The University of North Carolina’s School of Nursing’s Association of Nursing Students (ANS) hosted their annual Pink Heels event at Carrington Hall’s Fox Lobby on Sunday, October 15, from 1pm to 3pm. The event, designed to be a family-friendly experience, offered a variety of activities, including pumpkin painting, cornhole, face painting, breast cancer education, refreshments, t-shirt sales, music, and featured a guest appearance by UNC’s beloved mascot, Rameses.
Olivia Jones, ANS Treasurer for 2023-2024, shared her perspective on the significance of Pink Heels, saying, “To me, Pink Heels is a special event in which we improve healthcare in our community, and I will strive to make a difference like this as I practice as a future Carolina nurse.”
The event’s fundraising efforts exceeded expectations, with a final amount raised of $2,511. Through their collaboration with the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, ANS doubled their impact, as the funds raised were matched 1:1, resulting in a total contribution of $5,022.00 toward breast cancer research. The initial goal had been set at $5,000.
ANS chose to join forces with the Power of Pink campaign through Lineberger, allocating their contributions to various critical areas of breast cancer research, including:
- Raising critical funds for breast cancer patients at the UNC Breast Center: These funds support excellent care for women throughout North Carolina, particularly those battling breast cancer. The money aids in addressing clinical needs, ensuring patients receive the best possible care.
- Supporting Innovative Research: UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center hosts one of the nation’s leading breast cancer programs. This program excels in providing high-quality, compassionate care at the UNC Breast Center, as well as conducting innovative research aimed at reducing the burden of breast cancer.
- Progress in Early Screening, Treatment, and Prevention: The research undertaken by Lineberger has played a pivotal role in advancing early screening, treatment, and prevention of breast cancer, significantly improving the survival rates of patients.
Nancy Thompson, ANS faculty advisor, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the UNC School of Nursing community’s support, stating, “I’m so moved by the UNC SON community (staff, faculty, students, and family) coming together to support ANS and Pink Heels this year! We are thrilled to continue our academic practice collaboration with Lineberger’s Power of Pink Campaign to raise funds aimed to end disparities in breast cancer research.”
Breast Cancer Awareness Month served as a significant reminder of the urgency in garnering support for this crucial cause, especially given the increasing number of women affected by breast cancer. It emphasizes the imperative for continuous research and advancements in clinical care.
For additional information on breast cancer research and support, explore the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center’s website at unclineberger.org/breastcenter/