Chicago City Wire

The Kay Yow Cancer Fund has joined forces with the WNBA's Chicago Sky and Equal Hope to enhance cancer education, screening, and support for women in need across Chicago. This partnership will be highlighted during the Women’s Cancer Awareness Game on May 29 at Wintrust Arena, where the Chicago Sky will play against the Dallas Wings.

For the first time, this game is recognized as an official Play4Kay event. The Play4Kay initiative honors Coach Kay Yow’s legacy by uniting communities in combating cancers affecting women. Proceeds from this event, matched by a grant from the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, will aid Equal Hope in its mission to improve access to essential cancer care services for underserved women.

Jenny Palmateer, CEO of the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, expressed gratitude for this collaboration: “We are honored to partner with Equal Hope and the Chicago Sky for this meaningful activation. Coach Yow believed in the strength of community and the unifying power of sport. This partnership embodies that mission—driving real change through awareness, advocacy, and action.”

Equal Hope offers free screenings and support services aimed at eliminating health disparities among uninsured and underinsured women. Dr. Paris Thomas, CEO of Equal Hope, emphasized that "this game is about more than basketball" and aims to ensure equitable healthcare access regardless of socioeconomic status.

Tania Haladner from Chicago Sky remarked on their commitment: “The Chicago Sky are proud to stand with the Kay Yow Cancer Fund and Equal Hope to bring awareness and resources to the women of Chicago.”

Fans attending can participate by wearing pink or donating through partner organizations. Survivors will receive complimentary tickets.

Founded in 2007 by Coach Kay Yow herself after her breast cancer diagnosis in 1987, the Kay Yow Cancer Fund has since awarded $8.78 million in grants towards research and programs assisting underserved women.

The Chicago Sky is a professional women's basketball team established in 2005; they became WNBA champions in 2021.

Equal Hope focuses on providing critical health services while tackling healthcare inequalities across Chicago's communities.