The city of Lincoln Municipal Services staff, including the city street department, zoning office, and support staff, posed for their pink picture this week in front of these large pieces of equipment.

The 13 people in the picture look small compared to the truck and street sweeper. But take those vehicles away, and the group would dominate the photo.

Sometimes, a person diagnosed with cancer feels like the disease is larger than they are. They are frightened, and it all becomes overwhelming. When the fear is conquered, the person can say, "Cancer, I am larger than you, stronger than you, and you will not overwhelm me." The best way to remove that fear is by working with a team that helps the patient understand the options, plan the treatment, and will have an active role in the battle.

Choose that team carefully. If you feel uncomfortable with your doctor and the treatment plan, seek a second or third opinion. Winning the battle against cancer is about more than medicine. It is about how optimistic a patient is during the process, and that optimism starts with a medical team that is positive and reassuring.

Photo by Nila Smith      [Click on image for larger version]

October is Paint the Paper Pink Month for breast cancer awareness. Have you scheduled your pink shirt picture yet? If not, contact Karen Hargis at 217-737-7418

Heartland Community College - Lincoln Campus Director Jennifer Kirby was excited to join the Heartland Hawk on Thursday evening, welcoming guests to the annual Lincoln Night Out.  Kirby took over the director position earlier this year after the retirement of Kristi Powell. The evening was a fundraiser for the Heartland Community College Foundation and the first large event that Kirby has overseen as the campus director.