Breast cancer is one of the leading diseases in the United States. With an estimated 220,000 individuals diagnosed every year, it is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. According to womenshealth.gov, breast cancer affects every 1 out of 8 women and is second only to lung cancer as their leading killer in the United States. This very serious disease destroys lives, families and affects many mothers, daughters, wives and sisters across the country. Only with research, application, and the loving support of family and friends can we hope to beat this cancer and work toward a better life for all.

Annually, a variety of events are held to not only call attention to the need for testing but also to raise funds for research to find a cure for this disease. Most people are familiar with walks and runs, but this year, Fayetteville State University is again hosting a Ball in Pink for breast cancer awareness. The purpose of this initiative is also to help raise funds and awareness to fight breast cancer and bring this plight center stage in our city. On Feb. 15, the campus of FSU will host this event as a part of its women’s basketball game against Winston Salem State University. Beginning at 1 p.m., all breast cancer survivors and their families are invited to come out and take part in this initiative. All survivors will be honored during half-time, and after the game, they and their families are invited to a reception.

Spearheading this event is the First Lady of Fayetteville State University, Nancy Anderson, the chancellor’s wife. Those honored will get the opportunity to meet her along with the Chancellor, Broncos’ head coach, players and several others. Kevin M. Wilson, the assistant athletic director for development and marketing at the university, is one of the main organizers for the initiative. Before joining the staff of Fayetteville State University, he served as the assistant director for development at North Carolina Central University in Durham. Wilson takes great joy in knowing that all of the funds raised at the event will stay in Fayetteville.

FSU’s funds will go to the Cape Fear Valley Cancer Center-Friends of the Cancer Center. There, they will assist with patient care, establishing support groups, and living costs for those who need aid due to the high expense of treatment. What is raised in the community; stays in the community. He went on to say that it is a goal for the university to gain further support from the local area. As well, another goal of this event is to build community leaders and use this as a platform to bring awareness for many dealing with this disease.

Breast cancer is a destructive killer of women and families but with your help, it can be stopped. Come out and support Fayetteville State University’s Ball in Pink. This noble endeavor will not only help save the lives of those locally hurt by breast cancer but, in turn, will enrich the City of Fayetteville. For more information, on the Ball in Pink initiative or to find out how you can help via donations and support, contact Kevin Wilson at 910.672.2565.

Photo: Fayetteville State University is set to host a Ball in Pink to raise breast cancer awareness.