Community Gathers for 4th Annual Rising Up Against Breast Cancer Event

Members of the RE/MAX of Midland and MyMichigan Health breast health teams stand in front of MyMichigan Health’s Mobile Mammography Unit at Dow Diamond for the fourth annual Rising Up Against Breast Cancer event. The fundraiser educated the community on the importance of early detection of breast cancer, as well as raised funds to provide mammograms for those in need.

It was a day of pink, community spirit and meaningful impact as residents gathered on Sunday, May 3, at the Rising Up Against Breast Cancer fundraising baseball game. RE/MAX of Midland, the MyMichigan Health Foundation and Great Lakes Loons teamed up to host a successful event at Dow Diamond. The afternoon combined a salute to all mothers and America’s favorite pastime, all while promoting the importance of early detection of breast cancer and raising funds to provide mammograms for those in need.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees, sponsors, and local partners, the event raised $6,500, all of which will go directly to the MyMichigan Medical Center Midland Breast Health Fund to help cover the cost of mammograms for those who cannot afford them.

“The day was filled with energy. The community enjoyed a Loons’ game and we sent a powerful reminder on the importance of getting an annual mammogram for early diagnosis,” said Carrie Postma, event chair and REALTOR™ at RE/MAX of Midland. Postma knows firsthand the importance of early diagnosis as she lost her own mother to breast cancer when she was just six years old.

“This event hits home for me, but what’s most important for our team is ensuring women have access to mammograms,” added Postma. “I’m grateful to those who have donated to MyMichigan Health and that we can provide lifesaving screenings for the community.”

“Seeing the community come together like this was truly inspiring,” said Denise O’Keefe, executive director, MyMichigan Health Foundation, “Not only did we have a fantastic day at the ballpark, but we also made a real difference in people’s lives. We are grateful to Carrie and those who support our Breast Health Fund.”

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers (after skin cancer) and accounts for about 30 percent of all new female cancers each year. According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that 322,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the United States in 2026, along with about 60,730 cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer. Regular mammography remains the primary and most effective screening method for early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

“Early detection isn’t just important; it can be lifesaving in the fight against breast cancer. Events like this break down barriers, giving more people access to the critical screenings they might otherwise miss,” 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 in Midland. “I’m honored to stand with my friend Carrie and her mission to raise both awareness and vital funding for breast imaging services in our community.”

“We are so grateful for the incredible support from our participants, volunteers, sponsors and community,” said O’Keefe. “Because of you, we can continue our mission and provide hope and care to those affected by breast cancer. We especially thank our donors and sponsors, including Barb and Jay Anderson, Becky and Steve Church, Staci and Doug Chroninger, Jeff Coates, Jessica Ehmcke, Jennifer Horton, Suzie and Dennis Knoff, Alicia Kozak, Susan and Chad Moody, Lori Meylan, MyMichigan Health, Denise and Mark O’Keefe, Carrie Postma, RE/MAX of Midland, Rick and Jan Reynolds, Rita Sheehan, Gina and Kevin Stevens, Karen and Greg Stiffler, Dana and Nick Thering, Jeff and Kay Wagner, Amy and John Wilson, Jill Wood, Tom and Heather Wood, and Cheryl Yesney.”

Those interested in more information on supporting the Breast Health Fund may visit  mymichigan.org/gopinkmidland. Those interested in more information about breast health care at MyMichigan Health may visit mymichigan.org/breasthealth.