People can face many hardships in their life but getting a diagnosis for breast cancer can be one of the most difficult things a person can go through. Breast cancer is currently the fourth leading death caused by cancer in America. However, there are many organizations that have banded together to fight against this disease.

The American Cancer Society held an event called Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, a walk at Grangebel Park to raise money and spread awareness. The organizer for the walk, Brittany Lawton stated, that “the goal is to eliminate every cancer as a major health problem in every community”.

Their organization is the number one private funder for cancer research, providing free rides to treatment and free lodging for patients. They also have a 24/7 help line all year round. To find out more about them visit the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer official site.   

Despite the rainy weather this year, many walkers and vendors came to show their support, handing out pink memorabilia to symbolize breast cancer awareness.

One such vendor was Teacher Federal. One of their representatives said, that they were happy to be here rain or shine.

Stop and Shop also had a stand set up. A manager from that stand talked about how he had been doing events like these since he was a kid and was glad to now have the support of a company to bring awareness to this issue.

NYSUT, is an organization that includes the Pat-Med Teachers’ unit. Union President, Kevin Toolan said “we show up and were are proud to help.”

Many people there had family or were personally affected by breast cancer, the team leader of the Paramo Gas stand was a survivor of cancer.

Dave Lyons, president of PSEG long Island urged people to get screened for breast cancer.

Many people have not been tested in over two years due to the global pandemic, but early detection could mean life or death. So, I encourage you, the next time you hear of one of these events please attend, donate money, or even do some research and educate yourself on the issue of breast cancers and other cancers that may affect people.