Colon Cancer Coalition spreading awareness for colorectal cancer

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and this year, an estimated 2,300 Minnesotans will be diagnosed.

Erin Peterson, communication director for the Colon Cancer Coalition and cancer survivor Chris Bade, who was diagnosed in 2006 with Stage IV rectal cancer, joins 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS and speaks upon the awareness and activities for the public to participate in.

On March 9, nearly 70 civic, public and private organizations across the state will band together to turn Minnesota blue in March.

Edina-based Colon Cancer Coalition is leading the effort with help from the American Cancer Society to educate Minnesotans from all corners of the state about the importance of colorectal cancer screening and show support for patients, survivors, and caregivers.

The Minnesota business community and the general public are also invited to join the Monday, March 9 activities. Simply wear a favorite shade of blue or light-it-up with a blue lightbulb. Photos can be shared on Twitter or Instagram using #MNBlue.

On Thursday, March 12, colorectal cancer patients, survivors, and their families will join the health care community at the "Minnesota Blue Reception" at 6 p.m. in the Bullard Rainforest Auditorium at Como Zoo in St. Paul.

For more information about the Colon Cancer Coalition, click here.