WHY WE EXIST
Pollyball was created after beloved wife, mother and sister Polly Hylant- Tracy lost her battle with breast cancer in 1990. The Hylant and Tracy families wanting to celebrate Polly and her love for backyard volleyball came together to create the event Pollyball. A volleyball tournament benefiting YWCA of Northwest Ohio’s Healthy Connections program. Since its inception in 1991 Pollyball has raised more than $1,500,000 to support early detection, education and awareness programs for those most underserved in our community.
THE LEGACY WE HONOR
Polly had the biggest smile and an infectious laugh. Her eight siblings remember her as the bright spot in the family. Polly played matchmaker for some and pranks on everyone. Her love of life is why the Tracy and Hylant families continue to support women’s health in Northwest Ohio. Watch this video to learn more about Polly Tracy Hylant.
The day begins with Polly’s favorite song “White Bird”. And while Polly may no longer be here with us she can still be found in the actions and lives of her daughters, Rachel, Lauren and Sarah, her grandchildren her husband Geof and in the hearts of her many family members and friends.
THREE WAYS POLLYBALL IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
The event that started as a small fund-raising event at La Jolla beach
volleyball courts benefitting the American Cancer Society has evolved into a
large-scale fundraiser held every August at a local park in downtown
Toledo.
EDUCATION
Breast health education sessions provided free of charge at community agencies, shelters, apartments, senior centers, clinics, health fairs, schools, churches and other areas where underserved women congregate.
Education on breast cancer and early detection methods leading to mammogram and clinical breast examinations for hundreds of women who need further testing and support.
CASE MANAGEMENT
Free, intensive case management services to women with abnormal breast symptoms and or a breast cancer diagnosis, regardless of income or any other circumstances.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
YWCA staff accompanies patients to medical appointments and home visits, provides transportation and helps connect patients to psycho- social programs to address non-medical needs, provides support for the family and ensures the patients understands all medical and treatment options given by health care providers.
Learn more about all the programs the YWCA has to offer here.
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