Courtesy photo Golfers at Rally for a Cure enjoy the day at Lost Lake Woods while supporting the Breast Health Fund at MyMichigan Health Foundation.

LINCOLN – Lost Lake Woods Club will host its annual Rally for a Cure golf outing on Saturday, Aug. 1, at the Lost Lake Woods Golf Course in Lincoln. The Rally features a four-person scramble with 18 holes of golf, a shotgun start at 10 a.m., and a luncheon with awards following play. Check-in for the event opens at 9 a.m., with the opportunity to purchase mulligans and raffle tickets for a variety of gift certificates to area golf-courses and other valuable prizes. Participants can also enjoy hole-in-one prize opportunities throughout the day.

Since 2010, Rally for a Cure has raised more than $56,000 to support patients locally through the MyMichigan Health Foundation benefiting the Alpena Cancer Center. Funds raised remain in the community and help cover the cost of breast cancer screenings, diagnostic imaging, biopsies and transportation assistance such as gas cards, reducing barriers to care for patients who may otherwise delay or forgo needed services.

“Rally for a Cure continues to make a difference for breast health patients in our region,” said Ann Diamond, development director, MyMichigan Health Foundation. “The generosity of participants and sponsors helps remove barriers to care, while also supporting advancements that improve the patient experience and access to high-quality breast health services close to home.”

One of the most recent enhancements that the Rally assisted in funding was renovations to the Breast Health Suite at MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena. The changes created a centralized, patient-friendly space that combines waiting, imaging and exam areas into one convenient location. This redesign has improved efficiency and reduced the length of appointments, while offering a more comfortable experience for patients.

Event lead organizer, Paulette Kallstrom, shared that the Rally doesn’t just raise funds, it also plays an important role in increasing awareness about the importance of early detection and routine screenings:

“This event is a community effort, and we are so grateful for the continued support. The energy on the course makes it even more special – every swing, every team and every sponsor helps drive our mission forward. We’re excited to see attendees come together for a great day of golf, all while making a great impact. Every donation helps us reach more women and ensures they have access to the breast health care they need while also generating a greater awareness of the importance of early detection.”

Breast cancer screening remains a challenge nationwide, particularly for uninsured and underserved populations. National data shows significant gaps in screening rates based on insurance status, and Michigan ranks 38th in the nation, with only 64 percent of eligible women receiving recommended screenings. Factors such as cost, limited transportation, lack of access to care and limited awareness continue to impact whether women seek preventive services. Funds raised through this event will assist in providing mammograms to anyone in northeast Michigan obtaining services at MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena.

Event registration is open to all skill levels. The cost is $100 for guests, $90 for members and $80 for members with golf memberships, with lunch-only tickets available for $20. Registration includes a round of 18 holes, a golf cart, donation and lunch. The event is limited to the first 25 paid teams, and registration must be completed by Sunday, July 19. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for individuals and businesses looking to support the cause.

Those interested in more information may contact Paulette Kallstrom at (248) 763-0187 or visit the Lost Lake Woods Club Golf Shop. Those seeking more information about the Breast Health Fund may contact Diamond at ann.diamond@mymichigan.org or (989) 356-7738. Those with breast health questions, such as screenings and related services, may contact Cirrae Heise, breast program coordinator, at cirrae.heise@mymichigan.org or (989) 356-8015.