Ascension Sacred Heart Bay And First Commerce Credit Union Flock Together For Breast Cancer

PANAMA CITY, FL. – Ascension Sacred Heart Bay and First Commerce Credit Union recently concluded the inaugural Bay County #FlamingoChallenge. The month-long fundraising event raised an impressive $15,463 to directly support breast cancer care services at Sacred Heart Bay.

The #FlamingoChallenge invited the community to purchase and display flocks of pink plastic flamingos at their homes and businesses — a playful yet powerful visual reminder of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the importance of early detection.

"We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming enthusiasm and generosity of the Bay County community and look forward to growing the Flamingo Challenge year after year," said Robin Godwin, President and CEO of Sacred Heart Bay. "The funds raised will directly and immediately benefit our breast cancer patients, providing vital support and resources right here at Sacred Heart Bay as they bravely fight this disease."

First Commerce launched the #FlamingoChallenge six years ago, and since then, the fundraiser has raised more than $640,000 to support patients and programs at hospitals across North Florida and South Georgia.

Funds from the #FlamingoChallenge help cover essential medical and non-medical costs, from life-saving imaging for uninsured patients to travel and lodging expenses for those receiving treatment far from home. Every dollar raised stays in the community, creating a real and visible impact where it matters most.

“The Flamingo Challenge is about more than fundraising. It’s about people,” said First Commerce CEO Cecilia Homison. “This year is especially exciting as we introduce the fundraiser in Bay County for the first time — a meaningful step in expanding our impact. Seeing the results culminate in patients receiving support that eases the burdens of breast cancer treatment reminds us why this effort matters so deeply to our team and our community.”

The overwhelming success of the #FlamingoChallenge ensures that patients and their families will have access to crucial services. Sacred Heart Bay and First Commerce extend their deepest thanks to all who participated and contributed to this impactful inaugural event.