CWAC began raising money for the Forsyth Medical Center Foundation in 2004, and to honor the memory of Debby Burgess, a rodeo rider who competed in numerous events during her career and died of breast cancer in 2003. The event has grown to honor not only Burgess, but several other friends and families of our local horse communities. The money raised has been used to pay for mammograms and treatment for women who could not afford them.
CWAC raised over $12,000 in its first year, $14,000 in 2006, and over $16,000 in 2006. In 2007, the group raised more than $20,000, topping out at $22,000 in 2009. Since it began, CWAC has helped 180 women in nine N.C. counties.
All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Forsyth Medical Center Foundation to fund free or reduced-cost mammograms and treatment for women who either don’t have health insurance or need financial assistance.
“This event honors Debby Burgess, a woman who many of us knew and loved, but it also provides us with an opportunity to educate women across our community about the importance of breast cancer prevention and early detection,” said Lyn Anderson, one of the event’s coordinators. “Our goal is to raise enough money so that every woman in need will be able to receive vital screenings and treatment.”
Additional information on the event can be found at cowgirlswithacause.org.
