Memorial Hermann hospital at The Woodlands will host its annual In the Pink of Health luncheon at 10 a.m. Friday at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center.
Geralyn Lucas, breast cancer survivor and author of the book, ""Why I Wore Lipstick to My Mastectomy,"" will be the keynote speaker. She will also be available to sign copies of her book, according to a press release by the hospital.
A silent auction and vendor booths also begin at 10 a.m. The lunch and presentation are set for 11:30 a.m. The purpose of the fundraiser is to raise education and awareness, for prevention of breast cancer for all.
Lucas was a producer for ABC News' 20/20 and only twenty-seven-years old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She tells her story of courage and survival through such a trying ordeal. Co-chair of the 2007 In the Pink of Health Tracey O'Neal said Lucas had a mastectomy on one side of her chest. ""In her book, she talks about certain doctors who tell her to have both breasts removed, others told her to keep her breasts, and do a lumpectomy,"" she said. ""She chose to leave one breast."" A story about Lucas aired on the Lifetime television network, about her journey through the cancer, and being diagnosed so young, O'Neal said.
""The reason she wore lipstick to her mastectomy was a way for her to validate to herself that she was strong and could do it,"" she said.
Lucas will share her experiences of what it is like being young and diagnosed with breast cancer at the event. The key for the event is raising awareness in early detection, O'Neal said. ""We want women who attend the event to do early detection and be more aware of the symptoms, risks and prevention,"" she said.
This is the seventh year for In the Pink of Health. The original event was held as a group of women who got together to talk about women's issues, O'Neal said.
""When I started with the organization four years ago there were about 250 attendees at our event. It increased to 725 last year,"" she said. ""This year we are expecting between 800-850 attendees. We have also raised over $360,000 for the Breast and Bone Care Center at Memorial Hermann for education materials for newly diagnosed cancer patients and for free mammograms for underserved women in the community.""
The volunteer group for In the Pink is growing, O'Neal said.
""There are 30 volunteers on the committee. They work very hard and are amazing,"" she said. ""There are very few events that can handle 850 attendees.""
This is going to be an informative and life saving event, O'Neal said.
""It is important for women to know about early detection to help save their lives,"" she said.
Individual tickets are priced at $80 and tables of eight are $800. Corporate sponsorships begin at $1,500 and underwriting opportunities are also available.
For more information, contact Mindy Reich at 281-731-6474.
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