Sharsheret Supports will host an evening to positively influence one’s health now and for future generations. “Understand Cancer Risk: Genetics and More” will take place from 7 to 9 p.m.Tuesday, April 24 at the Jewish Community Center’s Staenberg Family Complex. The event features Suzanne Mahon, a genetics-certified nurse whose expertise includes cancer risk assessment, hereditary cancer syndromes, cancer prevention and early detection. Attendees will also hear from Lynne Kipnis, a clinical psychologist and a “previvor” who will share her personal journey. The presentation will be followed by a Q & A, and Mahon will be available following the program for personal inquiries.

The event will look at the increased cancer risk in the Jewish community, how to examine one’s family history, various options for genetic testing, misconceptions that can fuel confusion and new research in genetics. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required at nishmah.org or by calling the J’s registrar at 314-442-3111.

At 6 p.m. that evening, women in their 20s and 30s are invited for a free, pre-event dinner presented by Nerot: Young Women of Nishmah. Special guest Kathy Bearman, a licensed social worker, will lead a conversation focused on issues that relate to young women and cancer, such as assessing one’s risk, coping with early detection and supporting friends and family through cancer treatment. A kosher, dairy dinner will be served. RSVP required by April 17 to Simone Picker at [email protected] or 314-442-3166.

For more information on Sharsheret, visit nishmah.org or contact Debbi Braunstein, Sharsheret Supports Coordinator, 314-442-3266, [email protected].  Sharsheret and Nishmah are programs of the J.