The Woman's Cancer Association of the University of Miami is one of Sylvester Cancer Center's oldest, most loyal and dedicated group of supporters. The Woman's Cancer Association is an organization composed of civic-minded women, who have for over 40 years been raising funds in the battle against cancer.

The beginnings of the Woman's Cancer Association were humble. At the Association's first meeting, there were only 28 members and a treasury of $13. By 1963, the Association broadened its scope of service into 18 chapters nationwide with a membership of hundreds of volunteers. Currently, this group of hard-working women has raised and donated over $8.7 million to the University of Miami School of Medicine in support of cancer research and patient care.

Among the Association's numerous fund raising projects is the Bargain Box, a thrift store located at 1350 West Flagler street. The Bargain Box provides the primary source of funds to the Cancer Association, while providing great bargains to the community. Mary Nolan, herself an ardent and devoted volunteer of the Association for almost 43 years, is in charge of the Bargain Box.

"My involvement with the Association began when my parents died of cancer," says Mrs. Nolan. "The Woman's Cancer Association is my favorite charity; my family comes first, and the WCA comes second."

Another rewarding fund raising project of the Woman's Cancer Association is the Mollie Bush Silver Lady Fund. This fund, composed of donations of birthday dollars by members, as well as proceeds from the WCA Annual Silver Lady Tea, provides supplementary funds to indigent cancer patients.

The Woman's Cancer Association has also established an endowment, currently at over half a million dollars, for cancer research at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. This fund honors the memory of Pearl M. Powell, a former member of the Franklin C. Bush Chapter of the Woman's Cancer Association.

Just recently, the Woman's Cancer Association held its annual installation and awards luncheon at the Riviera Country Club. Gail Highland, current president of the Woman's Cancer Association presented this year's check to Dr. W. Jarrard Goodwin, director of the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. This year's proceeds have totaled over $359,000, an amount they hope to surpass next year with new projects and events. Gail Highland challenged all members to continue to "make magic happen" in the fight against cancer.

If you would like to join the Woman's Cancer Association, please call 305 643-2945.