Cabinet Peaks' “Paint It Pink” celebrates 16 years of impact on breast health
Cabinet Peaks Medical Center's Paint it Pink crew worked hard in 2024 to raise thousands of dollars for breast health in Lincoln County. From left, back row, are Tina Zimmerman, Erin Howard, Nicci Lira, Brenna Herron, Alysia Frederick, Donna Nicely and Dorothy Smith. From left, front row, are Paula Collins and Lori Benson. (Courtesy photo)
In honor of Breast Health Awareness Month in October, Cabinet Peaks Medical Center held its annual fundraising, including Ladies Night Out: Breast Health Awareness Dessert and BINGO to support the Paint It Pink program.
Since its inception in 2007, Paint It Pink has raised over $150,000, providing more than 350 free mammograms and breast ultrasounds for residents in Lincoln County, furthering local access to crucial breast health services.
This year’s evening event brought the community together over dessert and BINGO, celebrating both Breast Health Awareness Month and the profound impact of Paint It Pink. Originally launched to fund a Digital Mammography machine, Paint It Pink has evolved to cover mammogram costs for any community member in need, regardless of insurance status.
“We’re grateful to everyone here tonight who makes this mission possible. Early detection saves lives, and we want to make sure no one in our community misses out on life-saving screening,” said Paula Collins, Paint It Pink Coordinator.
Throughout October, businesses and individuals across Lincoln County rally to support breast health awareness, hosting events, donating and wearing pink to show solidarity.
This year, Glacier Bank made a significant impact, awarding a $10,000 grant and raising over $7,000 during their annual Fun Run.
“The generosity of our local partners is incredible and we thank each of them for their role in raising awareness and funding,” added Collins. “These efforts make a real difference.”
The event also honored healthcare professionals who play essential roles in supporting patients through their breast health journey:
- Chemotherapy and Infusion Nurses: These skilled and compassionate caregivers provide vital support and expertise for patients facing challenging treatments. Recognized were: Teri Beebe, Jamie Watkins, Katie Lamkins, Janina Hobday, Caroline Roby, and Devenne Leiss.
- Mammography Technologists and Sonographers: Key in the early detection of breast cancer, these professionals were celebrated for their empathy and technical expertise. Recognized were: Elena Carsley (Lead Mammographer), Avory Escobar, Madison Snyder, Debbie Inman (Breast Sonographer), Allye Anderson (Breast Sonographer) and Imaging Manager Hannah Huck.
The event concluded with a heartfelt thanks to the evening’s organizing team, including Chef Brenna Herron and her CPMC staff, and local supporters like the Past Time Bar.
Additional gratitude went to the businesses that consistently back Paint It Pink, including Glacier Bank, Glacier Insurance, Card Clinic, CHC, Mint Bar, Cabinet Peaks Imaging Department, Surgery Department, Rehab, Family Medicine Clinic, Orthopedics, Family Health and Wellness, Hava Java, Lincoln County Credit Union, Libby Care Center and Spring Up Libby.
Since 2007, Paint It Pink has provided vital breast health services in Lincoln County. Community contributions allow the program to expand mammogram access to everyone, ensuring that residents receive essential screenings regardless of their insurance status. Contact your local health care provider for more information.