6th Annual Gather for the Cure: Celebrating survivorship and remembering those we have lost to breast cancer

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, MercyOne Genesis and the MercyOne Genesis Foundation will host the 6th Annual Gather for the Cure on Sunday, October 18, at Scott County Park, Whispering Pines Indoor Shelter.

• WHO: Gather for the Cure
• WHEN: Noon to 2 p.m., Sunday, October 18, 2026.
• WHERE: Scott County Park, Whispering Pines Indoor Shelter

Highlights:

• Inspiration - Connect with others facing breast cancer and hear from our Survivor, Andi Kelly.
• Self-Directed Walk: Participate in a one-mile walk starting at 1 p.m. with lots of fun activities along the walk. Pre-registered walkers can opt to receive a T-shirt.
• Exclusive Isabel Bloom: Purchase a breast cancer awareness ornament, signed by artist Donna Young at the event.
• "Pink Heals" Fire Truck: Sign to show your support.
• Photo Opportunity: Capture memories at our pink-themed photo station.
• Local Resources: Explore fun items and resources from area vendors dedicated to supporting those on their breast cancer journey.
• Support: Join Cancer Support Communities (Gilda's Club) to learn about access to support groups for patients and families impacted by breast cancer.
• Refreshments: Enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks.
• Caricatures: Get a personalized caricature by Draw Me Bill. Proceeds from this help support Gather for the Cure
• Pet Therapy: Enjoy time with our therapy dogs.
• Bubble Ceremony: Blow bubbles to honor breast cancer survivors and those we've lost.

Background:
The event offers an opportunity to celebrate breast cancer survivorship, remember those lost to breast cancer, and learn about available programs and resources. Gather for the Cure is the primary fundraiser for the MercyOne Genesis voucher program. The program has administered breast health screenings since 2001, providing no-cost mammograms and ultrasounds in a timely, efficient manner to qualifying patients.

Voucher program by the numbers:

• $49,486 paid out to cover breast health services for patients with little or no insurance who otherwise would have paid out-of-pocket.
• 174 Individuals have accessed the Voucher Program
• The program benefits both Iowa and Illinois residents
• Over the last year, money raised from Gather for the Cure has helped over 20 patients receive MRIs, biopsies, screening mammograms, a double mastectomy, ultrasounds and genetic testing.

Cost should never be a barrier

Because cost should never be a barrier to accessing essential, life-saving breast imaging, the Genesis Foundation is committed to raising the funds needed to meet demand - an estimated $50,000 annually.

"Breast screening is a vital part of early cancer detection, helping identify cancer before it becomes noticeable through symptoms alone. Detecting cancer earlier can provide more treatment options and increase the likelihood of successful treatment. We strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to accept their screening invitation. It is a simple yet important step," said Mary Angerer, MercyOne Genesis Grant Specialist.

"Programs like Gather for the Cure and Care for Yourself help uninsured individuals or those facing financial hardship access the screenings they need."

According to the American Cancer Society, there were an estimated 3,030 new cases of female breast cancer in Iowa and 12,340 in Illinois in 2026.

"Breast cancer statistics aren't just numbers-they represent our mothers, sisters, friends, and loved ones. Behind every diagnosis is a person whose life can be saved by early detection and treatment," said Angerer.

For more information on the voucher program, go to MercyOne.org.