The Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Durham Bulls have joined together for the second year to “Strike Out Cancer” (SOC). The program is designed to raise awareness for cancer and funds to support cancer research at Duke.

For every strikeout thrown by a Bulls pitcher during a home game in the 2010 season, Valeant Pharmaceuticals, Womble Carlyle, and UBS Financial Services of Raleigh will make a donation to the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Last year, the Bulls played 72 home games and notched 557 strikeouts, averaging a little over seven strikeouts per game and raising over $55,000!

“Cancer affects so many people,” says H. Kim Lyerly, MD, director of the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center. “I’m thrilled this partnership has continued, and grateful to our sponsors this year for joining with us to make a difference in the lives of people living with this disease.”

Christopher Bolen and Johnny Loper, the managing members of law firm Womble Carlyle’s Research Triangle Park and Raleigh offices, are behind the effort as a way to both help win the fight against cancer and contribute to a cause that helps the community at large.

Bolen and Loper agreed that, “We wanted to recognize and reward the hard work of our employees. Sponsorship of Strike Out Cancer allows us to do that by hosting an evening at the ballpark for our valued employees and their families, and at the same time, raise funds for cancer research at Duke.”

The Strike Out Cancer program runs all season. Donors who give $25 are entered into a monthly drawing for two Bulls tickets and a prize pack. Those who donate $50 will receive four Durham Bulls tickets. Donors of $125 will receive MVP Club passes and four Durham Bulls tickets.

Every fan who donates will see their name prominently displayed on the Bulls blue monster video board during the final home game in September, to which all donors will receive discounted ticket offers.  

“Cancer really is a monster of a disease,” said Jon Bishop, assistant general manager of the Durham Bulls. “I’m very proud of the program this year and how it has grown. I encourage all of our fans to participate. The new mobile giving campaign allows anyone with a cell phone to donate $5 for cancer research at Duke by texting 'SOC' to 50555.”

For more information about the Durham Bulls or to purchase tickets, visit www.durhambulls.com.

For more information on the event, contact Michelle Gailiun at 919-660-1306.