The Tanner Medical Foundation’s Mammogram Assistance Fund will host their first ever benefit concert called “Tunes for Ta-ta’s” Saturday, Oct. 24, from 4-11 p.m. Live music, food and beverages will be hosted at 302 South Street. This local event will celebrate those who have survived the disease and promote the proper awareness for it during Breast.
The concert will start at 4 p.m. and then continue throughout the evening. The lineup features bands from a range of blended genres including blues, rock and honky-tonk. Local bands including The Arkansas Toothpickers, Cross Plains Redemption, Whooping Creek Jam Band, Sweet and Salty, Blind Cadillac and Francisco Vidal Band are set to perform.
Jacob Skelton, owner and proprietor of 302 South Street and his friend, Krista Arthur, are the founders and organizers of the event. Both Skelton and Arthur have been affected by breast cancer in their families and wanted to put on an event to promote awareness for the cause. They also wanted to support Tanner Medical Foundation’s Mammogram Assistance Fund, which is committed to providing assistance to the community.
“Since each woman has a one in eight chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer at some point, raising awareness about the importance of early detection and regular check- ups is crucial,” Skelton said. “If through our efforts we can change one life for the better, it is worth it.”
The National Cancer Institute reported that lack of medical coverage, obstacles to early detection and inadequate access to improvements in cancer treatment are the reasons survival rates are low. Since only about 5-10 percent of breast cancer is inherited, this leaves a greater chance to reduce the risks of being diagnosed. While there are several steps to take in keeping your risk low, educating the community is one of the most important parts.
Skelton hopes that the event not only generates awareness in the Carrollton community, but also provides financial support through donations.
“People can donate towards the cause through purchasing event merchandise, food and beverages,” Skelton said. “Proceeds from Tunes for Ta-ta’s will be donated directly to Tanner Medical Foundation’s Mammogram Assistance Fund.”
The combination of financial and spiritual support should be just enough for the event to continue for years to come.
“It has been in the works for a couple of years, but this is the first year we have put on this event,” Skelton said. “This is the inaugural Tunes for Ta-ta’s, but we hope it to be the first of many.”
