Batavia Downs was decked out in pink for the Pink Hatters and Friends on Thursday evening. The annual event celebrates cancer survivors and patients in the community and is put on by UMMC/Rochester Regional. The event also raises money for those battling cancer.
The event included a vendor fair, basket auction and Sonja Gonyea, Associate Chief Operating Officer/UMMC was Emcee. During the program survivors were recognized and survivor Eli Howard spoke to the large crowd in attendance.
“We had around 380 people in attendance (sold out room) with over 90 cancer survivors and cancer fighters in attendance,” says Laurie Ferrando, Healthy Living Department Program Manager-Healthy Living Campus.
“We raised around 1400 in our 50/50 and the winner donated a large portion back to the Healthy Women’s Partnership. We also raised around 3,500 in our dessert dash. Monies raised assist those in our Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming County region with some help toward uncovered costs associated with screenings, diagnostics, care equipment, & care needs. The evening is dedicated to celebrating all those in this region who are survivors, thrivers and fighters of cancer along with their caregivers, families and friends.”
“We are extremely thankful to our local businesses’, co-workers, friends and families for their donations to this event- it makes this a successful event each year. Pink Hatters celebration has been in existence for over 35 years.’Â
