October is national Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout the month, New Hyde Park Memorial students and staff organized and participated in various events to raise money and awareness of breast cancer.
“I think that all of the events that were held really increased breast cancer awareness throughout the school,” sophomore Leo Loiacono said. “Pink October is important to students and staff because it destigmatizes discussions surrounding breast cancer.”
On September 30, Pink It Up Day was held to to commemorate the beginning of Pink October. Pink It Up Day is an annual event when students and faculty are encouraged to wear pink to show their support for breast cancer awareness. Participants gathered in the courtyard to take a group photo from an aerial view.
“With the dedication and support of Ms. Bocchino and the Key Club, as well Dr. Lapiano-Smith, my SPEC co-adviser, we kicked off the month of October with Pink It Up Day. This year, Long Island’s Channel 12 News highlighted our pink ribbon in the NHP courtyard,” English teacher Ms. Kaspar said.
Over the course of the fall season, many students volunteered to walk around with the Pink Boot at home games to raise money for breast cancer awareness. During the New Hyde Park Memorial pep rally, pink cotton candy and pink lemonade were sold as well. The event was considered a success, with the stand completely selling out by the end of the day.
Another event that was hosted was the Pink Mile. People from all grades participated in running a mile to raise awareness and money for breast cancer. With donations from Dunkin’ Donuts and The Pretzel Factory, students were motivated to partake in the event. The Pink Mile was organized and run by the SPEC club, a club comprised of students working to put an end to cancer.
“The experience was great, and the donuts tasted even better. There were many people to support a great cause,” sophomore Lloyd Thater.
One of the final events of Pink October was Pink Pumpkin Painting, hosted by the art department and the National Art Honor Society. Many students gathered after school in Cafeteria B to paint and decorate pumpkins. Students paid an entry fee of five dollars, and they were given pink paint and glitter to individualize their pumpkins. This generated a total of $210. The pumpkins were sold to students and faculty, raising even more money for breast cancer awareness.
“Pink pumpkin painting gave us a chance to raise awareness for breast cancer in a creative and meaningful way. It reminded me how small actions, like painting designs on pumpkins and coming together as a community can have a significant impact,” sophomore Rafay Mufti said. “It felt great to be part of something that shows support and spreads hope to those affected by breast cancer.”
Overall, the Pink October events raised a total of $4,100 through contributions from both students and faculty. All proceeds will go to Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program and the American Cancer Society.
