The PINK Softball Tournament: A home run to strike out breast cancer.

On a sunny weekend in early July, 18 teams took to the field for a powerful cause—raising a record-breaking $95,000 in support of the Breast Clinic Wellness Program at the MUHC, led by Dr. Sarkis Meterissian.

Organized annually by the Dorval-based cancer awareness group The PINK, the tournament has become a cherished tradition rooted in community spirit, compassion, and hope. Founded in 2016 by Kathy Kennedy, whose personal experience with cancer inspired the event, the tournament has grown year after year thanks to her tireless efforts and those of her co-organizers Chantal Drouin and Maureen Dougherty.

“As a breast cancer survivor, seeing the community come together year after year fills my heart with gratitude,” shares Kathy. “Every team that signs up, every dollar raised, and every moment shared on the field brings us one step closer to a future where no woman has to face this disease alone. The dream is that one day, we won’t have to fear a breast cancer diagnosis at all,” shares Kathy.

Kicking off the day’s events, MUHC Foundation President and CEO Marie-Hélène Laramée threw the ceremonial first pitch and expressed her gratitude for The PINK’s meaningful contribution to breast cancer care:

“This is more than just a softball tournament, it’s a symbol of what’s possible when our community comes together,” says Laramée. “In just eight years, The PINK has raised more than $340,000 for breast cancer care and research at the MUHC. That’s an extraordinary impact, and we are so grateful for their continued commitment.”

While many softball enthusiasts gathered for the event, what truly united everyone was a shared commitment to supporting their community in the ongoing fight against breast cancer—a disease that touches us all in some way.

“Kathy and I have been friends for many years. When she went through her breast cancer diagnosis, I saw firsthand how important it was to support women going through that. I knew I wanted to help in any way I could. What started as a simple memorial game has grown into something so much bigger—bringing people together, raising awareness, and making a real impact,” shares Chantal, Co-Organizer of the PINK Softball Tournament.

For too many women, remission isn’t the victory it should be. After the stress and anguish of diagnosis, treatments, side effects, and surgery, they are physically and emotionally depleted. The MUHC Breast Clinic Wellness Program provides personalized, holistic support throughout every stage of the cancer journey to help women thrive. Funds raised through this year’s event are directly supporting these services.

“The support we receive from The PINK and this incredible tournament helps us care for the whole person—not just the disease,” shares Dr. Sarkis Meterissian, Director of the MUHC’s Breast Clinic. “Thanks to their generosity, our patients can access the physical, emotional, and psychological resources they need to truly heal and thrive.”

The tournament’s fundraising model is simple but powerful: every player asks 10 friends for $10. Combined with community raffles, food stands, and team spirit, it all adds up to big impact. Since its inception, the tournament has helped hundreds of women receive the compassionate, tailored care needed to feel like their best selves again.

“The energy on the field and in the stands is incredible—it shows just how powerful our momentum is to strike out breast cancer. Some of us are survivors. Many of us have lost someone we love. That’s why we play—to remember, to support, and to keep fighting,” adds Maureen, Co-Organizer of the PINK Softball Tournament.

The MUHC Foundation extends its deepest thanks to everyone who played, donated, volunteered, and cheered from the sidelines––because it’s your ceaseless support that brings us closer to a future free from breast cancer.

You still have an opportunity to make a difference by directly supporting compassionate care at the Breast Clinic Wellness Program––Donations are being accepted until the end of October. Click here to learn more.