Golf Tourney Supports “Bosom Buddies”

On February 15, 2022, The Island Country Club’s (ICC) Women’s Golf Association sponsored a golf tournament followed by a luncheon to support “Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support, Inc"., a locally based, non-profit organization. The Collier County based organization is staffed solely by volunteer breast cancer survivors who assist the uninsured and underinsured who face a diagnosis of breast cancer. Via donations from the local community, they provide financial support for those needing diagnostic testing, biopsies and mastectomies. "Bosom Buddies" also provides peer support for those seeking information and comfort. Since 1994, they have received $5 million in donations. The luncheon, which was decorated in various shades of pink and featured strawberry breast cancer logo cupcakes, was attended by 74 women from the ICC who donated $8,000 to "Bosom Buddies".  Suellen Maxwell, Vice President of Bosom Buddies and a breast cancer survivor herself, thanked the attendees and emphasized how dependent the local community is on personal donations. Event co-chairs Grace Allmaier and Colleen Callahan selected “Bosom Buddies” as the WGA's designated charity due to the critical role the organization plays in the local community. They also endeavored to bring encouragement to those who are currently battling the disease, as well as family members and friends who provide support. As such, Marco Island Police Chief, Tracy Frazzano was the keynote speaker. She shared vignettes of her journey as police chief while battling breast cancer over the past two years. She provided examples of the amazing support she got from friends, the police and fire departments, as well as the overwhelming encouragement she’s received from the Marco Island community. Chief Frazzano expressed appreciation for her dedicated medical professionals and emphasized the importance of a strong peer support network. Chief Frazzano received a standing ovation for serving as a powerful role model while continuing to lead the Police Department admirably during the course of her treatment.