The AdventHealth Polk Foundation announced on Mar. 25 that registration is open for its first Paddles for a Purpose Pickleball Classic, an event designed to raise funds for breast cancer screening in Polk County.
The tournament aims to support the purchase of new 3D mammography equipment at the AdventHealth Heart of Florida campus, which organizers say will expand access to advanced imaging and improve early detection efforts locally. Breast cancer remains the second most common cancer among women in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The American Cancer Society estimates that about one in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime, while health experts say regular mammograms are crucial for early detection.
Leigh Ann Wynn, executive director of the AdventHealth Polk Foundation, said: “This event is about coming together as a community to make a real difference in the lives of those who call this area home.” Wynn also said: “The AdventHealth Polk Foundation is grateful to community members for their support as we look to invest in this important technology that will lead to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes for our neighbors, friends and families.”
Scheduled for Friday, April 10 at The Courts of Gary and Dr. Naomi Boyer in Polk City, the event includes open doubles play with divisions based on self-identified USA Pickleball Skill Levels. There will also be a ‘Play with a Pro: 3 & Me’ session after the main tournament featuring coaching from an All Florida Pro League athlete.
Pickleball has become increasingly popular across Polk County, offering residents opportunities not only for recreation but also community engagement around important causes such as healthcare access. Registration is currently open and local residents are encouraged by organizers to participate or support advanced breast cancer screening initiatives.
Located in Orlando, Florida, AdventHealth Orlando was founded in 1908. Its current president is Terry Shaw. The hospital has a pediatric ward and serves as a training hospital according to AdventHealth Orlando.
