Annual Pink Fling Aims to Honor Breast Cancer Survivors and Patients

The White House got a pink glow in Washington, D.C. People painted their pumpkins pink in Calvert, MD, and women donated art made of bras in Orange City, FL. And they did it all last year in celebration of the 25th anniversary of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

This October promises to bring even more colorful and thoughtful events and opportunities.

“Clearly, every person who brings attention to the cause is fantastic,” said Terry Music, chief mission delivery officer for the American Cancer Society.

On Oct. 11, survivors, community members and those touched by breast cancer are invited to join for "Pink Fling," an evening of celebration, pampering and educational awareness.

The annual fall event is an opportunity to respect and encourage breast cancer patients and survivors and to bring attention to the disease, said. Dr. Joseph Haggerty, chair of Cancer Committee at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital and medical oncologist.

Pink Fling kicks off with Tai Chi from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Healing Garden. The evening's main event, "Survivor Soiree," will begin with hors d'oeuvres from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., followed by an award ceremony for community organizations, donors and individuals who have significantly contributed to Shady Grove's Cancer Program.

"We always want to promote breast cancer awareness, early detection and saving lives," said Natasha Verna, project coordinator for Pink Fling.

Verna said the event was born out of the hospital's breast cancer support group, adding that the women came together and wanted to have something about what goes behind the decision making of treatment.

Now in its fourth year, Pink Fling will feature a variety of personal wellness activities such as mini manicures, massage, yoga and acupuncture. A panel of physician experts, including oncologists and surgeons, will be available to answer questions about diagnosis, treatment and follow up.

Verna said she expects more than 100 participants this year. For women who are struggling with cancer, "this is a night to kind of take their minds off of it," she added.

Pink Fling will take place at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital in Rockville, MD, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Oct. 11. The event is free.