The Sage Informer

Photo Credits: Mrs. Stetson and Aili Strand

During the month of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, MHS makes a great effort to give back to both Paint Piatt Pink (PPP) and Kirby Medical Center, while unifying the community.

Many clubs and athletic teams participate in fun and supportive activities during the week of the Pink Out games. Sophomore Sophie Billedo said, “I enjoy all of the activities the school does. They’re very interactive and give a chance for the students to give back.”

During the week of pink out MHS does the most to get the student body involved. All ticket proceeds from the football and volleyball games are donated to PPP. Also, sophomore Everett Buffington put matters into his own hands and 3-D printed pink ribbon key chains and donated $170 to PPP.  

Billedo said, “PPP passes the financial support that the school gives off to the warriors who are going through something horrible.” 

In addition to raising money, MHS also focuses heavily on spreading awareness. Billedo said, “During Pink Out week you really learn a lot about Breast Cancer, seeing all the statistics and logistics really teaches me a lot about this disease. It’s horrible but  I now know how many survivors and fighters there are.” 

Billedo said,  “As someone whose grandma has fought breast cancer, these games are very heartwarming. Seeing the money being raised and given back to research really is an amazing thing. If something like this can make me feel good, I know it makes the community feel good.” 

Luckily, MHS was able to work alongside Prairie Central High School, who also has a great Pep Club and student body. As a whole we were able to raise $5644.74 with all proceeds going to Kirby Medical Group. 

Senior Catie Swartz, President of Pep Club, gets to work hand in hand with PPP and Kirby Medical Center. She said, “I’ve been really lucky to work closely with those at Kirby who are in charge of PPP and go into their facilities to see the impact our fundraising has. That experience has shown me how important it is to have a community around you to support you in hard times.” 

About 13% of females will get diagnosed with some sort of breast cancer. In other words, 1 out of every 8 women. 

Swartz said, “Pink out is a chance to give back to the community and stand beside those who have fought breast cancer.” Swartz added, “Pink out makes me really grateful for the community we have here in Monticello. Everyone is so supportive and willing to give a great cause.” 

Freshmen are getting to experience Pink Out for the first time, allowing them to see the work Kirby has put in over the past years and they have enjoyed many of the activities and games that we hold.

Freshman Ellie Freeman said, “I think by having games for Pink Out just shows awareness by using things that other people love. I thought it was really fun to play in a pink out game, and I think the community just really comes together.” 

Seeing the students at MHS and the rest of the community come together especially during the volleyball and football games is one of the most rewarding things about being able to participate in PPP. 

Senior Trey Leynes said, “I feel proud and connected. The games help everyone think about breast cancer and how they can help.”  

Even with October coming to a end MHS still encourages students to wear pink every Wednesday of October to continue to show support to Breast Cancer awerness month.  

Maddy Highland, Staff Writer

higma27@sages.us