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Op-Ed: Annual Breast Cancer Walk

Photo by Liv McCoy

For one day each October, downtown Orlando is flooded with pink. Decked out in tutus, wigs, and even pink sneakers, The American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk brings people together around Lake Eola. For more than thirty years, the three-mile walk has helped raise awareness and support for those affected by breast cancer. More than just a race, this event focuses on community and healing.

This year, I attended the walk as president of Black Student Union. BSU has been a part of this since 2017, and I’m proud that it has become a tradition we continue. Being surrounded by so many people early in the morning, dressed in pink from their wigs to their socks, made me realize how powerful it is when people come together for a cause. Sometimes showing up and walking three miles goes a long way to show your support.

Before the walk started, there was music, dancing, and energy everywhere. Vendors handed out ribbons, bracelets, and bubbles, then we all counted down to 10 at the start line — and we were off. As I looked around, some people had photos of loved ones, while others held signs of names or wore survivor badges.

As we finished the three-mile walk around noon, I felt grateful. Breast Cancer month is not only one day in October or just wearing pink — it is about learning, supporting and bringing awareness to those with breast cancer and their loved ones. Events like Making Strides help fund research and support programs that make a difference. Every step matters, and when there are strides to make, BSU and many others will keep on walking.

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