The concert, which is free to the public, will be held at The Grove Los Angeles on Monday, September 20, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.  

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States.  Approximately 207,000 new cases are expected this year – as are more than 39,000 deaths, which makes breast cancer the second leading cause of cancer death in women.  

"Although advances are being made in the prevention, detection and treatment of breast cancer, it's important to call attention to the message that early detection and research helps saves lives," said John West, M.D., chairman, Be Aware Foundation.  "Through monthly self-exams, annual screening mammograms and keeping their health a priority, the survival rate for women with breast cancer is greater than 95% when detected early."

"This is a disease that continues to impact the lives of so many women and families across the country.  I am honored to lend my support to this initiative to promote breast cancer education," commented Michael Bolton.

Immediately following the concert, the Be Aware Foundation will also be hosting a star-studded fundraising reception featuring a silent auction.  Proceeds from the reception and silent auction will benefit the Foundation's clinical research at more than seven comprehensive breast care centers throughout Southern California.  

Paul Colacchio, event producer noted, "We are extremely grateful to have such talented musical artists support this important cause and help us kick-off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  The Songs For Hope event will raise funds for the Foundation's research and community outreach programs that will support women with breast cancer."

About the Be Aware Foundation

Founded in 2004 by Tanja Cebula, a cancer survivor and Dr. John West, the Be Aware Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving women's lives by ensuring that breast cancer is diagnosed at its earliest stage.  The Foundation's goal is to motivate and inspire women to consistently follow our early detection guidelines.  This year the Foundation will be dedicating resources and funds to conduct clinical research with the greatest potential to impact the fight against breast cancer.  To learn more, visit www.beawarefoundation.org.

SOURCE Be Aware Foundation