The Upsilon Pi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. celebrated with fighters and survivors of breast cancer on Saturday during its third annual Think Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Birthday Party.
Over two dozen people participated in games and activities at the Sportsplex Activities Center to celebrate life and each day with the five cancer survivors who were deemed the guests of honor.
"We want to celebrate them because it is a blessing to have another day," program chair Miranda Kincaid said. "It is very personal to all of us, here. We have two members of our chapter who have been affected by cancer that are survivors."
The celebration was open to anyone in the community, whether they were affected by cancer, knew someone who was or just wanted to show their support. Games like "what's in your purse?" and a word search puzzle were played and participants danced to "The Wobble."
There was also an educational aspect to the event.
"The good news is, we can raise awareness and there are a lot of new options available for people to live longer, healthier lives," Kincaid said. "Lifestyle changes, diet changes…"
Kincaid said her sister-in-law took the BRCA Test, a genetic test which shows how likely someone is to develop certain types of cancer. After the test, Kincaid's sister-in-law found she was 87 percent likely to develop ovarian, skin or breast cancer and was able to take precautions to protect herself from developing those.
"I would encourage people to be aware of things that are available to them," Kincaid said. "Regular mammograms, we encourage women older than 40 to get them twice a year."
The two-fold event coupled awareness and celebration. Five women who are battling or have battled cancer told their stories, sharing their experiences and their wisdom, and asking for the thoughts and prayers of those present.
Before closing, a candle was lit and a moment of silence was shared for those who have been lost to cancer. Before leaving, door prizes were passed out and words of encouragement were shared.
"We want to raise awareness and let people know that you may have the diagnosis, but the diagnosis does not have you," Kincaid said.