BEAUMONT - Gift of Life celebrated its impact on Men's Health and Prostate Cancer Program recently with a Holiday Appreciation Luncheon to honor its many medical partners and community advocates.

"This year, Gift of Life reached more than 800 at-risk men providing free health screenings at four accessible locations," said Dr. Gwendolyn Lavalais, Gift of Life's medical director. "These screenings, which included prostate cancer tests and a comprehensive set of primary care evaluations, were made possible by dedicated, compassionate healthcare professionals who selflessly shared their time and expertise to support men of Southeast Texas."

The Program featured a special awards ceremony to recognize those who were influential to the delivery of care.

Awards were presented to Justin Doss, CEO of Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas, Ernie Hymel, MD, PhD; Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas Radiation Oncologist and Rudy Sotolongo, MD, Southeast Texas Cardiology Associates Founder.

"We are privileged to have the extraordinary accomplishments of these champions within our

community," said Gift of Life Executive Director Norma Sampson. "Their commitment to our cause represents what can be achieved when like-minded caring individuals come together with a shared vision to address the disparities affecting our region. Their selflessness fuels our mission, enabling us to continue advancing the health and wellness to those who need it most."

Gift of Life has provided 812 men with prostate cancer screenings along with primary care evaluations, and guidance to follow-up care for any abnormal results, in the Southeast Texas area this past year.

Since the program began, Gift of Life has diagnosed cancer in 81 men, with all diagnostic and treatment expenses fully covered by the organization.