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Purple bows lined the streets of the Cypress Landing community this summer just as they have for many years.  A long-standing tradition started by residents who wanted to honor a friend and neighbor, Marion L. Shepard, has grown into a fundraiser that supports the Shepard Cancer Center. This year, the Cypress Landing community raised $18,360.

“It is amazing what rolls of ribbon, dedicated bow makers and a generous community can do to support local cancer patients, survivors and their caregivers,” said Mary Jane Cooke, one of the organizers of the annual bow campaign. This fundraiser would not be possible without the generous donation of ribbon by Deborah Page Wright with the Blythe House.  Mrs. Wright, a long-time supporter of the Cancer Center has donated every roll of ribbon that has been used throughout the years to make thousands of bows,” said Cooke.

Each bow sold supports the Shepard Cancer Development Council whose mission is to financially support the Marion L. Shepard Cancer Center in Washington in its efforts to improve the mind, body, and spirit of cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers.  In addition, the Development Council supports the cancer center in its efforts to promote prevention, early detection, and early treatment of cancer.

“Our Cancer Center and hospital are thankful to the many generous donors who have supported this simple, yet so powerful bow campaign fundraiser for cancer,” said Pam Shadle, director of marketing, community outreach and development at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital.  “So many cancer patients, cancer survivors along with their caregivers have been blessed by the generosity of our community.”