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Sunday, Jul. 26, 2009

Tri-Citians can join breast cancer fight

By Sue Nagamoto, In Focus

Over a decade ago, the 18-Hole ladies at the Meadow Springs Country Club formed a local chapter of the nation's most prominent breast cancer organization, the Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Today, the group is building on an impressive record of accomplishments in this important fight against cancer, symbolized by a running pink ribbon.

Breast cancer affects nearly everyone, either directly or indirectly. According to the American Cancer Society, it remains one of the leading causes of death in women.

For the 18-Hole ladies, the fight is personal. More than 10 percent of the 95 ladies in our association are breast cancer survivors.

I was recently privileged to meet with several of these remarkable women. During our meeting, each lady told her story, and all the stories became one - one of courage, love, hope and optimism.

Together, they represent why it's so important to continue working to end this disease.

Breast cancer rates are climbing. About one in eight women will be diagnosed with the disease. Men and even children as young as 10 have also been its victims.

The good news is that death rates have dropped since 1990, thanks in part to millions of volunteers working with Susan G. Komen for the Cure and other charities.

Komen was established in 1982 by Nancy Goodman Brinker in honor of her sister, Susan Goodman Komen, who died of breast cancer.

Few cancer charities provide so much hope for life as Komen. It is the world's largest grass-roots network of breast cancer survivors, activists and participants, all fighting to raise breast cancer awareness, promote early detection, ensure quality care and ultimately to fulfill the Komen mission "to end breast cancer forever."

Komen operates with affiliates and partners worldwide. Most, including the one started at Meadow Springs, revolve around athletic and social activities.

The most notable events are Race for the Cure (walking and running) and Rally for the Cure (tennis and golf). Corporate sponsors add to the contributions.

Since its inception, Komen has given over $1.3 billion in grants, gifts and services to hospitals, research programs and individuals.

Tri-City donors have made significant contributions to that total.

Next month, the Meadow Springs Country Club 18-Hole ladies will sponsor Rally for the Cure, in conjunction with Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Members and guests make contributions by participating in golf, bridge or lunch. Corporate and individual sponsors are recruited.

Generous contributions by nonparticipants boost the total donation to Komen. Funds raised have increased from under $1,000 in 1996 to over $10,000 in recent years. Their combined efforts help bring the Komen mission to eradicate breast cancer closer to fruition.

You can help by making this year's event the best ever by signing up for the Aug. 18 golf scramble or by sponsoring a hole.

For more information, e-mail dm.cartmell@verizon. net or kslehew@yahoo.com or call 627-5425.

* Sue Nagamoto is a spokeswoman for the 18-Hole Association at Meadow Springs Country Club.

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