In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the nonprofit organization Power in Pink-Iron County held its annual run/walk on Saturday, Oct. 4, to raise funds for breast cancer patients undergoing treatment at the Cedar City Cancer Center.
The event began at West Canyon Park at 8:30 a.m. with two starting points. Walkers headed up the canyon trail toward the mountains, while runners followed a marked route northwest through the tunnel to Bicentennial Park and back.
Both groups concluded the race at the park and participants received medals and swag bags, with socks, hot-water bags and snacks. A photo booth was also available for attendees to capture post-race pictures.
“It was amazing. We had over 200 participants and had a record number of volunteers,” said Power-in-Pink Board Member Deena Marchal.
During the event, Reuben Togasola of DMK Entertainment provided sound and music, while Sydney Rasmussen performed a song of Lauren Daigle’s “Rescue.” Then, the program concluded with a moment of silence honoring breast cancer survivors and those who have lost their battle with the disease.
With the number of women in treatment at Cedar City Cancer Center rising from 15 to 37 over the years, Power in Pink-Iron County continues to raise awareness through events and promote early detection and support.
“The best thing to do is to catch it early so that you don’t have to go through such rigorous treatment,” advised Marchal. “Do your annual exams, mammograms and all of these things. Take care of your ‘girls.’ ”
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends women begin biennial mammogram screenings at age 40 and continue through 74, though it’s never too late to start. Power in Pink-Iron County’s website offers additional resources on prevention strategies.
Since the organization’s founding 13 years ago, this annual run has raised $84,000, with an additional $15,000 raised this year. All donations support patients’ needs, including prescription costs, prosthetics, wigs, housecleaning, fuel and other expenses.
Southern Utah University will host its Pink Out Football game on Oct. 18, to show your support make sure to attend and wear pink.
Author: Fanny Felixine
Editor: Heather Turner
Photos by Margaux Feret
life@suunews.net
