The Berrien County Cancer Service (BCCS) will hold Cancer Care Awareness Week Sept. 12 and 13 in Berrien County.

As a non-profit nursing organization, the mission of the BCCS is “to provide compassionate in home skilled nursing care and supportive resources for those affected by cancer or related illnesses in Southwest Michigan.”

Since 1948, the community BCCS serves has provided the funds through United Way, donations, and fundraisers so that our oncology nurses are able to meet the nursing needs of those with cancer at no cost to the patients. Because BCCS is community funded and does not receive any insurance or Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement, its nurses are able to make as many visits as needed. All donations stay local for local cancer patients.

The purpose of Cancer Care Awareness weekend is to increase awareness of the services BCCS provides and to honor and support those who are going through or who have gone through the challenges of cancer.

The weekend program will begin at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 at the Niles-Buchanan YMCA, which is located at 905 Front St., Niles..

This program will celebrate cancer survivors through individual recognition and a lap near Plym Park. At 4 p.m., the Olove Colcord 5K Family Fun Run/Walk will start from the Niles-Buchanan YMCA with volunteers to cheer on participants.

On Sunday, Sept. 13, the BCCS will hold its 20th Annual Bike Ride. It will begin and end at the Berrien County Cancer Service office at 7301 Red Arrow Highway in Stevensville.

Several scenic routes are available for riders of all skill levels. The 15- and 25-mile routes are family oriented with flat terrain through farmland and vineyards with some rolling hills. The 42-mile and 100 kilometer routes have more challenging terrain with steeper hills, farmland and woodland scenic views. Riders start the routes between 7:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. and must be off the routes by 2 p.m.

There are SAG Stops, healthy snacks and some driver support to keep the riders going.

A bike raffle at noon, with a bike donated by Mike Jones of Cycle and Fitness of St. Joseph, will add to the festivities.

As a special emphasis, the BCCS will recognize September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

People can register online at bccancerservice.org.