JAMESTOWN – The Italian American Charity Golf Association recently presented WCA Hospital with a $50,000 check, proceeds from their 2013 golf tournament and other fundraising activities. This was the final installment of the IA’s three-year, $150,000 pledge to enhance local cancer care at WCA Hospital through the purchase of a Fluoroscopic C-Arm.

“The Italian-American continues to build upon a firm foundation of success, thanks to the outstanding commitment of our volunteers and the annual investment of our sponsors who are firmly committed to enhancing local cancer care,” said Jack Munella, Jr., Chair of the Italian American. “We are so grateful for the selfless donation of their time and resources, because we know our families and friends will continue to be well served at WCA Hospital.”

The Fluoroscopic C-Arm is an imaging device used to guide a needle or guide wire while watching it on a live X-ray screen and is especially useful for a variety of diagnostic and interventional procedures. Related to cancer care, the Fluoroscopic C-Arm will be used to guide placement of PICC lines and medical ports for all cancer patients who will be receiving chemotherapy, chemotherapy with concurrent radiation, and/or long-term IV medications, and would also be utilized for additional imaging during cancer-related surgeries.

“On behalf of WCA Hospital and those battling cancer whom we are so privileged to serve, I want to thank the IA for their unwavering dedication,” said Betsy T. Wright, President/CEO of WCA Hospital. “This technology will enhance our cancer program and truly benefit many of our patients.”

The 44th annual Italian American Golf Tournament is scheduled for June 12-14, 2014, once again at Holiday Valley in Ellicottville. Since its inception in 1971, the Italian American Charity Golf Association has contributed over $1.1 M to support local cancer diagnosis, treatment, and care.

The Italian American Charity Golf Association event was the brainstorm of a small group of community-minded men who wanted to raise money for a local charity. Their dream was to create a golf tournament where one member of each two-man team was of Italian descent and the partner was of another nationality. Charitable gifts to the IA are accepted on-line through PayPal at www.IACharityGolf.com, or can be mailed to: Italian American, PO Box 352, Jamestown, NY 14702-0352.