LIFTED UP: Balloon release raises money in fight against cancer
Published 4:00 am Thursday, October 12, 2017
Five hundred purple and pink balloons were released Wednesday afternoon from Trojan Terrace. Each balloon represented the hope, inspiration and courage that is the hallmark of every person who is diagnosed with cancer.
Troy Regional Medical Center and Troy University teamed up for two victories on Wednesday – one in the fight against cancer and one of the field.
“This is a very special day,” Troy Regional Medical Center CEO Ron Dean said. “Even today, balloon sales continued to come in, making it possible to reach our goal. Troy University, the Pike Medical Foundation and the people of our community realize the benefits of having cancer services in our community. The money raised through the Balloon Release will support the Troy Regional Cancer Care Center that is soon to open at TRMC.”
Dean said each balloon in the release represented someone who is battling cancer, someone who has lost their battle and someone who is victorious over the disease.
“The outpouring of generosity from our community has been tremendous,” he said. “People recognize the need for cancer services in our community and they responded.”
Dean expressed appreciation to the members of the Pike Medical Foundation for their dedication and tireless efforts in continuing to bring quality health care to Troy and Pike County, to Troy University for its support and to every person who has invested in the development of the TRMC Cancer Care Center.
Mary Ida Williams, PMF member, sold 60 balloons at $100 each. But she said the Balloon Release was not about who sold the most balloons. It was about raising funds for the TRMC cancer center that will make it possible for cancer victims to receive services here at home.
“The Pike Medical Foundation is dedicated to raising the money that is needed to bring new services to Troy Regional Medical Center,” Williams said. “Cancer touches so many lives and we all find inspiration in the battles that are fought against cancer. The TRMC cancer center will mean so much to our community. We are blessed to have such a carrying and giving community that makes it possible.”