The MOMologues: Pink Ribbon Overdose Named to MGH's Prestigious 'the one hundred'

The writers of The MOMologues: Pink Ribbon Overdose, Lisa Rafferty, Jane McGovern and Pam Ahl, were honored for their philanthropic contribution to breast cancer outreach organizations as one of Massachusetts General Hospital's the one hundred.

The one hundred is Mass General Cancer Center's annual fundraiser, honoring 100 individuals and groups whose diligence and discoveries, philanthropy and passion have helped advance the fight against cancer. Funds raised at the gala support research, patient care, education and community outreach programs.

The 2011 honorees were celebrated at a gala on June 1, 2011, hosted by Academy Award winner Matt Damon. Event co-chairs included Teresa Heinz and Senator John Kerry, Patti and Jonathan Kraft, and Laura and Stephen Lang.

The one hundred honorees are comprised of scientists, physicians, caregivers, patients, advocates, volunteers, philanthropists and others who have contributed to the fight against cancer in creative and meaningful ways. Past honorees include Elizabeth Edwards and posthumously, Senator Edward Kennedy. "We are deeply honored to be recognized for our efforts to bring healing through shared laughter to other breast cancer survivors and their families," said Pam Ahl. Jane McGovern added, "It is incredibly gratifying to be honored alongside so many exceptional individuals and groups who are making a real difference in the lives of cancer patients."

The playwrights share the honor with cast members, including Erica McDermott (The Fighter), Ellie Fund Executive Director Julie Nations, and WCVB-TV network newswomen Bianca de la Garza, Susan Wornick and Karen Holmes Ward. Lisa Rafferty stressed that, "The show would not be receiving this recognition without the talent, commitment and high profile of our amazing cast. This is an honor we all share."

Finding the Funny in Breast Cancer

Boston area audiences know the work of writer-director Lisa Rafferty through her comedies about motherhood: The MOMologues and MOMologues2: Off to School, written with fellow moms Sheila Eppolito and Stefanie Cloutier. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2007, Rafferty's friends and family frequently asked if she would write a comedy about the experience. She was happy to oblige once she found willing collaborators who had gone through treatment and knew that looking for laughs in unlikely places helped enormously. When Rafferty's friend Pam Ahl reached out to her in June 2008 to share her stories, the comedic collaboration was born. One year later, Jane McGovern, longtime friend to both women, was diagnosed with breast cancer and the team was complete. The creators hope the show helps with the healing of their fellow survivors, friends and loved ones. Rafferty, McGovern, Ahl, along with MOMologue Productions, are proud to present The MOMologues: Pink Ribbon Overdose, the latest member of The MOMologues family.