"Strength in Pink" auxiliary fundraiser

COLFAX - A decked-out-in-pink Bettie Steiger Community Center boasted a large group of women who were coming together to raise funds for breast cancer awareness Saturday, Sept. 21.

The Whitman Hospital and Medical Clinics Auxiliary hosted "Strength in Pink," the first luncheon honoring those who have been affected by breast cancer on Sept. 21.

A silent auction took place until 2 p.m. to raise funds.

Diane Clark welcomed the group of women, followed by a blessing by Darlene Kroll and the tables were dismissed by Whitman Hospital and Medical Clinics Senior Manager of Imaging Services Lacey Frei to get food before Dr. Christin Reisenauer, MD spoke to the crowd about everything the hospital offers for breast cancer treatment, including a 3D mammography.

"You are all so lucky," said Reisenauer. "You have a hospital willing to invest in a community."

Reisenauer said ages typically making the timeline for breast cancer are 40 to 80-years-old.

"Artificial intelligence is the next big thing for radiology," said Reisenauer.

After Reisenauer, Frei gave a presentation on statistics from the American Cancer Society.

"Each of us in this room has likely been touched by breast cancer," said Frei, noting whether it was through having lived through it or seen a loved one fight it.

"Together in strength and hope we come together," said Frei.

Frei said breast cancer is still one of the leading causes of cancer, second only to lung cancer.

"Getting your mammogram is a 99% survival rate," she said.

With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Frei said unique to the Whitman Hospital and Medical Clinics a free breast cancer awareness T-shirt designed by the team is given to women who come in for their mammograms.

"This is something that is unique to Whitman," Frei said. "They have offered a free T-shirt for 15 years."

The team presented this year's design during the luncheon and the keynote speaker Dee Ann Hill, of Fruitland, Idaho, came forward to share her story about fighting breast cancer.

Hill's mother, Ann, of Endicott leads a group of women who advocate for breast cancer awareness.

Hill said her journey with breast cancer started 28 years ago, at the age of 34, fighting it several times.

"You are so lucky to live in a community that is small and able to work together," said Hill, noting that her mother was there for her every step of the way helping her to get through it.

"Having people who support you is so important." Hill said. "Having that tight knit community to support each other."

Overall, Frei said the event was a great first event with tickets completely sold out, noting she is thankful for everyone who came.

"I wasn't expecting this turn out." Frei said, "We're hoping to make it an annual event."