SHIIP
MARCH 2022
The Coastal Buzz
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
C
olorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. It affects all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in
people ages 50 and older. Screening and early detection are vital. Medicare covers certain colorectal cancer screening services—ask a SHIIP counselor for
more information. Call Lead Case Manager/SHIIP Coordinator René Tarquinio at (910)754-6224. Colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable!
SHIIP VOLUNTEER COUNSELOR SPOTLIGHT: MIKE CARPER
M
ike Carper moved to Brunswick County from West Virginia after retiring from a career in general management and banking. He is an Army veteran and served during the Vietnam War. He and his wife, Vivian, enjoy spending time with family and traveling both domestically and abroad. Mike joined the BSRI SHIIP program five years ago as a SHIIP volunteer counselor. Most of his volunteer hours are spent at the Calabash Center, but he is quick to help wherever it is needed. During the most recent Open Enrollment Period, Mike counseled 57 Medicare beneficiaries. When asked what he likes the most about being a SHIIP counselor, Mike quickly replied that he enjoys the people that he meets. He loves seeing the look on their face when they realize how much money they will save by changing their drug or Medicare Advantage plan. BSRI SHIIP is happy to have Mike as a part of our team! —René Tarquinio Lead Case Manager/SHIIP Coordinator
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