South KC News

Bates County Memorial Hospital (BCMH) has reported significant community involvement in support of the BCMH Cares Mammogram Fund during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The fund is designed to assist local women by providing screening mammograms and follow-up imaging, particularly for those without insurance coverage.

This year, the hospital saw participation from both its employees and the broader community. Internal fundraising activities included a 50/50 raffle, which awarded $95 to winner Brenda Thornburg, a BCMH housekeeper, with an equal amount contributed to the mammogram fund. Additionally, ribbon sales added $62 to the total.

Local schools also joined the effort. The Butler Bears Go Pink Volleyball event raised $930 for the fund, while results from the Miami Eagles Go Pink Volleyball event are expected soon.

The largest single contribution this year came from Healthy Blue, a MO HealthNet Managed Care plan and Missouri Medicaid product. Lillian Colburn, Provider Network Manager at Healthy Blue and a former Butler Bear student, presented a $5,000 grant to BCMH employees and board members.

“Our community showed up in an incredible way this year,” said Christi Pope, RT, R, M, Director of Imaging Services at BCMH. “From our local school pink events to internal fundraising efforts, every contribution helps us give women access to lifesaving screenings.”

“BCMH appreciates Healthy Blue’s support and collaboration in improving the health and lives of people throughout Missouri,” said Pope. “Together, we’re giving women in our community hope through early detection.”

According to hospital representatives, these combined contributions will expand access to early breast cancer screenings for more women in the area.