Liz Langsenkamp Rita Case and Sharon Florescue.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Celebrating its tenth year, the This One’s for the Girls! Luncheon raised more than $51,000. for the Holy Cross Hospital Partners in Breast Health program.

Holy Cross Hospital’s Partners in Breast Health program is dedicated to assisting underserved and uninsured women access to breast health by offering mammograms and health assessments, while also providing outreach education. Studies show that underserved and uninsured women are more likely to die from breast cancer due to lack of screenings and late-stage diagnoses, and the PIBH program is determined to change that.  Partners include the Harry T. Mangurian, Jr. Foundation, Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the 1000+ Club to Benefit Cancer, Inc.

The annual luncheon hosted by the Holy Cross Hospital Women Owning Wellness (WOW!) committee, is filled with fun and focused on charity, highlighting breast cancer awareness.

“This signature event brings together a wonderful group of women every year who are passionate about helping other women in our community,” said Holy Cross Hospital President and CEO Patrick A. Taylor, M.D. “Our Partners in Breast Health program fills a vital need in our community, but it would not be possible without the support of the WOW! committee, our sponsors and our passionate supporters.”

The highlight of this year’s luncheon was keynote speaker Keith Koenig, whose wife Doreen passed away from breast cancer in 2015. Koenig gave an emotional speech about Doreen’s tough journey with the disease, living life after her passing and how meaningful the Girlfriend’s Club at Holy Cross was to her. Doreen, who is Eternal Chair of the WOW Luncheon, the campaign to fund the $15 million Dorothy Mangurian Comprehensive Women’s Center at Holy Cross HealthPlex. Etched in glass in the lobby of the Women’s Center are the 200 members of the Girlfriend’s Club who donated funds as lifetime, founding members in support of the Women’s Center. Keith concluded his remarks by asking guests to continue to support Holy Cross Hospital’s efforts in the fight against breast cancer.

Guests enjoyed a pre-luncheon reception, shopping in the specialty boutique area for unique gifts, fashions and accessories, and a raffle with gift certificates from local restaurants and other donations from the boutiques.

WOW! President Nicki Rowntree along with Stacy Avera, Melissa Foster and Jenny Guerin chaired the luncheon. Honorary chairs were Alice Jackson and Mary Mullen.