Golf Classic Raises $79K For Mather's Uninsured

A check for $79,000 representing the money raised during a golf event last year was presented to recently by the 2010 Pink Rock Golf Classic Committee.

The 18-hole Pink Rock Golf Classic brought out 90 golfers on Oct. 7 to play at the Great Rock Golf Club in Wading River. The money they raised will go to a fund that helps uninsured women get the vital screenings and diagnostic procedures they need to help spot the early signs of breast cancer.

Michelle Price, M.D., who is Co-Director of the Fortunato Breast Health Center said that early detection is the best way to combat the disease.

“The American Cancer Society recommends a first mammogram by age 40 and yearly mammograms thereafter,” said Dr. Price, who accepted the check from committee members. “The money raised by the Pink Rock Classic helps to ensure that everyone has access to this vital test.”

Committee members Jean Larsen and Walter Hurney created the Pink Rock Classic, which is the largest single event dedicated to raising money for the uninsured women’s fund at the center. Other smaller fundraisers also contribute.

According to a hospital spokesperson the fund has already helped five women in 2011 with their mammograms and diagnostic procedures and there are more applications pending. In 2010 the center performed more than 10,000 mammograms.

Dr. Price says that women should put aside their fears. She encourages all women to just go and get their annual mammogram.

“Just do it,” she said. “Do it for yourself and do it for the loved ones who care for you and depend on you.”

The 2011 Pink Rock Golf Classic is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 6. For more information on the event contact 476-2723 or go online at www.thepinkrock.org.