Storm Foundation will donate $20,000 to Swedish Cancer Institute’s Patient Assistance Fund and help promote early cancer screening and prevention 

SEATTLE — The Seattle Storm will host “Storm Out Cancer Night” presented by Swedish Cancer Institute on July 11, at 3 p.m. PT, as the team faces the Phoenix Mercury at Angel Of The Winds Arena, in Everett, Wash., for its last game before the WNBA Olympic break. The Storm Foundation will donate $20,000 to the Swedish Cancer Institute’s Patient Assistance Fund to help in the fight against cancer while the health care provider promotes early screening around the arena.

“We are so proud to support the incredible, innovative and life-saving work of our longtime partners Swedish and the Swedish Cancer Institute,” said Alisha Valavanis, Seattle Storm President and CEO.

Swedish Cancer Institute’s Patient Assistance Fund provides patients and their families with financial support for an array of items and services, including utility bills, wheelchairs and walkers, rent and mortgage assistance, skilled nursing and home care. Food banks, clothing banks, patient transportation and comfort therapies for hospice patients are also part of this program.

The Storm will honor Dr. Sara Jo Grethlein, the institution’s Executive Director, who will also accept the $20,000 check alongside Swedish CEO Dr. Guy Hudson during the first quarter. In addition, representatives from the Cancer Institute will be present at the arena handing out flyers and giveaways to educate and encourage fans on early cancer screening at a time when people have put a halt on seeking preventative care during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“We’re honored to present “Storm Out Cancer” this year with our incredible partner, the Seattle Storm,” said Dr. Sara Jo Grethlein, Swedish Cancer Institute Executive Medical Director. “The time has never been more urgent to talk about the importance of cancer screening and early detection. It is safe to come back to the hospital and clinics, and to get back to preventative care. We have safety protocols in place and our teams are ready to support the community.” 

This is the sixth year the franchise has partnered with Swedish to promote cancer awareness. In previous seasons, the franchise has auctioned game-worn items during Breast Health Awareness Nights, with the proceeds from bids also benefiting the Patient Assistance Fund. To date, the Storm and fans have raised over $100,000 for the Swedish Cancer Institute. In 2021, Storm fans can continue helping by donating to the institution here.

The Storm currently sits atop the WNBA standings and will have the chance to improve its 15-4 record with back-to-back games against the Phoenix Mercury today at 6 p.m. PT, at the Phoenix Suns Arena, in Phoenix, and Sunday, July 9, at 3 p.m. at Angel Of The Winds Arena, in Everett, Wash.

—— StormBasketball.com ——