Every October, pink fills the halls, classrooms, and sports fields as a powerful reminder that this month is dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness. What began as a national effort to increase education and research around breast cancer has become a global movement of hope, support, and remembrance.

“It’s good that we dedicate time to awareness. If anything, we should try to give more time for awareness,” said Math teacher Mr. Chareles Curry.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month was first established in 1985 to promote early detection and funding for research. Decades later, it continues to unite communities, families, and schools in the fight against a disease that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Yet, thanks to awareness efforts and advances in treatment, survival rates continue to improve each year. 

“I think it’s an important thing we should all be aware off. It affects many people. I think we should stay vigilant because it really can affect anyone in our in lives,” said senior Declan Childress, a recently ILS transfer student who just purchased his pink sweater.

Although breast cancer mostly affects women, men can get it, too. It’s rare, but it happens and awareness is key. By recognizing that breast cancer doesn’t only impact women, but men as well given that less than 1% of men test positive. Through the ILS school community, knowledge and awareness may improve.

Here at ILS, students are showing their support in a special way. Throughout October, students are allowed to wear pink sweaters to raise awareness and show solidarity with those affected by breast cancer. The sweaters are a symbol of compassion and community spirit. It’s a simple gesture, but one that carries meaning and reminds everyone that awareness begins with small acts. 

Many students and staff wear pink to honor loved ones who have battled breast cancer or to encourage others to get screened. My own grandmother, my mom’s mother, passed away from this disease. I genuinely believe in awareness. Offering hope for those affected, the message is clear: awareness saves lives. 

“My mom used to make the ribbons and give them to my teachers in football. I grew up wearing pink at every game. I did so to spread awareness about breast cancer. It shows support,” said senior Wendell Copeland.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than just a month, a tradition of hope, it’s a call to action. Whether it’s wearing pink, donating, or simply learning more about the cause, every effort helps. As we continue through October, let’s remember that by standing together, we can spread hope, support survivors, and make a difference, one pink sweater at a time.