Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to keynote Dayton cancer symposium

NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is coming to Dayton as part of a Premier Health cancer symposium.

The free event, “Collaborating Against Cancer,” will happen from 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. July 15, at the Dayton Convention Center, 22 E. Fifth St.

Physicians and other health care providers will discuss advances in cancer care to patients, families and the general public, Premier said in an announcement Monday. The conference will also include separate sessions on recent cancer findings for doctors and clinicians.

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Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and six-time champion, will serve as the event’s keynote speaker.

The 70-year-old former NBA star was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia, lost his grandfather and uncle to colorectal cancer, and caner nearly took the life of his father, the hospital system said.

“Cancer is something that touches almost all of us, and this symposium is an excellent way to learn firsthand about exciting advances in cancer prevention, screenings, treatment and care,” Dr. Charles Bane, chair of the Premier Health Cancer Institute, said in Premier’s announcement.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is expected to sign copies of his newest book, “Coach Wooden and Me: Our 50-Year Friendship On and Off the Court,” at the event. Premier said that only books purchased at the July 15 event will be eligible for signing.

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Books will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, the company said. No other books or memorabilia will be able to be signed at the event.

Registration is required, and seating is limited. For more information and to register, go to www.premierhealth.com/cancerevent by July 6.

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