by AMANDA WINTERS

Sequim Gazette

More than 150 women wearing outrageous hats came together for a sensible cause Oct. 1  at the 13th Annual Mad Hatter’s Tea.

Aside from raising awareness about breast cancer, proceeds from the $30 tickets for the tea went to benefit the Olympic Medical Cancer Center and provide mammograms to low-income women through Planned Parenthood.

The hats donned by attendees included feathers, lace, ribbons, playing cards and even breasts fashioned from pink balloons and bras. Carol Goodman, of Sequim, didn’t wear a hat but instead dyed her hair bright pink.

Cheryl Coulter, who presided over the event, gave $1,500 checks to each of the organizations at the end of the event. During a time to honor survivors, Coulter called on those who had survived breast cancer for more than 25 years to stand. Two stood and were applauded. She then called on those who survived 15 to 25 years and about five women stood. By the time all survivors were standing there were close to 20. The audience applauded then stood to join hands and recite a pledge of support.

The annual tea party began in 1998 as a luncheon between a small group of friends wanting to support Jan Chatfield, who was fighting a second round with breast cancer. She died nine months later but is still honored at each event, with her photo on display among the decorations.

This year the main speaker was Dr. Rena Zimmerman, a radiation oncologist with the Olympic Medical Cancer Center. Zimmerman cleverly placed small depictions of hats throughout her presentation.

Roxanne Fryer, of Sequim, shared her personal story about fighting breast cancer and Amanda Bacon sang at the event.

Reach Amanda Winters at awinters@sequimgazette.com.