Funds Raised to Benefit Area Women in Need with Free 3D Mammograms

McLaren Flint’s free mammogram program not only promotes breast cancer awareness, but this year will also provide 3D mammogram screenings for 150 uninsured, at-risk, low-income women throughout Genesee County. Funding is made possible by the partnership between the McLaren Flint Foundation and the Flint Firebirds, and the generous sponsors who support the annual “Pink out the Rink for Mamms” hockey game held each October.

October is nationally recognized as breast cancer awareness month. This year, it is more important than ever to remind women of the importance of getting their annual mammogram. Too many people are foregoing their annual health check-ups and screenings due to the ongoing pandemic. These annual appointments are vital in identifying health concerns early. When it comes to cancer, the earlier it is detected, the better the outcomes. If detected early, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer is 98 percent. Patients can be assured health care providers are offering safe care. McLaren is proud to offer all women the newest technology in 3D breast imaging.

McLaren Flint employees and auxiliary volunteers, Flint Firebirds fans, the players’ family members and sponsors support this special event each year. The fundraiser includes a puck drop with breast cancer survivors and special jerseys worn by the players which are raffled off after the game. Devoted sponsors include Diagnostic Radiology Associates, The Pink Par-Tee, HED, The HCS Group, VeinSolutions, Goyette Mechanical, Precision Painting, McLaren Health Plan, Flushing Youth Tackle Program and the AFLCIO & AFSCME Local 25.

 “With 3D mammography technology, we can see breast tissue much more clearly and detect cancers that are much smaller and at an earlier stage,” said Linda Lawrence, MD, board certified radiologist and medical director of the McLaren Imaging Center. “Earlier detection of breast cancer means greater survival rates for patients.”

To qualify for the McLaren Flint free mammogram program, women must be:

• Uninsured
• 40 years or older- physician order not required for screening mammogram
• Under 40 years of age with high risk factors
• Resident of Genesee County with proof of address and a Social Security number
• Have a family physician to receive mammogram results. Patients without a primary care physician can establish one at the McLaren Family Medicine Residency center by calling (810) 342-5656.

Those who qualify may schedule their 3D Mammogram by calling the McLaren Flint Imaging Center at (810) 342-4800.

Although circumstances will not make an in-person “Pink Out the Rink for Mamms,” fundraiser possible this year, the community can still support the program. Donations can be made by calling McLaren Flint Foundation at (810) 342-4087, or online at mclaren.org/flintfoundation.