CIRCLEVILLE — Mayor Michelle Blanton officially proclaimed March as Kidney Cancer Awareness Month in the City of Circleville on Tuesday during Circleville Council Meeting, standing alongside local residents whose personal battle with the disease has sparked a major community fundraising effort.
A Personal Fight Becomes a Community Cause
The proclamation ceremony featured local residents Keith and Nicole Scott, who shared their journey following Keith’s diagnosis with renal cell carcinoma in early 2023. The diagnosis shifted their lives dramatically, leading them to partner with the Kidney Cancer Association to launch the city’s first-ever awareness 5K at Mary Virginia Crites Park last year.
The inaugural event was a massive success, raising $12,000 for kidney cancer research and support services.
“The community has given so much to us that we really wanted to give back,” Nicole Scott said during the presentation, specifically noting the vital support provided by OhioHealth and the local community throughout Keith’s treatment.
Alarming Local Statistics
During the reading of the proclamation, Mayor Blanton highlighted that kidney cancer remains one of the top ten most diagnosed cancers in the United States, but noted that Ohio and Pickaway County face higher-than-average risks.
Key statistics shared during the ceremony include:
- Higher Rates in Ohio: At 18.2 diagnoses per 1,000 people, Ohio sits above the national average.
- Pickaway County Impact: Kidney cancer accounts for 11% of all cancer cases in the county, making it the fifth most common new cancer diagnosis locally.
- Incidental Detection: Most cases are found “incidentally”—meaning the cancer is discovered through imaging intended for a completely different medical issue.
The Call for Awareness
The Mayor emphasized that kidney cancer is twice as common in men and carries higher risks for African Americans, American Indian natives, and veterans. With over 81,000 people expected to be newly diagnosed this year, the city is urging residents to be proactive about their health.
“Awareness is vital in saving lives right here in Circleville,” Mayor Blanton said. “I encourage everyone to observe Kidney Cancer Awareness Month and help support this vital cause.”
The Scotts plan to continue their advocacy work, utilizing their 5K event to ensure that Circleville remains a leader in local cancer awareness and research funding.
This years event planned for May 9,2026 at Mary Virginia Crites Hannah Park is found here: https://charity.pledgeit.org/f/h7eqg5mbke
