'A Cure for Hope' gala raises over $146,000 for cancer fight | Community Spirit

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KFVS) - The American Cancer Society's annual gala, "A Cure for Cape," raised $146,374 on August 25 for the society's cancer-fighting efforts.

According to Saint Francis Medical Center, this is a 36 percent increase from last year's event and more than double the funds raised two years ago.

“The American Cancer Society is extremely grateful to Saint Francis for sponsoring the last two annual galas and to all the local businesses, private donors and volunteers who gave so much of themselves to make these events such a resounding success,” said Kelli Schenimann, community manager of development for the American Cancer Society. “The funds raised from the gala directly support the American Cancer Society’s mission of eliminating cancer as a major health concern in Cape Girardeau and beyond. Year after year, the tremendous generosity of our friends in Cape Girardeau empowers us to keep up the fight.” 

This year’s gala, the 25th annual, featured the theme of “Lights. Camera. Cure!” and furthered Saint Francis’ mission to “shine a light” on the fight against cancer, particularly breast cancer. Saint Francis’ annual Pink Up Cape campaign raises funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. Additionally, the Dig for Life program, a joint effort of Saint Francis and Southeast Missouri State University, promotes the importance of early breast cancer detection year-round by providing 400 free mammograms every year to area women who otherwise could not afford them.

“Although Saint Francis is honored to be the presenting sponsor of the American Cancer Society’s annual gala, credit for the event’s incredible success should go to the local businesses and individuals who advance the cause of cancer awareness through their time and contributions,” said Marilyn Curtis, MSA, vice president of professional services at Saint Francis. “Through efforts such as this gala, Pink Up Cape and Dig for Life, as well as the advanced technology and medical breakthroughs at Saint Francis’ Cancer Institute, we are proud to see so many people in Cape Girardeau coming together to eradicate cancer.”

Saint Francis Medical Center's Cancer Institute, affiliated with MD Anderson Physicians Network, offers patients throughout the five-state region comprehensive oncology services.

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