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| Michele (center) at the 2011 Save the Breast Fest. |
Three years ago, breast cancer survivor Michele Hogsett created an event, Save the Breast Fest, to raise money for breast cancer. Hogsett was diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2008 and was connected with Screening for Life, a state program that provides payment for cancer screening tests to qualified Delaware adults, to get a mammogram and biopsy. The Women’s Mobile Health Screening (WMHS) Van Staff introduced Michele to the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition’s peer mentor program where she met program managers Lois Wilkinson and Cheryl Doucette.
Michele is the lead singer of popular cover band, Semiblind, and decided to use her talent and resources to create the Save the Breast Fest event. The event features live music from local bands along with raffles and contests. The event has been held at different locations each year. This past year, the event featured 8 bands and was held at Oasis Bar & Grill in Whaleyville, Maryland during Delmarva’s Bike Week.
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| Michele performing at a DBCC event in December 2010. |
Michele explains the goal for the event is to raise awareness. She wants to spread the message of breast self exams and early detection, especially to a younger demographic of women. Michele says she chose to give the proceeds to DBCC because she was looking for an organization that helped local women. “DBCC is a priceless resource for women of the Eastern Shore,” Michele said. “I appreciate all of the support that DBCC has given me.”
Michele is excited that Save the Breast Fest has support from the community. “This year’s event was great. We had people volunteer and offer raffle prizes without being asked. We were also approached about making it an official event of Delmarva Bike Week next year which is exciting!”
Visit the Save the Breast Fest Facebook page to learn more and see event photos.
Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition 