OETA and the American Cancer Society have launched a statewide community engagement initiative to explore the history, science and survivor community surrounding Oklahoma’s experience of cancer.
The project was developed to work in conjunction with the spring premiere of a new PBS documentary from iconic filmmaker Ken Burns (The Dust Bowl, The Civil War, Baseball). CANCER: THE EMPEROR OF ALL MALADIES, premiering March 30-April 1 at 7 p.m. on OETA, focuses on the past, present and future of cancer.
“The American Cancer Society is proud to be a partner of Cancer: The Emperor of All Maladies documentary and the Oklahoma Cancer Project,” stated Lesa Foster, senior director of community engagement for the American Cancer Society. “Through these partnerships, the American Cancer Society aims to increase awareness about the impact the Society has and is making against cancer in Oklahoma. Together, with our supporters, we’re working to help save lives each and every day from cancer.”
Dan Schiedel, OETA executive director, said the partnership with the American Cancer Society will help OETA ensure the film creates a meaningful impact beyond the broadcast, including connecting patients and families to critical local resources and sharing the compelling stories of Oklahomans who have experienced cancer.
THE OKLAHOMA CANCER PROJECT effort includes screenings and panel discussions across the state, locally produced content, customized classroom materials, an interactive story wall where patients, survivors, care providers and families can share experiences and connect with the cancer community and a comprehensive project web site that will feature event details and community resources.
Free community events will be held across the state in March, including March 5 at Oklahoma City University, March 7 at Cameron University in Lawton, March 12 at the Goddard Center in Ardmore and March 26 at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. Each event includes an advanced screening of Burns’ Cancer film, a Q&A with local cancer survivors and cancer experts, plus resources for patients and families.
All events are free and open to the public. Seating is limited and reservations are recommended. Visit oeta.tv/cancer to reserve seats and to access more information about Cancer: The Emperor of All Maladies and the Oklahoma Cancer Project.