Breast Cancer Event Draws Support and Spreads Awareness

Members of the RE/MAX of Midland team, along with MyMichigan Health breast health experts, gathered at the RE/MAX office for a “Rising Up Against Breast Cancer Event” on May 15, 2025, to raise awareness for breast cancer and funds for the Breast Health Fund at MyMichigan Medical Center Midland.

On Thursday, May 15, RE/MAX of Midland and the MyMichigan Health Foundation hosted their third annual event supporting breast health and raising funds for the Breast Health Fund at MyMichigan Medical Center Midland. Community members, survivors and medical experts gathered to share knowledge on key topics including breast cancer genetics, breast density, nutrition, the importance of annual mammograms and support services from Cancer Services of Midland. Attendees also enjoyed a visit from Cosmic Canine Cure therapy dogs from MyMichigan Medical Center Midland and a variety of local food trucks.

“The ‘Rising Up Against Breast Cancer’ event is about more than raising funds, it’s about empowering our community with life-saving information and support,” said Carrie Postma, event creator and REALTOR™, RE/MAX of Midland. “We’re proud to stand alongside survivors, advocates and experts in the fight against breast cancer.”

Postma knows first firsthand the importance of diagnosing breast cancer early as she lost her mother to the disease when she was just six years old. In memory of her mother, and all women whom breast cancer has touched, Postma and the RE/MAX team hosted the event, putting in countless hours to make a memorable evening.

Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent and impactful health issues affecting women worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that over 310,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the United States alone in 2024. An annual mammogram remains the gold standard screening technique to discover breast cancer early.

“Regular mammograms should be a priority in every woman’s health care routine. As a breast imaging radiologist, I witness firsthand how early detection can significantly improve both treatment outcomes and survival rates,” said Lindsay Zeeb, M.D., fellowship trained breast radiologist and medical director of breast imaging at the James T. and Elsa U. Pardee Cancer Wellness Center. “I’m proud to support my friend Carrie’s efforts to raise awareness and funds for breast imaging services in our community, especially for women who might not otherwise have access to this essential care.”

MyMichigan Health offers a variety of breast health and women’s health services, including advanced imaging technology such as 3-D mammography (also known as tomosynthesis), breast ultrasound, ultrasound breast screenings, breast MRI and stereotactic, ultrasound and MRI breast biopsy procedures. In addition, patients receive a lifetime and genetic breast cancer risk assessment to identify women at increased risk of breast cancer. The Breast Health Program at the Pardee Cancer Wellness Center is fully accredited by the American College of Radiology as a Designed Comprehensive Breast Imaging Center and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers by the American College of Surgeons.

“This event not only raises vital funds for our Breast Health Fund, but also serves as a powerful platform to educate and empower our community,” said Denise O’Keefe, executive director, MyMichigan Health Foundation. “It’s essential that women are informed about their breast health, and we’re incredibly grateful to Carrie and her team for their dedication. Thanks to their hard work, and generosity of our donors, we raised more than $7,800 to help expand access to breast health care for women in our area.”

“Together, we have the power to make a real difference in the lives of those impacted by breast cancer,” said Postma. “I urge all women to prioritize their health, starting with an annual mammogram, which is critical for early detection.”

“We are deeply thankful to every participant, volunteer, sponsor, and supporter who helped make this event a success,” said O’Keefe. “Your generosity fuels our mission and brings hope to those impacted by breast cancer. Special thanks to our donors and sponsors including Cancer Services, Becky and Steve Church, The Coney Guys, Cosmic Canine Cure Therapy Dogs, Staci and Doug Chroninger, ITH Staffing of Michigan, LLC., Jim Fitterling and Alex Lee, Suzie and Dennis Knoff, Alicia Kozak, Susan and Chad Moody, MyMichigan Health, Denise and Mark O’Keefe, O’Keefe Electric, LLC, Pardee Cancer Treatment Fund, Permalinx – Jbloom, RE/MAX of Midland, Rick and Jan Reynolds, Sawdee Asian Cuisine, Smith’s Flowers and Gifts, Karen and Greg Stiffler, Dana and Nick Thering, Jeff and Kay Wagner, Diane Brown Wilhelm, Jill Wood and Cheryl Yesney.”

For those who were unable to attend but still wish to support the cause, donations are accepted at mymichigan.org/gopinkmidland. To learn more about breast health care at MyMichigan Health visit mymichigan.org/breasthealth.