Massey Cancer Center: Ribbons for research
Since 1998, VCU Health Systems’ Massey Cancer Center has celebrated life and courage through their Ribbons for Research campaign. The fundraiser’s goal is to raise money for breast cancer research and to celebrate and remember those who have struggled with the disease.
Since 1998, VCU Health Systems’ Massey Cancer Center has celebrated life and courage through their Ribbons for Research campaign. The fundraiser’s goal is to raise money for breast cancer research and to celebrate and remember those who have struggled with the disease.
Anyone who knows a breast cancer survivor or victim can purchase a pink ribbon for $10 through this Friday. In addition to the ribbon, each participant will receive something special for Valentine’s Day.
“You receive a Valentine that you can mail to the person (you bought the ribbon in honor of),” said Fran Householder, assistant director of development and external relations at the center.
A breast cancer survivor first organized the campaign and then it merged with VCU Health Systems’ Women & Wellness forum, which also supports the drive to find a cure for the cancer, Householder said.
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women. In 2003, the organization says, about 211,300 women in the United States will be found to have the disease and about 39,800 will die from it.
Each year, about $20,000 is raised through Ribbons for Research. All proceeds go toward breast cancer research at the Massey Cancer Center, which has served its patients since 1975.
According to the center’s Web site, it is one of 60 National Cancer Institute designated centers in the United States, and one of two in Virginia. Fifty-eight doctors at the center are involved solely with research to find cures for all types of cancers.
The pink ribbons will be displayed at the James Center atrium on the Wall of Courage through the end of the month.
