Special to IFN
Former prisoner of war Jessica Lynch will be the keynote speaker at the Iredell Health Foundation’s third annual International Women’s Day Breakfast, presented by Fora Dermatology.
This inspiring and impactful event to celebrate women’s achievements and support the Women’s Health Fund at Iredell Health System is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 5, at The Cove Church in Mooresville. After the breakfast, attendees are welcome to stay for an additional hour for photos and book signings.
Proceeds from the event will assist qualifying women who cannot meet the financial obligation for health and preventive services, such as mammograms, ultrasounds and other diagnostic screenings.
Lynch, a former U.S. Army Private First Class, gained national attention after becoming a prisoner of war during the Iraqi war in 2003. She became the first POW to be rescued since World War II and the first female POW rescued in U.S. history. Lynch is now a published author, motivational speaker, and advocate for military families.
Balancing a demanding career with motherhood is no easy feat. Alicia Ibanez, physician assistant and COO at OptiMed Hospitalists, will provide valuable insights on achieving work-life balance as a single mother of three young children.
The master of ceremonies for the breakfast is Molly Grantham. The former news anchor is a four-time Emmy Award winning journalist, author of three books, mother of three young children, and founder of a pediatric non-profit network.
The recipent of the 2025 Uplift Woman of the Year Award will also be announced. This award is given to a remarkable woman in the community who is dedicated to uplifting others, providing guidance, and encouraging individuals to live their fullest lives while striving for greatness. Nominations for this award are accepted each year from March through November. To nominate a woman who inspires and uplifts you, email foundation@iredellhealth.org.
“The breakfast will be a morning of inspiration, empowerment, and impact as we celebrate the many accomplishments of women and inspire the next generation of courageous women,” said Kim Holland, development coordinator at Iredell Health Foundation. “Investing in women’s health is investing in our community’s future.”
Megan Niezgucki, director of Operations at Fora Dermatology, said the organization is honored to sponsor the event.
“Our commitment to supporting and uplifting women aligns perfectly with the mission of the Women’s Day Breakfast: to celebrate the achievements of women and inspire future leaders in our community. This partnership underscores Fora Dermatology’s dedication to fostering a culture of resilience, innovation, and inclusion,” she said. “By supporting this meaningful event, the organization reaffirms its belief in the power of women’s unique voices and their transformative impact on society.”
Sponsors
The presenting sponsor is Fora Dermatology, and breakfast sponsor is Randy Marion. Several sponsorship opportunities are still available, including Friends of Iredell for $2,500, which comes with eight tickets, publicity and media exposure, and a signed copy of Jessica Lynch’s book. Individual tickets are $85 per person, or you can sponsor a table of eight for $600. These tickets can be used for yourself or donated to women in non-profit organizations such as The Christian Mission, FeedNC, and Pharos Parenting.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased online at ifnwomen.org. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available.
LEARN MORE
For further details about the event and sponsorship opportunities, visit ihfwomen.org, or email foundation@iredellhealth.org, or call 704-878-7669.
About Iredell Health Foundation
The Iredell Health Foundation is a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization responsible for philanthropy for Iredell Health System. It supports the system’s programs and services through donor-centered fundraising. The Foundation focuses on raising community awareness of specific programs that need funding and provides individuals and organizations hoping to make a difference and leave a legacy the opportunity to support local healthcare needs of their choice. To learn more, or to make a donation, visit www.iredellhealthfoundation.org or call 704-878-4547.