It is not too late to recognize those who have battled a cancer that often goes unnoticed.

March is Colorectal Cancer awareness month and Schneck Medical Center are recognizing those who have suffered and survived as well as promote awareness and screenings in the community through their Sparks of Strength ceremony.

On Fridays, Schneck employees wear blue, the color that represents colorectal cancer awareness.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, but if caught early colorectal cancer cases are curable. Thanks to colorectal cancer screenings, polyps can be found and removed before they turn into cancer and is easier to cure when found earlier on.

Those that are aged 45 or older or have risk factors such as smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and heavy alcohol use should talk to a physician about a colonoscopy.

A colonoscopy is an exam that allows a doctor to look closely at the inside of the colon and rectum. The doctor looks for any abnormalities in the colon or polyps that could be a sign of cancer. Polyps are small growths that, over time, can become cancer. The doctor uses a colonoscope-a thin, flexible, lighted tube that has a tiny video camera on the end. It is used to remove polyps and or take colon biopsies.

“With our expert team of endoscopists, anesthesiologists, nurses, and support staff, the colonscopy procedure is super safe and most find it smooth and easy to come in and complete,” said Tyler Wessel, ambulatory care services manager for the hospital. “We have recently increased our capacity by adding more procedure room capacity, and more of these wonderful professionals.”

Other forms of pre-screenings include Cologuard and Colocare which Schneck provides information on.

Blue tea lights were passed out among staff to represent a spark of strength for loved ones and encourage those to get a screening.

“Now you can then ‘pass the torch on’,” Wessel said.

A moment of silence was taken to honor those who have been touched by the cancer and remember those who were lost to the disease.

During the remainder of March it can be vital to be a spark of strength to others during this time.