The Pink Ribbon Trailblazers are gearing up for our second annual "Fun"draiser on the Polly Ann Trail, September 13, 2008. Our goal is to enable as many women as possible who are under-served and uninsured to receive a free mammogram. Seven of our committee people are breast cancer survivors. The day I heard those words, "YOU HAVE BREAST CANCER," I looked around to see who the Dr. was speaking to. Having had breast and lung cancer has changed my life. I felt I needed to give back to those who helped me along the way. The Pink Ribbon Trailblazers formed in May, 2007.

Following our first event in 2007, the PRT presented a $14,040 check to St. Joseph Mercy Oakland Hospital’s Breast Program. When we banded together for our ‘stroll, walk, 5K run, or 20 mile bike ride on the Polly Ann Trail, our goal was to provide approximately 30 free mammograms through St. Joe’s Breast Program. As it turned out we could provide enough funds for 130 mammograms. Thanks to all who contributed to such a worthy cause.

One of the first women that benefited from the Pink Ribbon Trailblazers program is my former nail technician, a divorced mother of a son in high school. For two years she worried about a lump in her breast, had no insurance. Because she was only 38 there were no special programs out there she could qualify for. I’m happy to report that she did have her mammogram in 2007 and is fine. Our program is unique, there is no age limitation. If you know of a woman who is experiencing a breast problem, she can call the breast health nurse at SJMO at 240-858-3962.

We have grown since last year, we have our 501c3 status from the IRS are recognized by the federal government as a non-profit. The state of Michigan also recognizes our non- profit status, No. 70122R. We are determined to succeed!

Our fundraiser this year will be a ‘stroll, walk, 5K run, or 20 mile bike ride on the Polly Ann Trail September 13. We hope you will join us for this wonderful event or consider a donation for a mammogram for uninsured or underserved women. For further information visit our website, www.pinkribbontrialblazers, email Pat Nolf at dpnolf@yahoo.com or call 248-693-3182. See you on the trail!


Pat Nolf, Chair of Pink Ribbon Trailblazers