Through Pool and Friendship, the Organization Nickels for Nipples was Born
Five years ago, a group of Hernando County friends and pool players united to support one of their own; a beloved lady named Sue Murphy who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. “We met at Capone’s in Spring Hill to play,” said group member Carole Phillips. “So this is where we decided to host a fund-raiser for Sue. We put out fund-raising jars labeled Nickels for Nipples. Now that is a name people would remember!”
Soon the Nickels for Nipples crew decided to extend their outreach, forming an organization to help others affected by this disease. On Saturday, October 21, at Capone’s, 10463 County Line Road in Spring Hill, the Fifth Annual Nickels for Nipples Breast Cancer Benefit Fundraiser and Pool Tournament once again will support families in this community who are battling breast cancer.
Breast cancer survivor Sue Murphy is now the president of Nickels for Nipples, spearheading this and other efforts along with Phillips and a five-member committee.
“Last year we raised more than $5,000 for our recipient,” said Phillips. “This year, we hope to help five individuals. This just keeps getting bigger and bigger.”
Proceeds from this tournament go to help families affected by breast cancer.
“Depending on what the families need, the proceeds might help these families put food on the table, or help to fund the nipple tattoo procedure that completes breast reconstruction,” said Phillips.
The event will center around a nine-ball tournament that anyone can play, with prizes awarded. Money ball games will be played as well, along with other games. Raffles will offer a myriad of gift certificates and gift baskets (including an original piece of ‘Hope’ art created by Hernando artist Sam Forrester), and a 50/50 drawing will be conducted. And swag bags will be awarded to the first 125 people.
“The gift certificates offer everything from restaurant meals to massage services,” said Phillips.
And, says Phillips, Nickels for Nipples T-shirts and merchandise will be available for sale.
“People always stop and ask about the shirts,” she said with a smile.
The admission price for the pool tournament is $40, with half the fee going to the tournament and half going to Nickels for Nipples. “Many winners donate their winnings back,” said Phillips.
Doors open at 10 a.m.; play commences at 11 a.m. Raffles, games and fun run from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., and a Bra Decorating Contest will be conducted. Decorated bras must be entered in the competition on or before Oct. 21 at 11 a.m., with all entrants displayed and voted on for prizes that include 1st place, a $100 Amazon Gift card, 2nd place, a $50 Amazon Gift Card, and a 3rd place $25 Texas Roadhouse Gift Card.
Those who would like to sponsor or donate an Item for the raffle should contact Sue at 352-428-6499.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Nickels for Nipples reminds people–both female and male–to do self-checks and to seek medical assistance if needed. And in Hernando County, the Nickels for Nipples crew will be there to support them–even as they continue to play a mean game of pool.
For more information about the 5th Annual Nickels for Nipples Breast Cancer Benefit Fundraiser and pool tournament, visit https://www.facebook.com/NickelsforNips.
