On Saturday, Feb. 11, Methodist University will host two events with all proceeds going towards the Kay Yow Cancer Fund and the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation’s Friends of the Cancer Center.
Methodist University is putting on a full court press in the fight against cancer.
On Saturday, Feb. 11, Methodist University will host two events with all proceeds going towards the Kay Yow Cancer Fund and the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation’s Friends of the Cancer Center:
- Play4Kay 5K Run/Walk: 9 a.m. at Monarch Stadium
- Play4Kay Women’s Basketball Game: 3 p.m. at March F. Riddle Center
“As a two-time breast cancer survivor and having lost a sister to breast cancer, Play4Kay raises money to help all women’s cancers,” said Vicki Watson, an MU Play4Kay volunteer. “My hope one day is that we will be in it to the end and no woman will ever have to hear the words, ‘You have cancer.’”
Hosted by MU’s Physician Assistant Program, the annual Play4Kay 5K Run/Walk will feature a fun race that starts and ends at Monarch Stadium. All participants who sign up in advance of the race are guaranteed a t-shirt. Though Thursday, Feb. 9, advance registration costs $20 for MU faculty, staff and students and $25 for the general public. Same-day registration costs an additional five dollars and does not guarantee a t-shirt.
In the afternoon, Methodist University will also host the 17th annual Play4Kay women’s basketball game against Brevard College. A silent auction will open an hour before tipoff, offering a variety of unique items: a hotel stay, photography package, football memorabilia, bakery items, Play4Kay jersey, a vintage “Methodist College” gym chair, golf-green fees, and more.
On top of the MU women’s basketball team donning new pink uniforms for the game, the University will also honor dozens of breast cancer survivors on the court at halftime.
“This event is extremely important to the MU community because of its connection with women’s basketball and the cause it supports,” said DeeDee Jarman, deputy director of athletics at MU. “Because of the vision Kay Yow had before she lost her battle to cancer, this event is bigger than anyone could imagine. Methodist University has raised more than $150,000 through Play4Kay events. I never would have thought it would be this successful.”
The game is free to anyone who wears pink and makes a small donation at the event. To purchase this year’s Play4Kay t-shirt, visit here.
“Unfortunately, it’s hard to find someone whose life has not been impacted by cancer in some way. This game allows us to honor loved ones, celebrate survivors, and provide encouragement for those who are currently in the fight,” said Cheryl McNair, head women’s basketball coach at MU.