CUMBERLAND — Each year, the Pink Ladies spend months preparing to support the efforts of the American Cancer Society and its annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk.
Founded by Maureen Dye, the group of family and friends raises thousands of dollars for ACS but, most importantly, shares a message of hope for all those who have faced breast cancer.
Dye started the group event after receiving a diagnosis that changed her life. She was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 at age 50. Ten years later, she discovered a lump in her neck. After testing, it was determined that she had metastatic breast cancer.
Since those first days, Dye has been an advocate for the ACS and continues to advocate for herself and others. She is a member of the executive committee for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Western Maryland walk and a tireless volunteer. She is proud of the work of the Pink Ladies and remains amazed at how the community has continued to support their efforts.
“That first year we raised about $1,000. It has increased each year. Last year, we raised about $17,000. This year, we have already received a donation of $15,000 for the Pythian Sisters. We always start our team goal out at $5,000 and we’ve raised more than that already, so we are off to a good start!”
The Pink Ladies have several events coming up and appreciate the continued support of the community.
The Main Street Pub in Frostburg will host its annual Bra Decorating Contest on Oct. 1. The event is organized by Pink Ladies member and breast cancer survivor Mindy Wilkinson.
On Oct. 3, the town of Lonaconing will host its annual Breast Cancer Awareness Bucket Drive from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Egle Nursing & Rehab has planned a basket raffle, and a “You’ve Been Flocked” fundraiser with flamingos “flying” from yard to yard for voluntary donations is being organized. Details will be finalized soon and will be posted on the Pink Ladies’ Facebook page.
On the day of the Making Strides walk, the Pink Ladies will hold a second basket raffle.
Dye said she continues to be amazed and humbled by the amount of support.
“Our team, Pink Ladies, just can’t thank everyone enough for all the love and support in our fight against breast cancer. Thank you for supporting a world with less cancer and more birthdays.”