Longport Launches Cancer Protection Device You Can Wear
By Walt Hunter
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- If you are one of the 1st 5,000 people to buy a beach tag in Longport this year, you will also get a free wristband designed to warn you about the dangers of sun and deadly melanoma cancer.
The program is the first of its kind run by a municipal government, according to Mayor Nicholas Russo.
He said the clear rubber bracelets react to ultraviolet rays turning purple, a warning to cover up and use sunscreen. Melanoma, he pointed out, was the deadliest cancer for women between 25 and 30.
The bracelets even detect UV rays on cloudy days when the sun seems hidden, but still presents a threat.
The program was created by the Tara Miller Melanoma Foundation, started by the 30 year old as she valiantly battled the cancer that would take her life. The Foundation gave out thousands of bracelets last summer, according to Tara's father George, who says Longport is now expanding the prevention and awareness effort.
Mayor Russo says the cost of the bracelets is being absorbed by AtlantiCare, so there is no cost to taxpayers.
The Tara Miller Foundation is sponsoring the 3D Annual "Make The Best Of It Bash" at the Tropicana Casino resort to fund melanoma research on Friday, June 17, from 7 to 10 p.m.
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