Spending time outdoors is one of the best parts of summer, but too much exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase the risk of skin cancer. To help make sun protection more accessible, Mercy Health has partnered with the Clark County Park District, Young's Jersey Dairy and the Simon Kenton Pathfinders to install 14 free sunscreen dispensers at popular outdoor destinations throughout Clark and Champaign counties.
The initiative is part of Mercy Health's ongoing commitment to cancer prevention and community wellness. By providing free sunscreen in places where residents and visitors spend time outdoors, the collaboration between community partners encourages healthy habits while raising awareness about skin cancer prevention, early detection and the comprehensive cancer care available close to home.
"Preventing cancer begins long before someone needs treatment," said Lisa Gibson, director of oncology services at Mercy Health. "This initiative is about making healthy choices easier for our community. We hope these sunscreen dispensers encourage people to protect their skin."
According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. More than 5 million cases are diagnosed each year, and an estimated 104,960 new cases of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, are expected to be diagnosed in 2026. While melanoma accounts for only a small percentage of skin cancer diagnoses, it causes the majority of skin cancer deaths. Most skin cancers are linked to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, making sunscreen, protective clothing and seeking shade important prevention strategies.
The sunscreen dispensers have been installed at the following locations:
- Buck Creek Trail at Veterans Park Amphitheater
- Buck Creek Trail at the Old Reid Park Trailhead on Croft Road
- Little Miami Scenic Trail at the Beatty Station Trailhead
- Simon Kenton Trailhead at Villa Road
- Snyder Park Splash Pad and Playground Area
- Snyder Park Gardens
- Eagle City Soccer Fields
- Carleton Davidson Stadium
- Young's Jersey Dairy
- Simon Kenton Trail in Champaign County
"We're excited to partner with Mercy Health on an initiative that helps people enjoy the outdoors safely," said John Young, CIEIO at Young's Jersey Dairy. "Every year, we welcome thousands of families to Young's, and providing easy access to sunscreen is another way we can help promote healthy habits while supporting the well-being of our guests and our community."
Leann Castillo, director of the Clark County Park District, said the partnership complements the district's mission to encourage healthy, active lifestyles.
"Our parks and trails are places where people come to exercise, explore nature and spend time with family and friends," Castillo said. "Adding sunscreen dispensers is a simple but meaningful way to help visitors protect themselves while enjoying everything our parks have to offer."
Jim Cook, past president of the Simon Kenton Pathfinders, said the initiative supports the organization's commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for trail users.
"The Simon Kenton Path welcomes cyclists, walkers and runners of all ages throughout the year," Cook said. "We're proud to partner on a project that encourages people to enjoy the outdoors while taking an important step to protect their health."
In addition to using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, Mercy Health encourages residents to wear protective clothing, seek shade during peak sunlight hours and reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Individuals should also perform regular skin self-exams, schedule an annual skin check with a dermatologist, and monitor for new or changing moles, spots or sores that do not heal. Any concerning changes should be discussed with a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
"Skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Simple preventive measures like wearing sunscreen and recognizing changes in your skin can make a significant difference," said Gibson. "We want people to enjoy everything our community has to offer while taking steps to protect their health for years to come.”
To learn more about oncology services available through Mercy Health — Springfield, visit mercy.com.