Memorial Hermann’s In the Pink of Health Breaks Fundraising Records at Its October 2nd Luncheon

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The energy was electric at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott on October 2nd as nearly 1,000 guests packed the house for Memorial Hermann’s 26th Annual In the Pink of Health luncheon, and together they shattered fundraising records in support of breast and ovarian cancer awareness and survivorship programs!

Leading the charge for an incredible 12th consecutive year was Presenting Sponsor Richie’s Specialty Pharmacy. The celebration began well before the program as guests explored education exhibits, shopped the Pink Boutique, found their perfect shade at the lipstick color match bar, and tried their luck at fun fundraising opportunities , including the Glow,Dine and Shine Pull, sponsored by The Only Facial, and the Luxury Experience Raffle, sponsored by Diamonds Direct.

The impact speaks for itself. Since its founding, In the Pink of Health has reinvested more than $9.7 million to reduce the incidence of breast and ovarian cancer and to support survivors through a wide range of free programs at Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center located on the campus of Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center.

Back by popular demand, emcee Dana Tyson of Sunny Radio 99.1 set the tone for the afternoon with her signature energy and heartfelt passion for the mission.
Justin Kendrick, Senior Vice President and CEO of Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center and Memorial Hermann Northeast, expressed his gratitude to the sponsors who make it all possible, recognizing Richie and CeCe Ray of Richie’s Specialty Pharmacy, Legacy Sponsors Tricia and Jack Futcher, and John and Kristy Sexton with Brand Patron Adcetera. In one of the afternoon’s most moving moments, Kendrick shared that his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer several years ago and is thriving today thanks to early detection, a powerful reminder of why this mission matters. He also thanked the In the Pink of Health committee and its leaders, Jamie Bolt and Nicole Preston.

Event co-chairs Jamie Bolt and Nicole Preston then took the stage to celebrate the people behind the event’s success. Nicole thanked their hardworking committee, honored past In the Pink co-chairs, and celebrated a special milestone: the 10th anniversary of Memorial Hermann’s Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center and the profound difference it makes for cancer patients and their loved ones. Jamie applauded the Pink Diamond Sponsors – Jessica and Trey Brice, In Memory of Melissa Preston; the Haag Family Foundation; Waste Connections; and the Yuko and Nick Charitable Fund – along with Platinum Sponsors US Oncology, Texas Oncology and The Woodlands Cancer Institute.

She also gave a special shout-out to top underwriters BMW of The Woodlands, The Only Facial, Seven Blessings, Waste Connections and Premiere Events.

Anne Neeson, Executive Vice President and CEO of the Memorial Hermann Foundation, highlighted exciting advances in cancer care, noting that “Memorial Hermann diagnoses more cancers annually than any other health system in Texas.” She also celebrated the generous donors in the room whose transformational gifts are fueling Memorial Hermann’s work in Montgomery County.

Then came one of the most inspiring moments of the day. The luncheon proudly welcomed back Stephanie Parke Mason, a local dentist who has survived two battles with ovarian cancer. She was cheered on by a lively section of friends, family and loved ones decked out in teal to support her and to raise awareness of ovarian cancer.

The program built to a grand finale with featured speaker Shayla Rivera, who had the audience roaring with laughter one moment and reflecting on her words of wisdom the next. Guests lingered afterward for the chance to meet her one-on-one at the post-program Meet and Greet.

Best of all, the impact will be felt quickly. Funds raised from this year’s event will be distributed in January to provide free mammograms, wigs and prostheses, fund breakthrough technologies, and continue life-changing programs for patients and survivors across Montgomery County through Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center.

Join the movement! To support In the Pink of Health, visit inthepinkofhealth.org.