2nd Annual “Speak PINK” Raises Funds for Breast Cancer Programs, Research at Levine Cancer Institute

On May 17, over 300 people gathered at the Westin in Uptown Charlotte to raise funds and awareness for local breast cancer programs and research. The second annual Speak PINK, sponsored by Charlotte Radiology and hosted by Carolinas HealthCare Foundation, featured a luncheon, and special presentations from breast cancer survivors and physicians.

The event benefits the Carolinas Breast Cancer Fund at the Foundation, which supports breakthrough breast cancer research conducted by physicians and scientists at Levine Cancer Institute. In addition, it provides funding for LCI: Project PINK, a program in partnership with Charlotte Radiology that offers accessible breast cancer screenings for lower income women.

A well-known group of speakers graced the stage during the event including: Moira Quinn, COO and Senior Vice President of Charlotte Center City Partners and a breast cancer survivor;

Dr. Richard White, Chief of the Division of Surgical Oncology at Levine Cancer Institute; and Susan Olsen, cancer survivor, mom of Carolina Panthers Tight End Greg Olsen. Olsen, who served as last year’s featured speaker, passed the baton to Bank of America’s Chief Technology Officer Cathy Bessant, who shared her intimate journey with breast cancer, alongside her daughter, Meredith Clay. Joe O’Connor, President and CEO of WFAE facilitated the conversation.

And Cathy is with us today – a survivor – thanks to early detection and the advances made by doctors, researchers and philanthropists who have given of their time, energy, and resources.