The Forks Hospital Foundation hosted a sold-out Surf & Turf Dinner and Auction on Feb. 15 at the Rainforest Arts Center, drawing a lively crowd to support the purchase of a 3-D mammogram imaging machine estimated at $500,000. Around $100,000 has already been raised, when $250,000 is reached it will unlock a matching donation, bringing the final goal within reach.

The evening featured silent and live auctions, with additional items for bid on Facebook before and after the event. Forks Community Hospital CEO Heidi Anderson welcomed guests and thanked the dedicated hospital staff who helped organize and set up the event, all while still working their daily jobs. Local organizations and staff members contributed creatively decorated bras, displayed along the back wall as part of the fundraiser. A moving video tribute featured local cancer survivors, many diagnosed in their 40s, emphasizing the importance of early detection and mammograms in saving lives.

The evening’s auctioneer, Rod Fleck, kept the crowd entertained with his energetic banter, sparking generous bidding wars. Among the donated auction items were themed baskets, artwork, local lodging, float trips, and gift certificates. In a fun nod to the rising cost of groceries, a dozen farm-fresh eggs fetched an impressive $80.

A delicious meal was prepared by Shelley Castellano and served by Forks High School Honor Society members, who also assisted in sharing auction items with the crowd, during the live auction.

For those who missed the event, donations are still being accepted to help fund the mammogram imaging machine:

Send checks to Forks Hospital Foundation, 530 Bogachiel Way, Forks, WA 98331 (Payable to Forks Hospital Foundation)

This heartwarming and generous community effort brings Forks closer to ensuring lifesaving breast cancer screenings for all on the West End.