This month, February 2016, the Grand Rapids community is coming together to battle against breast cancer. Participation intends to not only bring awareness to this ongoing issue, but also to raise funds for the Susan G. Komen Michigan organization through the Experience Pink events.
The money raised pays for breast care services such as mammograms for those in need. The remaining funds are put towards research for finding a cure.
The Susan G. Komen organization is one of the largest non-profit breast cancer organizations in the United States. The Komen organization works against breast cancer by funding research, helping to make breast care services available and educating women on detecting breast cancer. Since 1990, breast cancer death rates have been reduced by 34 percent as a result of this organization’s efforts.
The fifth annual Experience Pink events include the Valent-Ice Festival and the Grand Raggidy Roller Girls Pink Game as well as specials from local restaurants and hotels.
From Feb. 12 to 14, over 50 ice sculptures will be on display at various sites downtown during the annual Valent-Ice Festival. In honor of Experience Pink, a pink ice sculpture by Randy Finch will be featured at the J.W. Marriott. Rosa Parks Circle will host ice skating, live ice sculpting and other winter-themed fundraiser events. Check the full list of times and activities at downtowngr.com.
Cheer on the Grand Raggidy Roller Girls as they face Old Capital City. This pink-themed game will include a halftime Experience Pink surprise. This exciting competition will satisfy your anticipation on Feb. 20 at 5 p.m. Tickets purchased in advance are $12 or $15 at the door.
The Bistro at Courtyard Marriott downtown is offering food and drink specials. They will donate 10 percent of the proceeds to Susan G. Komen Michigan. Tom and Chee’s, located on 44th St., is whipping up their unique donut made of candied lemons, mascarpone and mozzarella cheese. Fifteen percent of sales from this Strawberry Lemonade Grilled Cheese Donut will be donated to combat breast cancer. Make a contribution to the effort while exploring new tastes!
“I like the fact that they’re involving the whole community in this campaign. I have several family members who had breast cancer and I think this is a touching way to show support for those who are struggling with the disease,” said freshman Britt Weston.
After four years, Experience Pink has raised more than $25,000 dollars. The Komen organization proudly states that 75 percent of money raised remains in western Michigan.
“Usually whenever we [the Grand Rapids community] are helping each other it’s a good thing,” said sophomore Benjamin Kastner.
According to the American Cancer Society, about one in eight women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during her lifetime. Help beat the odds and fight against breast cancer by experiencing pink.
