On Friday, April 8, many NFL greats hit the greens at the Plantation Preserve Golf Course taking a personal stand as men supporting breast cancer awareness, reminding us all that this is not just a woman’s disease.
On Saturday, April 9, Actors Hill Harper, Chris Spencer and singer Yolanda Adams came out to the Pink Diamond Ball, held at the Westin Beach Resort & Spa, in support of the organization’s mission to work with women from all economic backgrounds promoting breast cancer awareness in the community and providing needed support. Grammy Award winning artist, Yolanda Adams beautifully performed two songs, “Never Give Up,” and “I Believe I Can Fly” and CSI:NY’s Actor Hill Harper came to the stage and spoke to attendees about how important it is to come together and support one another to fight against this epidemic which is ravishing communities across the country.
It was an elegant affair with strong messages of community support, education and preventative care. There were heartfelt stories like that 38 year-old Kimberly Smith of Ft. Lauderdale, who was on top of the world having just finished law school and was in the process of taking the Bar exam when her world “came crashing down.” In 2004, she was diagnosed with Breast cancer and has been fighting it ever since. Although, the disease has spread to many of her vital organs, including her brain, she stood up at the Woman2Woman Pink Diamond Ball as a pillar of courage and faith. At one point, doctors recommended her to hospice, but her parents would not allow her to give up. Everyday brings new challenges for Kimberly, however she is alive today to share her story and possibly save the life of others while encouraging strength in those who are in the battle.
Sponsors of the 2011 Real Men Support Pink Golf Tournament and Pink Diamond Ball are: The Fort Lauderdale Westin Beach Hotel and Spa, Phil Smith Auto, Best Buy, Alfs Golf, Warren Henry Automobile, WB Cigars and WFLC 97.3 The Coast.
Founded in 2007, Woman2Woman founders Jacqueline R. Gray and Kevin Gray formed the organization to ensure through information, early detection and support, that no woman faces breast cancer alone. Recently named one of Ebony magazine’s Power 100 (January, 2011) as an emerging leader in health, Jacqueline and Kevin have provided assistance to thousands of individuals whose lives are affected by breast cancer. For more information visit: www.w2wbcf.org or call 800-766-0135.
Photos: – Credit: Teekay