St. Clair County Nonprofit Helps People Get Free Cancer Screenings and Support
A local group works with hospitals to fund medical care for St. Clair County residents without insurance. Taking A Shot At Breast Cancer steps in to cover costs – from…
A local group works with hospitals to fund medical care for St. Clair County residents without insurance. Taking A Shot At Breast Cancer steps in to cover costs - from medical bills to daily needs during treatment.
"It's important to support the patients in our community and let them know that they have a support system," Emily Goudy, the organization's founder, said according to The Keel.
Working with McLaren, Lake Huron, and Ascension River District hospitals, the group distributes aid. Their support extends to medical supplies, post-surgery garments, rent payments, childcare services, power bills, groceries, and transportation to medical visits.
The story began in 2014 when Emily and Steve Goudy watched their 28-year-old friend Candice battle stage 4 breast cancer. Their first project - selling calendars - brought in thousands for local medical centers.
Now they raise money through 5K events, galas, and sports team collaborations. Their next fundraiser takes place at the Port Huron Prowlers hockey match on March 21, 2026.
Last year brought big wins: $10,000 went to Ascension River District Hospital for new infusion chairs. Another $9,500 helped Hunter Hospitality House give patients temporary homes during treatment.
Board Vice President Lucie DeLine joined after facing cancer herself. "In that moment, it was like 'Why me?'" DeLine said. "I walked out kind of confused, thinking, so now what? What do I do?"
Free and low-cost cancer checks come through various county health programs. One key service - the Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program - targets those with limited means.
Breast cancer strikes hard, making up 30% of new women's cancer cases yearly across America, per American Cancer Society data. Yet death rates have dropped since 1989 as detection and care improve.
Local residents can access health screenings through three main channels: the county health office, Community First centers, and state navigation services.
