History

S.T.A.R.S. was incorporated as a Washington nonprofit corporation on May 20, 2008 for the purpose of continuing the work started by the Colorectal Cancer Task Force (the “Task Force”), a committee comprised of over 13 public agencies, individuals and nonprofit organizations, including the Washington State, City of Seattle and King County Departments of Health. The Task Force, formed in 2001, is a committee of the Washington Comprehensive Cancer Control Partnership, a public–private partnership working to reduce cancer incidence and mortality. The Task Force was charged with reducing mortality from colorectal cancer in Washington by increasing colorectal cancer screening and increasing the capacity of the health care system to perform high-quality colorectal cancer screening.

In 2005, Anita Mitchell and Carmen Mitchell (not related), stage 4 colon cancer survivors and members of the Task Force, began contemplating the formation of an independent nonprofit organization to educate the public about colorectal cancer screening and the role of family history.  Both Anita and Carmen were diagnosed with cancer in their early 40's, well below the age of 50 when routine screening is recommended.  They had family history of colon cancer, but were unaware of this information until after they were diagnosed.  Had they been armed with this important knowledge, they could have been screened in time to either prevent the cancer from developing or detect it at an earlier, more treatable stage.  Their mission was to raise awareness about screening and family history of colon cancer to prevent other from developing this disease.  Unfortunately, Carmen Mitchell passed away on March 8, 2006, before her dream could be realized.  In Carmen's memory, Anita Mitchell created "Dress in Blue for Colon Cancer Awareness Day."  In 2009, S.T.A.R.S. partnered with the Colon Cancer Alliance to make this awareness event nation-wide. 

On March 9, 2010, Doreen Soliman was awarded the first STARS advocacy award for her outstanding contribution in outreach and education to the public about colorectal cancer.  Doreen was a stage 4 rectal cancer survivor for ten years and in active treatment for 8 of those years.  Doreen's activities included supporting Dress in Blue, holding awareness events at Stevens and North Star Hospitals; and media and newspaper interviews and health talks.  Doreen also provided patient support at the Wellness House in Yakima, including educational lectures on colon cancer.  Doreen lost her battle with colorectcal cancer on May 20, 2010.