A Pink Ribbon Quilt made by cancer survivors will be raffled and theater tickets, spa packages, gift baskets, trips, gift cards and more will be auctioned off starting at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Agrirama. All proceeds will go to the Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation. Raffle tickets are available from any foundation member, at Never the Same Boutique, 1801 Old Ocilla Road or at the Agrirama during the auction. The winner does not have to be present to receive the prize.

The foundation was formed several years ago by survivors who had experienced breast cancer themselves and who came together to raise money for those with cancer to help with prosthetics, special bras, wigs, lymphodema treatments, breast forms and camisoles and with living expenses like pharmacy and utility bills, clothing, gas cards and food.

“We were fortunate to have health insurance when we went through this,” Gail Fleming, an 11-year breast cancer survivor and member of the Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation, said. “There are a lot of people who don’t have that and need our help. We do what we can.”

From 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4 Tift Regional Medical Center will be providing free clinical breast exams in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month and in conjunction with the Foundation. Appointments are required and may be scheduled by calling 386-1300. Also, from 10 a.m. to noon the Foundation will be holding a free celebration brunch at the Masonic Lodge, open to the public.

“It’s really a chance to celebrate that fact that we have survived breast cancer and to educate our community about it.” Fleming said.

For more information on any of the Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation events visit their Web site at www.bcafoundation.com or call 382-3322.

To contact reporter Chivaun Perez, call 382-4321.