YWCA’s Breast Cancer Research Comes up Big at Think Pink Fundraiser
1/27/20
West Windsor, N.J. – Visitors to Mercer County Community College’s (MCCC) Athletics Building thought Valentine’s Day came early on Tuesday, Jan. 21, when the college hosted its 10th annual Think Pink: Breast Cancer Awareness Night.
The Vikings’ gymnasium was the color of carnations as the college partnered with the Princeton YWCA to fundraise for its Breast Cancer Research Center (BCRC). According to its mission statement, the BCRC is “dedicated to providing support and information to women and their families affected by breast cancer, and to increase understanding of the disease.”
“Since we started operating in 1972, we’ve grown to offer 21 fitness classes, wigs, and prosthetics free of charge,” said BCRC Outreach and Education Coordinator Anne Michaelson. “We also work with Princeton Radiology to offer free mammograms. It’s important that we talk about early detection.”
Also in attendance was Rachel Katz, Production Manager for WWFM and breast cancer survivor.
The fundraiser, which saw donations from area vendors up for raffle, raised over $300.
Sharing the spotlight with the BCRC that night were the men’s and women’s basketball teams. Both squads hosted Rowan College of South Jersey Burlington (RCSJB).
Though neither the Vikings nor Lady Vikings won, both teams featured players with big games.
Sophomore Darnella McMillan delivered a double-double with 12 rebounds and a season-high 10 assists while adding three steals, four blocks, and five points.
Freshman Alex Lin, whose 26 points were a game-high, led the men’s team in a 59-43 loss to RCSJB
Despite the outcomes, the night was a total success in the fight against Breast Cancer.
“Take a look at the information,” Katz reminded the crowd. “Put it in a drawer. God forbid you’ll ever need it. But be aware.”
Anne Michaelson (left) from the YWCA's Breast Cancer Resource Center with MCCC Fitness Center Coordinator and Think Pink organizer Erin Cahill-Wetzel.
WWFM's Rachel Katz addresses the crowd.
Both teams donned pink socks and bands to celebrate the event.
The names of breast cancer victims and survivors adorned the walls of the gym.