MONROE, CT — Rays of sunshine glistened off Great Hollow Lake, creating reflections of colorful fall leaves from the natural canopy at Wolfe Park, as cancer survivors, caregivers and loved ones participated in Think Pink Monroe’s Walk Saturday afternoon.
“We have a lot of survivors here, which to me is in keeping with what we’re doing,” said Bonnie Maur, founder and president of Think Pink Monroe. “We’re just glad to be here to support our neighbors.”
The nonprofit raises money for Monroe families and residents living with a breast cancer diagnosis to help with living expenses, defray medical costs and to assist those without insurance.
Think Pink Monroe also spreads awareness of the importance of annual mammograms and offers support groups.
On Saturday, the organization’s volunteers collected donations and raised money by selling T-shirts, knit winter hats and other branded items.
At noon, Jason Maur of Think Pink Monroe, who is Bonnie’s son and is a Town Council member in Monroe, announced the start of the Walk, in which the large group took a counterclockwise route around the lake.
Among them, one recent recipient of a Think Pink Monroe grant who asked to remain anonymous, said her annual mammogram caught her breast cancer in the early stages.
The married mother of two had a successful surgery and is now in the recovery phase. “I think it will offset expenses I already made,” she said of the grant.
She said money from Think Pink Monroe can help patients pay for surgery supplies, such as pillows, special clothes and other things for comfort. Patients can’t go grocery shopping after surgery, because they aren’t supposed to lift anything, so the money can also be used for takeout, she added.
The town resident stressed the importance of routine cancer screenings.
“I think a lot of women prioritize their family over their own health,” she said.
All respectful comments with the commenter’s first and last name are welcome.
