This year, New Hyde Park Memorial celebrates the 10th anniversary of Pink October, a campaign dedicated to raising awareness of breast cancer. Pink October was created to shed light on the increasing rates of breast cancer and the impact it has on millions worldwide. The initiative not only spreads awareness but also emphasizes the importance of research, education and compassion in the fight for a cure, which has become a driving force of the mission, not only at our school but globally.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month has grown and expanded, clubs such as Students Putting an End to Cancer, National Art Honor Society; the sports teams and others have worked collaboratively to host and organize fundraising events and activities.
“The 10th celebration marks a milestone in New Hyde Park’s commitment to help in the fight for a cure. Throughout the past decade, the school community has come together, showcasing its caring spirit,” SPEC adviser and English teacher Ms. Kaspar said.
A highlight of the month was Caffeinate for a Cure, a collaboration led by the Key Club and supported by the business department. This year’s event marked the first coffee sale of the school year, featuring an impressive selection of baked goods, freshly brewed iced coffee, merchandise and exclusive Pink October mugs. Students and teachers lined up early in the morning to grab a warm drink and contribute to the cause.
“The pink bagel sale, led by the business department, started October off strong. It was an amazing success and will contribute to a great cause in breast cancer research to help with treatments and cures,” sophomore Safiya Dar said.
Italian ice and candy sales were also held after school, where students could cool off with a sweet treat while supporting a meaningful cause. A variety of Italian ices and colorful ice pops were sold alongside candy assortments, priced between $1 and $2, making it easy for everyone to contribute. Other events include Strike Out Cancer Day, organized by the Sunshine Club; Twisted Tuesday, with all proceeds raised by the Class of 2026 going toward Pink October and the first coffee sale of the school year sponsored by the special education department, featuring baked goods and exclusive Pink October mugs. Other events such as Pink Volleyball, sports shirt sales and pink pumpkin decorating with the art department brought students together for a shared cause.
Students and staff volunteered their time and energy throughout the month to support these events, reflecting the unity and compassion that define the school’s culture. On the first day of October, the entire school dressed up in pink for Pink It Up Day, symbolizing unity and following a tradition that continues each year to honor this incredible cause.
“Pink October fosters kindness and hope in our school community and just grows the school spirit while spreading awareness of breast cancer. It encourages love and acceptance to show people that they are not alone,” SPEC event coordinator and junior Mariam Dar said.
Pink October has become not only a yearly tradition but an essential part of New Hyde Park’s identity. The campaign has grown to serve as a reminder that each year efforts continue the mission to empower, educate and raise awareness in this ongoing fight against breast cancer.
