By Amy Howe
The mission of Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks (BCFO) is raising funds locally and then providing help and hope to those impacted by breast cancer.
Since its founding in 1999, BCFO has provided over $7.5 million in direct financial help to patients diagnosed with breast cancer and their families. Aid includes assistance for short-term non-medical needs, such as housing expenses, car payments, groceries and utilities.
BCFO also provides a free screening mammogram program available year-round. Both Freeman Health System and Mercy Joplin partner with BCFO to provide free screening mammogram events. During these walk-in events, no physician order or appointment is necessary. According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 women and 1 in 833 men will experience a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. The frequency is less in younger women – 1 in 209 at age 30.
Much of the foundation’s fundraising is received during BCFO’s Pink Ribbon Gala each year. The Pink Ribbon Gala is the main fundraiser in the Four-State Region and is led by Outreach Director Kristi Seibert, a breast cancer survivor herself.
This year’s gala is scheduled for Oct. 27 at Indigo Sky Casino and Resort. Guests always look forward to the exciting theme and this year is no different. The theme for this year’s Pink Ribbon Gala is Masquerade and Mammo’sas, a fun Mardi Gras theme. Get ready to break out your vibrant feather boas and whimsical masquerade mask for an incredible night of fundraising and fun!
For sponsorship and ticket information, contact Kristi Seibert at 417.434.2200 or [email protected] or www.bcfo.org