During October, the color pink becomes a symbol for breast cancer awareness and support. Over the years, this tradition has spread greatly to athletic teams nationwide. You can even catch NFL players showing their support by wearing pink gloves or even pink cleats. Park Ridge teams join in on this by having their own ways of supporting this great cause.

Members of Park Ridge Athletics were asked why they think it is important for students, staff, and the general population to continue fighting with the fight against breast cancer, and how they themselves show their support. Maura Mitchell, a freshman volleyball player, believes that “the team will have more exposure to the cause and create a better understanding of how important this cause is.” The girls showed their support by selling pink breast cancer awareness bracelets that cost $3 each. Mr. Brown, the Athletic Director of the school, stated that “The athletic programs have been supportive since I’ve been here.” Brown says he will “help our teams spread awareness and provide support and resources where needed to keep this tradition going for years to come.”

On Sunday the 15th, the cheer team went on a breast cancer walk called “Making Strides,” Coach Danielle Schwartz is “hopeful the team’s involvement with Pink Out, the Making Strides walk, and spending the day among survivors and supporters holds a place in the girl’s hearts.” The girls also will switch out clothing items such as pink bows and pink lipstick during the month of October. The football and cheer team teams host a “Pink-out,” which gets people talking about the effects of breast cancer. Schwartz believes “The campaigns surrounding breast cancer awareness are empowering. For years they have shown growth and opened the opportunity for great dialogue surrounding taking care of one’s body. As with any cause, being socially aware of how impactful students can be in their communities is awesome. It teaches all of us that it is never too soon to look outside of our immediate responsibilities as students and athletes to become integrated parts of our community.” Through all the loss and sorrow, it is comforting to know that those suffering from breast cancer have an extensive support system backing them through the difficult times.

Whether it be wearing pink or giving out to a charity, you too can show your support for breast cancer awareness.

To show your support or send further assistance, you may click here to donate to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.