Some people give because they are asked.
Others give because they have experienced firsthand the difference compassion can make.
For Debbie Harris, philanthropy began with a simple question she asked while receiving treatment at Pardee’s Cancer Center:
“How can I help other women?”
That question became a mission.
For nearly three decades, Debbi has faced breast cancer with extraordinary courage, resilience, and unwavering faith. Since her first diagnosis, she has endured multiple recurrences, surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and ongoing treatment for metastatic breast cancer. Through every challenge, she has chosen not to let cancer define her. Instead, she has used her experience to encourage others, offer hope, and ensure that women facing breast cancer know they are never alone.
Inspired by her own journey, Debbi and her family transformed gratitude into action by launching Puttin’ for Pink at Fireside Golf in 2023. What began as a family fundraiser has quickly become an annual tradition, bringing together survivors, caregivers, families, and supporters to celebrate hope while raising critical funds for Women Helping Women, a program of Pardee Hospital Foundation.
The event has become more than a fundraiser—it is a celebration of resilience, compassion, and community. Through the generosity of Debbi, her husband Mike, their daughters Maddison and McKenzie, their son Colby, the Fireside Golf family, sponsors, volunteers, and participants, Puttin’ for Pink continues to help local women receive the support and resources they need throughout their breast cancer journey.
“Debbi reminds us that philanthropy isn’t measured simply by dollars given,” said Amy Treece, executive director of Pardee Hospital Foundation. “It is measured by the love, compassion, and hope we share with others. She has taken one of life’s greatest challenges and transformed it into a mission that continues to encourage, uplift, and support women throughout our community.”
Debbi often says that everyone has a story. She believes that if we have the ability to help others, we also have a responsibility to do so. Her willingness to share her journey has inspired countless women and serves as a reminder that even in life’s most difficult moments, we each have the power to make a difference.
For her extraordinary generosity, unwavering faith, and dedication to helping others, Pardee Hospital Foundation was proud to recognize Debbi Harris as the 2026 Philanthropist of the Year during Pardee Royale.
Congratulations, Debbi, and thank you for showing our community what it truly means to love humanity through service, compassion, and hope.
