Through our signature women’s empowerment program, Nation of Neighbors, we recognize and support women who work to empower other women and girls through a nonprofit, business, or program. Sherry Stauffer, Founder of DeWitt Community Hospital Foundation’s Pink for the Cure Committee is one of ten recipients of the 2022 Nation of Neighbors℠ empowerment award and $10,000 grant.
In 2008, after the completion of treatment for breast cancer, survivor Sherry Stauffer learned of her sister-in-law’s second breast cancer diagnosis. Sherry was determined to help so she began a one-woman crusade to help the hospital and community understand the depth of impact breast cancer can have on families, how others can support them, and the importance of early detection.
Her initial efforts were simple and grassroots. Sherry started with a simple flyer encouraging the Dewitt Community Hospital staff to wear pink for one day. From there, a DeWitt Community Hospital Foundation committee was formed and named “Pink for the Cure.” Awareness quickly blossomed throughout the community with merchants and residents turning the town pink during October.
The Pink for the Cure Committee also hosts “Flamingo Flocking” events to raise funds and build awareness. Community members can pay to send a flock of pink plastic flamingos to someone’s front yard. The recipient then has the opportunity to choose the next yard to be flocked with a small donation.
With the funds raised from several events, Pink for the Cure was able to purchase a 3D mammography unit for the hospital. Genesis Medical Center, DeWitt is now able to make mammograms available to uninsured and underinsured persons at no cost.
“Pink for the Cure is making an impact by supporting women and their families – not just for today – but also for the future of breast cancer and the families affected by it through awareness and early detection,” said Royal Neighbors Interim-President and CEO Curt Zeck. “Her work creates a ripple effect of women’s empowerment that is in beautiful alignment with the mission of Royal Neighbors of America.”
Pink for the Cure will use the grant to spread breast cancer awareness and fund more mammograms for women of Clinton County. “Our Community Health Needs Assessment shows rural women have some of the highest numbers for not getting mammograms,” said Sherry.
