HOLLAND, Mich., July 26, 2024 — About one in eight women will face a diagnosis of breast cancer in her lifetime and research shows that early detection is crucial in the fight against breast cancer. Unfortunately, the cost of mammograms can be a barrier for many women, which can prevent women from getting the screenings they need. To help alleviate this, two organizations are coming together for the annual Big Red Classic Women’s Ta Ta Tourney 2024 on Friday, August 2, with all proceeds benefiting Holland Hospital’s Breast Care Fund.
“Every cast and hook set at the Big Red Classic Women's Ta Ta Tourney translates directly into lifesaving care for women in our community,” said Colleen Perdok, fund development coordinator at Holland Hospital. “This event not only raises crucial funds for the Breast Care Fund but also raises awareness about this vital program, ensuring women know it's there for them when they need it most.”
Since its inception, the Holland Hospital Breast Care Fund has worked to ensure women along the lakeshore have access to breast care services by removing financial barriers that may deter them from seeking care. Holland Hospital aims to connect uninsured and underinsured women in West Michigan with free mammograms and related diagnostic testing and treatment services. The money raised during the Ta Ta Tourney helps provide early detection services that detect cancer in its earliest and most treatable stage.
“Renewing our partnership with Holland Hospital for the Big Red Classic was an easy decision,” said Traci Sylte, secretary at Big Red Classic. “Keeping the funds here allows us to directly impact the women in our own community. We're stronger together, and this collaboration lets us make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.”
The Breast Care Fund goes beyond the initial mammogram, providing financial assistance for other necessary procedures such as ultrasounds and biopsies. This comprehensive approach empowers women to prioritize their health without worrying about the cost.
“One of the most difficult things is when patients without financial resources don't come to receive care,” shared Susan Ervine, MD, breast care medical director at Holland Hospital. “They may wait until they experience a clinical problem, and their breast cancer may be more difficult to treat. The Women’s Ta Ta Tourney is an important way to get the word out about the Breast Care Fund so we can help women access care when they need it.”
Since 2015, the Breast Care Fund has provided 730 screening mammograms, 315 diagnostic mammograms, and 616 follow-up services, including MRI, biopsy, and pathology. Since the partnership began in 2021, the Ta Ta Tourney has donated $51,000 to Holland Hospital’s Breast Care Fund.
The Women’s Ta Ta Tourney fishing tournament begins in the morning at Yacht Basin Marina in Holland and ends at 1:30 p.m. The afternoon includes a weigh-in and will also feature an awards ceremony, which begins at 5:30 p.m. and includes brief remarks from both organizations. Formed in 2009, Big Red Classic, a subset of the Big Red Foundation, is a non-profit organization with a mission of improving the fishery in Lake Michigan while giving back to the community.
Holland Hospital encourages women in West Michigan to prioritize their health and take advantage of these free services. Women simply need to call (616) 355-3865 or visit hollandhospital.org/freebreastscreenings to apply. Applicants must be over the age of 40 and have a primary care provider. To register for the Women’s Ta Ta Tourney, visit bigredclassic.com. Registration is open through August 1 with a $100 entry fee.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT
Jessica Meldrum, MS, APR
jmeldrum@hollandhospital.org
July 26, 2024