Fitzgibbon Hospital will kick off its annual Pink Out campaign in late September, bringing the community together to raise cancer detection and treatment awareness and support cancer patients through the Fitzgibbon Community Cancer Center.
The more than month-long initiative combines sporting events, fundraising activities and community engagement to honor cancer survivors and support those currently battling the disease.
"Pink Out represents our commitment to standing with cancer patients and their families during their most challenging times," said Andrea Barr, Director of the Fitzgibbon Hospital Foundation. "Every event helps raise funds and awareness about the critical services provided by the Fitzgibbon Community Cancer Center."
The Pink Out festivities begin in September with special events including the "Tuff Enuf to Wear Pink" rodeo at the fairgrounds on Friday, Sept. 19, and the "Swinging for Pink" night golf tournament at Stone Hedge Country Club on Saturday, Sept. 27.
The events continue Oct. 1 with Marshall High School's Powder Puff football game at 6 p.m., where the staff of Fitzgibbon Hospital take on the staff of Marshall Public Schools in a much-anticipated game of flag football. The Marshall High School Pink Out football game is planned for 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3, as the Marshall Owls take on the Moberly Spartans. Students, families and community members are encouraged to wear pink to show their support.
A highlight of the campaign is the "Pig Out for Pink Out" lunch, which is also scheduled for Friday, Oct. 3. Tickets are available for $10 in the hospital gift shop through Monday, Sept. 29. Lunches will be ready for pickup from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, with proceeds supporting cancer center programs. The lunch is put on by many local businesses to raise money for the Fitzgibbon Community Cancer Center.
Sports activities continue throughout the month with Slater's Pink Out softball game at 5 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7. The following day features Slater's Powder Puff game and bonfire at 6 p.m., on Wednesday, Oct. 8, followed by their Pink Out football game at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 10.
Fitzgibbon Hospital employees also will get an opportunity to join in the fun with several internal events. The hospital will host its Employee Chili Cook Off from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 29. in the small café, fostering camaraderie among staff while supporting the cause.
Adding a festive autumn element, the pumpkin decorating contest among the hospital's departments begins Tues., Oct. 14, on Facebook. Voting concludes at 5 p.m., Tues., Oct. 21. Winners will be announced Wed., Oct. 22. The public is encouraged to follow the Fitzgibbon Hospital Foundation Facebook page to cast their votes for the best-carved or most creative pumpkin that represents cancer awareness.
T-shirts for this year’s Pink Out campaign are available for ordering online at https://fitzpinkout25.itemorder.com/.
The Fitzgibbon Community Cancer Center provides comprehensive oncology services, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy and support services for patients and families throughout central Missouri. The Pink Out campaign's proceeds directly support these vital programs and helps ensure continued access to quality cancer care without having to leave the community. Professional care is provided by the physicians of Missouri Cancer Associates as well as Fitzgibbon nursing staff.