HOWELL, Mich. - The 2009 St. Joseph Mercy Livingston Golf Classic is scheduled for Monday, June 1 at Prestwick Golf Club in Highland, Mich. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the shotgun start is at 10:30 a.m. Lunch is provided on the course and a dinner and awards banquet will conclude the event.

Proceeds from this year's event will be used to meet the immediate needs of uninsured and underinsured patients receiving care at the Warren R. and Lauraine A. Hoensheid Cancer Center by providing medications, transportation and office visit co-payments.

'St. Joseph Mercy Livingston is dedicated to providing care to all in need, especially the underserved. And, the number of uninsured or underinsured patients seeking cancer services is growing,' comments Sandy Radtke-Gerkin, vice president of Healthcare Business Banking, National City Bank and chair of the 2009 St. Joseph Mercy Livingston Golf Classic.

With Michigan's current economic realities, many are forced to choose between groceries or a doctor's appointment and gas or medications.

'Sadly, these are unacceptable choices that require coordinated relief,' according to Erin Mulvihill, an oncology social worker with Saint Joseph Mercy Health System. 'I speak daily with patients that endure the burden of illness and make difficult decisions between caring for their families or caring for their health,' she informs.

The goal of the event is to raise $80,000 to help meet these needs.

Participants of the Golf Classic are treated to an all-inclusive day of golf at one of the area's finest, private courses. Sponsorship opportunities ranging from $350 - 25,000 are available and ticket prices start at $350 per person.

To participate as a golfer or sponsor, call Susan Hammersmith at 734-712-8684.