No compensation was received for this post. I was invited to a media event which facilitated the writing of this post.
Smile with your whole face, teeth and all!
Never miss a chance to tell someone how important they are.
Share what you have, it was just on loan from God.
Forgive and be gentle with others and yourself, we are all doing our best.
It was my first year of graduate school, and in the midst of an intense academic quarter, I always enjoyed the small reprieve afforded us when a guest speaker came in to share a unique perspective on the topic at hand. She was young…too young to have metastatic breast cancer. Her story was a mix of joy and sorrow but her valor is what I remember so many years after her story compelled me to be proactive with my health.
Advancements in medicine are such that many diseases that used to plague Americans have either been eradicated or now have a cure. Unfortunately, cancer is still a challenge for health care professionals, compelling the need for continued research. Last week, I spent the morning at Knott’s Berry Farm being inspired by my sweet friend Jaime, who shared her ongoing battle with breast cancer. For the second year in a row, Knott’s has partnered with Komen Orange County to raise money and continued awareness for breast cancer services and research and this event kicked off the 3-month long initiative.
Photo: Jill Parkin
Last year, Jaime attended Knott’s first annual “For the Cure” event and shortly after discovered her own lumps. It was emotional and inspiring to hear Jaime boldly share her story and her journey. Since Jaime’s diagnosis, she has inspired many both near and far. Her courage, grace, and gratitude are a rarity and incredibly humbling.
Breast Cancer Survivors Ride Jaguar at Knott’s For the Cure Event
Throughout the event, we learned about the important work Susan G. Komen Orange County is doing to further awareness and research as well as Knott’s own supportive efforts. Through March 27th, Knott’s Berry Farm will offer “Pink Tickets” online and a portion of proceeds from these tickets as well as limited edition “pink” merchandise will benefit Komen Orange County. Last year, the partnership between Knott’s Berry Farm and Komen Orange County helped raise nearly $100,000 for the organization which provided underserved, underinsured women and men with access to breast health care and services.
While Latinas have a lower incidence of breast cancer, their mortality is one of the highest in Orange County, driving the need to service this population. Through Unidos Contra el Cancer de Seno Coalition, Komen Orange County provides breast health management and support groups for the Latina population. Additionally, Komen Orange County works with partner agencies like Northgate Gonzalez Markets and Cafecitos to provide education, outreach and free mammograms to the Latina population in Orange County.
As part of Knott’s “For the Cure” initiative, select attractions throughout the park will be themed pink including the Calico Mine Ride and Camp Snoopy waterfall.
Guests entering the park can also take a photo with loved ones right inside the Knott’s Berry Farm Main Gate. This display is touching as it offers inspirational testimonials from breast cancer survivors.
Whether you’ve been touched by breast cancer in some way or simply want to help support this incredible initiative, I encourage you to visit Knott’s Berry Farm through March 27th. For more information or to purchase a “Pink Ticket,” visit Knotts.com. And for more information about Susan G. Komen Orange County visit their website.
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