Summer Series of Impact: Volume 3

In this week’s issue, we outline the transformative difference YOU have helped to create for patients, families, and healthcare professionals through the most fundamental Golf Fights Cancer Priority of Giving: Early Detection and Education.

Early Detection and Education - First Responders

Detecting cancer early, and acting on it quickly, is the best way to save and improve the lives of the 40% of us who will receive a cancer diagnosis in our lifetime. Recognizing an alarming prevalence of the disease within the fire service, Golf Fights Cancer has directed close to $525,000 in funding to improve cancer survival through early detection and patient self advocacy education focused on firefighters through support of the mission and activities of DetecTogether.

Specific funding from a 2020 GFC grant and the 2021 GFC Golf Marathon supported DetecTogether in scaling their lifesaving Early Cancer Detection Training for First Responders program. Since inception, and with the support of Golf Fights Cancer, over 60,000 firefighters have been trained across the U.S., including the the nation's first fire department, Boston, and the nation's largest fire department, New York!

At 37, Wellesley, MA Firefighter Joanie Cullinan was diagnosed with Stage 3 melanoma. After learning that firefighters have an elevated risk of developing skin cancer, Joanie committed herself to advocating for health-related issues within the fire service, specifically early cancer detection.

Today, Joanie works with DetecTogether to ensure more departments can participate in the Early Detection Training for First Responders as an official trainer, and by raising funding and awareness as a Golf Fights Cancer Golf Marathoner.

Joanie Cullinan (on left), pictured with Tricia Laursen, President & Executive Director of DetecTogether, and Dermatologist Christine Kannler. Dr. Kannler, who provides free skin checks to firefighters as a way to honor her late brother, first raised concerns at a fire service screening that led to Joanie's cancer diagnosis.

"If only I had taken the DetecTogether class, maybe I would have caught my cancer earlier, and now wouldn’t be dealing with life-long side effects of treatment. I can't change my past, but maybe I can change someone else’s future.” - Joanie Cullinan

Learn more about our grant history.

Elaine Gebhardt

Since 2015, Elaine Gebhardt, Executive Director of the New England Golf Course Owners Association, has rallied her large community of friends, family, and fellow golfers to make a difference in the fight against cancer through Golf Fights Cancer's annual Golf Marathon.

Inspired by those around her who have bravely battled the disease, Elaine set out each year to raise critical awareness and funding in support of others. Last year, however, her commitment became personal. Diagnosed with breast cancer on Christmas Eve in 2021, Elaine inspired all who knew her by participating in her 7th consecutive golf marathon just 3 weeks after finishing treatment. More determined then ever, Elaine is gearing up for this year's marathon with a goal of reaching a cumulative $100,000 in funds raised.

"Golf Fights Cancer is blessed to have Elaine as one of our most passionate ambassadors", shares Executive Director, Cheryl McGuire. "As a respected leader in the New England golf community, and a warrior-survivor with a never-give-up attitude, Elaine epitomizes our mission! She’s an inspiration to many, a friend to all, and a relentless fundraiser who’s driven to help others by improving the overall cancer care experience."

In celebration of Elaine's impact as a GFC Ambassador and breast cancer survivor, the United States Golf Association (USGA) surprised her with a 'Dream Round' at The Country Club, featuring one of her favorite Red Sox pitchers, Tim Wakefield!

Patient Facing Capital Improvements

Join us next week for Volume 4 in the series to learn about the critical impact Golf Fights Cancer is making through our investment in Patient Facing Capital Improvements. .