HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. — The Pardee Hospital Foundation’s Annual Women Helping Women Luncheon, presented by First Bank, held Friday, October 24 at Blue Ridge Community College, brought together more than 430 guests for an inspiring afternoon of compassion, community, and hope — and a record-breaking year of support for women’s health in Henderson County.
Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, donors, and attendees, this year’s event raised over $139,000, the highest total in the program’s history. These funds will directly support women in our community who are uninsured or underinsured, ensuring access to essential and often lifesaving care — from mammograms and diagnostic imaging to surgery, treatment, and beyond.
This year’s keynote speaker, Jamie Valvano, daughter of legendary basketball coach Jim Valvano, inspired attendees with her moving story of resilience and hope, challenging everyone to “believe in the impossible” and live with a bold, audacious vision. Her words inspired attendees to carry forward the Women Helping Women mission with renewed purpose.
Guests were also moved by the story of Sterling Woodruff, who shared her journey as a breast cancer survivor alongside her UNC Health Pardee breast surgeon, Dr. Jennifer McAlister. Their story reflected the true heart of Women Helping Women — ensuring that every woman has access to the care and compassion she needs during life’s most challenging moments.
The Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who made this year’s event possible, including Presenting Sponsor, First Bank; Diamond Sponsors, Brian & Gail Garren, Meliora House of Design/Andrea Martin, and Fireside Golf; and Women of Hope Sponsors, Associated Land Surveyors and Planners, PC, Construction Specialties & Design Builders, Inc., Charlotte Corrigan, Marty Cornwell, Angie Edgell, Patricia Haire, Idaph Events + Timing, LS3P, Dr. Neal and Ann Dennison Marrano, Carol Morrison, Robinson Hill Humanitarian Fund, Stuller Power Solutions, and Vannoy Construction, as well as the many Silver, Ruby and Pearl sponsors who contributed to this year’s success. Special thanks are also extended to the dedicated Women Helping Women Committee whose leadership and passion continue to drive this mission forward.
In addition to the luncheon, community partners across Henderson County found creative ways to give back throughout October in support of Women Helping Women. From restaurant givebacks to golf, tennis, and pickleball tournaments, to walk and run events, these efforts collectively made a meaningful difference. The Foundation is deeply grateful to businesses and organizations including Tooley’s Café, AlyKat Deli, Green River BBQ, Campfire Grill, Champion Hills, Lake Pointe Landing, Hendersonville Country Club, Fireside Golf, and Andrea Martin for hosting events and donating portions of sales to support women’s health initiatives. Their dedication and enthusiasm demonstrate the power of community coming together for a common cause.
Since its founding in 1997, Women Helping Women has raised more than $3.4 million to help local women access the care they need. What began nearly three decades ago as an effort to provide mammograms to uninsured women has grown into a vital program that offers assistance for a wide range of medical services, ensuring that women in our community receive care close to home where they are seen, valued, and supported.
“Each year, this event reminds us of the incredible compassion and strength within our community,” said Amy Treece, Executive Director, Pardee Hospital Foundation. “The generosity of our donors, sponsors, and volunteers truly transforms lives and ensures that women in our community never face a health crisis alone.”
About Pardee Hospital Foundation
The Pardee Hospital Foundation raises funds to support UNC Health Pardee in delivering exceptional healthcare close to home. Since its founding in 1996, the Foundation has worked alongside generous donors and community partners to fund lifesaving technology, critical programs, and facility enhancements that advance patient care throughout Western North Carolina. To learn more, visit pardeehospitalfoundation.org.
