Cancer Institute Programs Supported by Pink Night

Two local high school girls’ basketball teams are once again partnering to help raise awareness of breast cancer.

The Scranton Preparatory School Classics and Abington Heights Lady Comets will face off on January 28, 2011, for the third annual “Pink Night.” This year’s contest will take place at the Abington Heights High School gymnasium with the junior varsity game starting at 6 p.m. and the varsity game beginning at 7:15 p.m.

“It’s such a pleasure to see the girls and parents from both schools work together to support a cause that is bigger than all of us. Also, the game itself is always extra exciting as ‘Pink Night’ generates a large and enthusiastic crowd,” said Karen Hoyt, a member of the Abington Heights Girls Basketball Boosters Club.

During the game, both Abington Heights and Scranton Prep players will wear special pink jerseys and all fans are encouraged to wear pink as well. Proceeds from the game will be donated to the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute to support local breast cancer education programming.

“Last year, the funds generated from ‘Pink Night’ helped support multiple education initiatives, giving hundreds of women in Northeastern Pennsylvania the knowledge they need for greater protection from this disease. We are extremely grateful to once again be a part of this wonderful community event,” said Bob Durkin, President of the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute.
Admission to the game is $4 for adults and $2 for students. Additionally, the “Pink Night” t-shirts will be on sale at the game for $8 each.

Scroll down past the photo to see specific information on Cancer Institute programming supported by the 2010 Pink Night.

Scroll down past the photo to see specific information on Cancer Institute programming supported by the 2010 Pink Night.

Breast Cancer: What I Need to Know: This program provides current information on breast cancer including: risk factors, warning signs and symptoms, and screening recommendations. Myths and misinformation are replaced with facts. By the end of the program, over 2,000 women will have participated.

Smart Girls, Wise Women: This multigenerational program featured demonstrations, presentations, activities, and games focusing on a lifetime of breast health for all participants. On April 17, 2010, 75 girls and 25 adults participated in the program, which was presented at a gathering of local girl scouts. Programming was developed and presented by the University of Scranton Nursing students.

Pennsylvania Cancer Education Network: This community education program focuses on ovarian, colon and prostate cancer awareness and has already reached 3,000 participants. These individuals learned risk factors, screening recommendations, and general healthy habits.

Pink Lights Interest Patch: The Cancer Institute worked with the Girl Scouts in the Heart of PA to develop the Pink Light interest patch promoting breast health and breast cancer awareness for regional Girl Scouts.

Victorian Pink Tea: One Hundred and twenty women enjoyed an afternoon of tea, scones, and camaraderie while learning about breast cancer awareness. Risk factors, warning signs and symptoms, and screening guidelines were reviewed.