The AdventHealth Polk Foundation has announced its inaugural “Paddles for a Purpose Pickleball Classic,” a community fundraiser supporting breast cancer detection in Polk County.
The tournament is scheduled for Friday, April 10, at The Courts of Gary and Dr. Naomi Boyer and is presented by Amy and Ed Laderer. Proceeds will go toward the purchase of new 3D mammography equipment for the AdventHealth Heart of Florida campus, aimed at expanding access to advanced imaging and improving early detection locally.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States. The American Cancer Society reports that one in eight women—about 13%—will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Health experts identify mammography as the most effective early detection method, capable of identifying cancer years before symptoms appear. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends women ages 40 to 74 at average risk receive a mammogram every two years.
The event will feature open doubles play with Community and Champion divisions based on USA Pickleball skill levels. A “Play with a Pro: 3 & Me” session will follow at 2 p.m., offering participants on-court instruction from a professional athlete.
SOURCE: CITY OF LAKELAND
