Schools Unite for a Cause

On Saturday, May 15 2010 Ursuline’s Breast Cancer Awareness Club joined forces once again with Iona Prep for the 3rd annual “Paws for the Cause” walk to raise awareness and money for the Think Pink scholarship fund and for various cancer organizations. The event will took place on the Iona Prep track and was joined this year by the S.A.D.D. clubs from both schools. The S.A.D.D. club also raises funds for various support groups and works diligently to raise awareness about the dangers of destructive decisions.

The Pause Walk kept its old traditions and add some new ones. The clubs sold merchandise including tee-shirts, bracelets, sweatshirts, magnets, etc. Pink ribbon cookies were baked and generously donated and delivered by Zeppieri’s Bakery will be on sale again this year. Grace Ann Accocella Pensiero, class of ’89 and a breast cancer survivor prepared chocolate treats for the event. For the first time the walk was held in the evening. Registration was at 5:00pm and the walk began at 6:00pm. Candles were lit in memory of those who have suffered or who have passed on from breast cancer or drunk driving.

Another first for the Paws for the Cause Walk was “team-making.” The purpose of the teams was to have people get together with their friends and come up with a catchy or meaningful name for their team. Ursuline’s co-presidents, Katherine Valentino, Katie Manfredo, and Julia Nasti, came up with the name “Presidents in Pink” for their team. Each team was encouraged to raise at least fifty dollars to support and raise awareness for breast cancer. This was a fun way to get people involved in this stride against a disease which plagues one in eight people in our society. Yes, men do get breast cancer!

The Breast Cancer Awareness Club members along with the help of club moderator, Mrs. Joan Brescia, have worked really hard to create an event that underscores two high schools coming together to make something right. A great time was had by all with a DJ, bands, food and a leisurely stroll. The Ursuline Cheerleaders kicked off the walk with a BEAT CANCER Cheer and warm-up. Thanks to all who donated their time, money and effort to making this year’s walk a really fantastic and successful one!

By Katie Manfredo
Co-president BCAC