BY JUSTIN MCCALLUM

State Senator Gustavo Rivera, representing the 33rd Senate District, joined  Montefiore Medical Center doctors and officials to help spread word on colon health in possibly the most fun way on Friday – entering a mega-size, mock-up colon.

“Although it does lend itself to a lot of humor, it’s actually a very serious issue,” Rivera told the Norwood News. “Colon cancer is a cancer that strikes people of color almost disproportionately, and most importantly it can be prevented.”

Rivera hoped that the event would help educate community members about colorectal issues and remove any stigma associated with getting a colonoscopy, saying that he is reaching the age of regular, routine check-ups .

“We’re here to tell folks this is not something to be afraid of, it’s something you should absolutely do, get screened, and get screened early” he said.

Rivera applauded Montefiore for their century of work in the neighborhood, as well as the chance to show off his “nerdy side.”

“I’m very happy to be here today continuing my partnership with the Montefiore Center on issues of health in the Bronx,” he said. “This is just one of the efforts I’ve had with them over the last couple years, they’re just as committed to making the Bronx healthy as I am.”