Jan. 19, 2005
Columbia, Mo. - The University of Missouri Department of Athletics and the MU gymnastics program are teaming up with University of Missouri Health Care and Ellis Fischel Cancer Center to benefit breast cancer research and raise awareness about the issue. "Pink Out" presented by University of Missouri Health Care, will be held in conjunction with the MU gymnastics meet this Friday (January 21st) against Centenary at 7 p.m. at the Hearnes Center.
As one might surmise, pink will be the theme for the evening, as that is the color associated with breast cancer awareness. The Tiger gymnasts will wear commemorative pink leotards for the dual meet, and pink tee shirts will be given away to the first 500 fans in attendance.
Officials from Ellis Fischel Cancer Center will also be on hand with a screening booth available for fans, where they can get a skin screening or simply pick up information.
Fans can also help the cause financially, as $1 for each ticket sold for the meet will be donated to Ellis Fischel Cancer Center to benefit breast cancer research. Those in attendance will also be privy to a 25% discount off all pink merchandise in the Hearnes Tiger Team Store during the meet.
This special partnership is a unique opportunity to help raise awareness for breast cancer, said Dr. Charles Caldwell, Director of Ellis Fischel Cancer Center. "I'm really pleased about us joining together," said Dr. Caldwell. "This gives us the opportunity to get the word out to people about the importance of breast cancer research and getting regular screenings. Financially, the funds raised from this event will go directly to ongoing research programs here. We have a lot of top-notch research taking place on this campus, and every penny that is raised stays right here to help make a difference. We're very grateful to the Athletic Department for being such a good partner," he said.
Mizzou Director of Athletics Mike Alden is equally pleased to see the evolution of the "Pink Out" event. "We've had discussions in the past about partnering up with MU Health Care, so it is something that I'm very excited about coming together," said Alden. "It is amazing how many people are impacted by this disease. We have a chance here, as a high-profile member of the community, to help make a positive impact, and that's what an event like this is intended for," he said.
Tickets can be purchased for Friday's meet for $5 apiece for adults, and $3 for youth and seniors, and can be purchased in advance by calling the MU Athletic Ticket Office at 884-PAWS (7297).