March 2025

Jay Leno to Headline Our Gala & Auction—Helping to Save Lives Through Early Cancer Detection

Legendary comedian Jay Leno will take the stage at DetecTogether’s Sweet 16 Gala & Auction on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Bancroft School in Worcester, MA. This milestone event promises an unforgettable night of laughter, live entertainment, and a shared mission: saving lives through early cancer detection.

Joining Leno as master of ceremonies is award-winning news anchor Vanessa Welch, ensuring an unforgettable evening filled with energy and inspiration. Guests will enjoy fine cuisine, live music, dancing, and an exclusive auction, all in support of DetecTogether’s life-saving mission.

"Recognizing symptoms early and taking action is key to surviving cancer. At DetecTogether, we save lives by teaching and empowering people to do this. We are honored to have Jay Leno and Vanessa Welch join us in championing this life-saving mission and inspiring action to help make an even greater impact," said Tricia Laursen, President/Executive Director of DetecTogether.

🎟️ Don’t miss this incredible night!

SECURE YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

Updates

Colorectal Cancer Month: The Wake-Up Call That Saved Mike’s Life!

As a veteran and firefighter, Mike Fagan was used to pushing through anything. But when persistent symptoms—abdominal discomfort and frequent bathroom trips—refused to go away, something clicked.

Mike remembered the 3 Steps Detect class he took with DetecTogether. That knowledge made all the difference.

"DetecTogether's 3 Steps Detect plan taught me to listen to my body and recognize when symptoms last more than two weeks. It pushed me to call my doctor and advocate for myself. That decision saved my life."

March is Colorectal Cancer Month, and It’s One of the Most Preventable Cancers—If You Take Action

Listen to your body - Pay attention to health changes that don't go away.
Know your risk - Family history and lifestyle matter
Get screened - Early detection saves lives, and if you are age 45+ or notice subtle and persistent health changes earlier, talk to a doctor about the best screening for you.

🚨 Colorectal Cancer Rates are Rising in Young Adults. Would you minimize and ignore subtle and persistent health changes? Don't do it.

Mike took action - and it saved his life.

WATCH MIKE'S STORY

Fit for Work, Ready for Life—Train for Early Detection

Join the Shrewsbury, MA Police Department, which is taking action—not just in service of its community but also in service of its own health! Seventy personnel completed DetecTogether’s 3 Steps Detect early cancer detection training and walked away more informed and empowered to be their own best health advocates.

They told us:

“Self-advocacy is key—especially with a family history of cancer.”
“This training gave real insight into early detection.”
“A powerful reminder to check on my health.”

The most Important tool in your holster? You.

When it comes to your health, the most important tool in your holster isn't on your belt—it's you. We're proud to support first responders who are taking charge of their health. Because knowing what to look for—and when to speak up—can save your life.

FREE FIRST RESPONDER TRAINING

Timing Is Everything

Most aches, pains, and minor issues heal in two weeks—but what if they don’t? Just like how you wouldn’t let a small fire turn into a five-alarm blaze, you shouldn't ignore your health either.

Learn the 2-week rule: If symptoms stick around longer than that, it's time to take action. Early detection can make all the difference. Don’t wait—your health deserves attention!

IMPORTANCE OF THE 2-WEEK RULE

From Start to Finish, Tina Runs to Make a Difference!

From the Falmouth Road Race to the Boston Marathon, Tina isn’t just running—she’s racing to save lives! 🏃‍♀️💙

Tina has been part of Team DetecTogether for years, running for a cause that means so much to her. She ran Falmouth in 2019 and just conquered the Boston Marathon in 2024 for DetecTogether! Working alongside the Coghlin family, she’s seen firsthand the impact of early cancer detection—and she’s not stopping now.

Every mile she runs fuels life-saving education, helping more people catch cancer early when it’s most treatable. Let’s rally behind Tina and our incredible charity athletes as they run with purpose!

SUPPORT TINA

Events

Worcester Fire Academy Training - DetecTogether

30 Years In AND 30 Years Out

For firefighters, readiness is everything—on and off the job. The Worcester (MA) Fire Academy is making sure their recruits are prepared not just for the fires they’ll face but for life.

By learning DetecTogether’s 3 Steps Detect, these recruits are taking control of their health, ensuring they can enjoy 30 years in the fire service AND 30 years out, in retirement.

Firefighters train for the unexpected. But cancer is a fight you don’t have to face unprepared.

BRING TO YOUR HOUSE

Learn From Others

Kris MacDonald

Colon Cancer, Diagnosed at 40

"Why didn’t my doctor catch this when I was in there just three weeks ago? Oh… probably because I didn’t mention the symptoms I had been experiencing.”