Bras for a Cause

Bras in Claremore will never be the same after the Boobdazzled Brassieres dinner and auction

Bras in Claremore will never be the same after the Boobdazzled Brassieres dinner and auction on Tuesday, October 13 at the RSU Centennial Center. These once discreet feminine undergarments will take on a new meaning as they raise funds for breast cancer research through humorous artistic expression.

This fun-filled event is a joint effort of the Healthy Woman Program of Claremore Regional Hospital and the Claremore Chamber of Commerce. It celebrates the first anniversary of Healthy Woman, honors breast cancer survivors during Breast Cancer Awareness month, and raises much-needed funds for breast cancer research.

Keynote speaker and Channel 6 news anchor LeAnne Taylor and dinner speaker Peggy Rice, whose husband, Dr. Larry Rice, is president of Rogers State University, are both survivors. They will share their journeys from tears to triumph.

After dinner, local auctioneer Rick Reimer will present dozens of sequined, feathered and rhinestoned boobdazzling creations for sale to the highest bidder. Everyone is sure to get a big hoot out of the play on words from the bras’ unique themes.

Since the bra-decorating contest began in the spring, the bras have been making the rounds of various public events in Claremore. “Voters” cast their ballots in the form of $1 bills for their favorite bra.

Even men have gotten behind the cause. Many tell stories of how they were touched by the experiences of their wives, mothers or sisters. “It is hard for any of us not to know someone who has been affected by breast cancer,” adds Peggy Trease, Claremore Regional Hospital marketing director.

A panel of eight judges comprised of business and community leaders will determine first, second and third prizes in the categories of creativity and presentation. The amount of money in each bra’s box will determine the winner of the People’s Choice category. All awards will be presented at the dinner and auction event.

Cheryl West, marketing coordinator for the hospital, says they hope to raise $10,000 during this premier event. “It’s a simple event, but a lot of fun for everybody.”

The Healthy Woman project began last year to educate women so they can make informed healthcare decisions for themselves and their families. The program offers free monthly seminars on various topics, information on health, communication, relationships and life balance issues, and networking opportunities for women of all ages. More than 400 women are currently enrolled. Membership is free.

Cheryl explains that the seven women who formed the Boobdazzled committee decided to put a humorous spin on a very serious issue as a way of calling attention to it. Committee members respect those who have suffered, those who endure, and those who have lost their lives to this horrible disease.

If you have an idea for a decorated bra, there is still time to submit an entry. The cost is $10 each. The contest closes on October 9. Entry applications and details are available at www.claremore.org.

Tickets for the dinner and auction are $20 per person and must be purchased in advance by contacting Cheryl West at (918) 342-6742 or Dell Davis at the Claremore Chamber of Commerce, (918) 341-2818.  Corporate tables are also available. The RSU Centennial Center is located at 1701 W. Will Rogers Blvd. in Claremore. If you are unable to make the dinner, you can show support by sending a donation to Healthy Woman Program, 1202 N. Muskogee Pl., Claremore, OK 74017. Note on your check:  “Boobdazzled.”

For more information, contact

Boobdazzled Brassieres

(918) 342-6742 or (918) 341-2818