Suffolk Athletes Raise Breast Cancer Awareness

By Alexsandra Proctor '11
Suffolk University

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, (NBCAM) is a nationwide event established to raise awareness about early detection and treatment of breast cancer. 2009 marks the 25th anniversary of NBCAM, as well as, Suffolk University's eighth year participating in a school-wide celebration of education and empowerment.

Since 2002, the involvement and advocacy of the Suffolk athletic department in NBCAM continues to increase. The men's Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Hockey, Soccer and Tennis teams, in conjunction with the women's Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer, Softball, Tennis and Volleyball teams, have been fundamental in the fight to generate breast cancer awareness throughout the Suffolk community.

During the first week of October, Suffolk athletes and volunteers distribute breast cancer bracelets, ribbons, and informational fliers in the main lobbies of SU. This year, all thirteen sports teams were represented. Seeking answers often derives insight into the dangers of breast cancer. "Throw a pink shirt on a couple of tall guys and people ask questions," joked Adam Nelson, Head Coach of Men's Basketball. Suffolk coaches say they recognize the value of equal gender involvement throughout NBCAM, continuously propelling its success at Suffolk.

Breast cancer is no longer only a woman's concern. Men can play a vital role in the enforcement of a healthy lifestyle by encouraging the women in their lives to be proactive about their health. Everyone has a mother, girlfriend, aunt, or sister who can benefit from the support offered by men in their lives.

"Stand Up for Pink," Suffolk University's kick-off event was open to breast cancer supporters, survivors, family members and friends. Participants were given a pink t-shirt and asked to form a human breast cancer ribbon, which was photographed aerially.

Allan Ray, 20, junior and Basketball Captain at Suffolk, has been part of NBCAM for the past three years. "My coaches have played a big role in our participation, making sure everyone from our team is incorporated in breast cancer awareness month. Whether that means sitting at an information table and distributing fliers, or being in the gym for pictures of the human ribbon."

Breast cancer has become the second leading cause in cancer-related death in women in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Thus, October has become a time for athletes and the SU community, to display solidarity and support for those affected by this disease. As a gesture to promote awareness, Suffolk athletes wear breast cancer wristbands during all of their events.

Suffolk's Baseball and Softball teams each received a pink bat; similar to the pink bats used by Major League Baseball teams each Mothers Day, denoting the importance of breast cancer awareness. The bats were donated by Suffolk's Norine Bacigalupo, Communication and Journalism department adjunct professor, breast cancer survivor, and self-diagnosed baseball junkie.

The 4th annual "Courage and Cuisine" luncheon is an event hosted by Suffolk to inform our public and honor those who have taken steps to instill aggressive healthcare habits in the women of our generation. A representative from the Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition was also present to address environmental causes like cosmetic products, shampoos, and other common commodities found to increase the risk of breast cancer.

The "Pink Tie Award" is also presented during the luncheon to men who have shown exceptional initiative promoting awareness and community support around the University. Past recipients and dedicated program advocates include President David Sargent, Athletic Director James Nelson, and Head Baseball Coach Cary McConnell.

"The majority of individuals look at breast cancer as a woman's issue, yet it has indirectly become a male's issue, as loved ones are impacted. We in athletics have been most pleased to play a role in NBCAM since its inception," said Athletic Director Nelson. Each October, Suffolk athletes demonstrate dedication for their teams, coaches, and community by persistently fighting for a cause much greater than themselves and Suffolk University; the hope for a cure.

Courtesy: Suffolk Athletic Communications

Photo by: John Gillooly