Oct. 1, 2024. The official date that society devotes to educating and informing the world on the destructive illness: breast cancer. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an international campaign held every October to promote screening and protection and honor those who have interacted with the disease. Whether it is celebrating by donating, spreading awareness through social media, or hugging loved ones battling, the support is endless. During these months, the American Cancer Society hosts the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walks throughout the United States. These walks unite everyone to walk together as one and end breast cancer. Together, the change raises lifesaving funds that support breast cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers through every step of the journey.
Former Lake County Illinois State Queen (LCIS) Haley Kalinowski completed her reign as Miss Lake County 2023. She is part of a strong community of women who show the utmost support for vital causes, such as the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk. Kalinowski continues to attend these events as it has become a tradition for her and her family in support of her aunt, who battled a vicious disease.
“Attending events like this is so important because it reminds the public how important the cause is, raises money, and makes survivors and fighters feel supported,” Kalinowski said. “This year, I was so proud to come home from college and walk for breast cancer alongside a huge group of queens dressed head to toe in pink.”
Kalinowski attends the University of Tennessee Knoxville, where she has brought the value of participating in these events and has spread the importance of volunteering. Walks are a fun way to come together to take pictures and highlight the value of having a strong community. A tight-knit community with everlasting support is the motivation needed to keep many fighting. When hundreds of community members show up in an effort to spread awareness, a vital message is spread; together we can make a difference.
“The most impactful moment to me is always seeing the amount of people who show up,” Kalinowski said. “The more we talk about any issue, the greater ability we will have to grow in numbers and make change. One person can’t do much alone, but together, the limits disappear.”
Love and compassion are factors that deeply tie our humanity together and this is evidently seen by the efforts of The American Cancer Society and the supporters of the organization. Offering numerous opportunities to fundraise and fight for the cause, this community knows they do not stand alone. Those battling can attend these walks and recognize there are brighter days ahead. This October, walk together to advance health equity through essential programs and services. No one fights alone.
