On Sunday, October 19, 2015, the NAHS Cheerleading team, along with some members of our football team, participated in the Making Strides Walk at Overpeck Park in Ridgefield, New Jersey. Together, along with their families, they walked in honor of Team Lisa and the thousands of people who are fighting against breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the US. Luckily, with advances in treatment and the result of finding the cancer earlier, there are over 3.1 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. Overall, the team raised over $1,500 which will aid the American Cancer Society in finding a cure for breast cancer.

In the crowd of fighters, survivors and advocates, there was an overwhelming feeling of support as more and more people gathered in the pink filled park. As the survivors took the stage, a surge of happiness and hope spread through the crowd. Emotions were high as the women spoke into the microphone and empowered everyone with their stories to raise awareness. It is encouraged that women 40 and over get a mammogram and breast exam once a year and live healthy lives in order to reduce the risk of breast cancer. There is strength in numbers, help raise awareness, and in the words of Team Lisa, “Fight like a girl!”

A special thank you to Gina McCann for all of her support and providing the photograph attached to this article.