November 14, 2012
The stars came out for “A Cure for Cape,” the American Cancer Society’s Annual Gala, presented by Saint Francis Medical Center. The cancer survivors, Saint Francis employees and community supporters at the August 25 event raised a remarkable $146,374 for the American Cancer Society’s cancer-fighting efforts – a 36 percent increase from last year’s event, also presented by Saint Francis, 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,” says 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,” says 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. Staffed by compassionate cancer experts who include specialty physicians (credentialed by Physicians Network), oncology nurses, radiation therapists and other caregivers, the Cancer Institute utilizes advanced medicines, progressive therapies and state-of-the-art technology to successfully treat various forms of cancer. Additionally, often-needed prevention and support services are also offered to patients and their family members.
The Cancer Institute is a fully integrated facility housing the most advanced cancer-fighting technology, including a permanent, dedicated PET/CT, the region’s only CyberKnife® Robotic Radiosurgery System – one of only three in the state and one of 150 in the world – and a 35-bay chemotherapy infusion center designed by patients.