Paras Pumpkins
By transforming giant pumpkins into celebrity look-alikes, Jeanette Paras has created a unique Halloween tradition that’s become an international sensation. From her Dublin, Ohio, studio, Jeanette has “pumpkinized” nearly 100 famous faces since 1988, delighting passersby and media alike.
What started as a whimsical idea has evolved into an annual event that captures global attention. Jeanetteʼs creations, weighing up to 700 pounds, have been featured on The Late Late Show with James Corden and The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Her Taylor Swift pumpkin, dubbed “Swiftkin,” garnered almost 900 media stories worldwide in 2023.
But for Jeanette, a two-time breast cancer “thrive-r,” this quirky tradition has taken on a deeper meaning. She now partners with the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research, using her platform to raise awareness and funds. “Let’s get some attention on breast cancer awareness,” she says. The artist aims to raise $5,000 for the fund, personally matching the first $2,500 in donations. Her commitment stems from personal experience; she credits early detection for her own survival.
Paras Pumpkins exemplifies the power of combining passion with purpose. As each October approaches, fans eagerly await the unveiling of her latest creation, all the while wondering which star will make the cut this year. Whatever character emerges, it’s sure to bring smiles, raise awareness and continue the legacy of Paras Pumpkins’ unique blend of art, humor and heart.
Chix with Stix
Celebrating its 26th annual event in September 2024, Chix With Stix once again demonstrated the power of women coming together for a cause. Highlighting how a little fun can go a long way in the fight against breast cancer, this women-only, ninehole “golf outing for non-golfers” has become a powerhouse fundraiser for the Stefanie Spielman Fund for Breast Cancer Research.
What began in 1999 with 30 participants has blossomed into a major event, drawing 172 golfers in recent years. The secret to their success? A perfect blend of competition, camaraderie and cause. Teams vie for the coveted “Team Spirit Award,” donning creative costumes that range from pirate-themed outfits to bridal parties, all while raising awareness and funding.
The architectural, design and commercial furnishings industries have rallied behind this effort, providing incredible support in the form of sponsorships and volunteers. Their backing has helped Chix With Stix generate over $600,000 in the last quarter century, a big win for breast cancer research.
Par-Tee Girls for Breast Cancer Research
For 14 years, the Par-Tee Girls have been teeing up hope in the fight against breast cancer. Led by the enthusiastic Pam Green, this dedicated ladies’ golf league has transformed their passion for the game into a powerful force for change.
What started as a simple idea to bring women together on the golf course has evolved into an annual fundraising phenomenon. The Par-Tee Girls’ golf event, held each July at Cumberland Trail Golf Club in Pataskala, Ohio, has become a beacon of support for breast cancer research, with recent proceeds benefiting the Stefanie Spielman Fund.
The cause hits close to home for the Par-Tee Girls. With five breast cancer survivors among their 24 members, the group’s commitment is deeply personal. Their experiences fuel the passion behind each event, inspiring participants to dig deep.
“Watching the journey that Stefanie [Spielman] and so many others have gone through, we decided that this was something that we could do to make a difference — from the girls, for the girls,” Green shares regarding how the group started. “We are a small group, but we are doing big work.”
This year’s outing, held on July 22, was another success. The afternoon saw a sea of pink golf carts, filled with laughter and determination as participants putted their way toward a cure.
Year after year, these inspiring women have shown that when it comes to fighting breast cancer, they are always above par. Their unwavering commitment continues to make a significant impact in the ongoing battle against this disease.
Community Partners Listing:
Thank you, supporters!
More than $160,000 raised by our Community and Corporate Partners
During the 2023-2024 fiscal year, our Community and Corporate Partners raised more than $160,000 for the Spielman Fund. Through golf outings, festivals, sporting events and many more creative endeavors, our partners are vital to the success of the Spielman Fund and are helping further our research and patient care. For more information about how to become a partner, visit us online at SpielmanFund.com or call 614-247-1952.
- Aladdin's Eatery Grandview Donation Day
- Association of Pickleball Players (APP) Women’s Open
- Byers Dublin Subaru Share the Love Campaign
- Cactus for a Cause at Oakland Nursery
- Carolyn Nutter Breast Cancer Fundraiser
- Central Ohio - United States Bowling Congress
- Chix with Stix Golf Outing
- College Traditions Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser
- Columbia Gas PINK Out for Breast Cancer Awareness
- Donn and Pamela Scheufler - Breast Cancer Fundraiser
- Driving Fore Cancer Research
- Durango Pink Boots Campaign
- Grove City High School Boys Soccer*
- Harvest Preparatory School Breast Cancer Awareness Month Fundraiser*
- Hat Trick Robinson
- Hutta & Price Orthodontics Pink Smiles Campaign
- Kendra Scott Gives Back
- Life's Short, Eat Dessert First
- Mark A. Miely, DDS Fundraiser
- Not Forgotten
- Ohio State Auxiliary, F.O.E.
- Ohio State Softball Charity Classic
- Par-Tee Girls Golf Rally for Breast Cancer Research
- Pink Frames for Breast Cancer Awareness
- Pink Out at Ohio State
- Pinktober - Dairy Queen Worthington Breast Cancer Awareness Month Fundraiser
- Rogue Fitness Breast Cancer Awareness Month Fundraiser
- Ryan Homes Fundraiser
- Smithville High School Cheerleaders - Cheer for a Cure*
- Stanberry Cup
- Superior Plus Realtors Breast Cancer Fundraiser
- Team 4 the Cure
*THE HONOR ROLL
Those partners with an asterisk are part of our Honor Roll. The Spielman Fund is honored that elementary, middle and high schools have chosen to direct their fundraising efforts to support us. Thank you for helping us create a cancer-free world!