Golf event to raise money for breast cancer research
By Maria Prato-gaines, Staff Writer
MONROE — Three and a half years ago, Ernie McCarren faced the fight of her life when doctors diagnosed her with stage one breast cancer following a routine mammogram.
Today, this survivor, as she refers to herself, is giving back to the local women who’ve lived through and sometimes lost their battle with the disease as an event chairwoman for the Forsgate Country Club’s fourth annual Play for PINK golf-marathon.
”Every day is special,” said Ms. McCarren. “The drug I started to take three and a half years ago was relatively new and because of it I was able to bypass chemo. New drugs are being discovered every day.”
In the past three years the event has raised more than $70,000, which was donated to organizations championing the fight against breast cancer.
This year, 100 percent of the proceeds will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation to aid in its work to find a cure and promote prevention.
Although organizers are afraid that a slowing economy and a loss of membership might stunt their fundraising efforts, Ms. McCarren said she still has high hopes for the approximately 50 women attending the Thursday event.
In the golf event, which runs from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., the woman participate by first collecting pledges, with a minimum of $1 per hole, and later spending the day swinging their hearts out.
Last year the participants played an average of 32 holes, with some of the women golfing through as many as 60 on the prestigious Palmer course, a press release on the event stated.
Although golfing is limited to Forsgate members, event organizers are still searching out more pledges and sponsors for the event.
”Once again the ownership and managers of Forsgate are happy to donate the golf course, golf cars and the golf staff’s services to this important cause,” said Det Williams, the club’s general manager, in a press release. “I am proud to be associated with Forsgate Country Club and have the opportunity to contribute time and resources to the charitable causes the Forsgate Foundation supports.”
Sponsorship ranges from $500 for a flag to $250 for a sign. Some are bought by businesses while others are purchased in memory of a loved one who did not survive the fight against the disease.
”The purpose (of) the event and why we get behind this is because we’re trying to fund research,” Ms. McCarren said. “Think of the most important woman in your life — that’s why you do it. So she won’t have to fear this.”
Merchandise will be sold at Forsgate golfing events until the day of the tournament and a set of men’s irons is being raffled to support the fundraising efforts.
Donations can be made to Ms. McCarren at Forsgate Country Club, 375 Forsgate Drive. For more information, contact event organizers at 201-401-3075.