When I was four, I cheered on my mom in a pink tank top I had written "Go mommy!" on in purple Sharpie. I wasn't sure why my mom was going on a walk with so many people all in pink but I knew they all looked very strong and I felt inspired. Now I know I was cheering my mom on in a breast cancer walk. 

All my life, I have grown up with strong women around me. I see their strength not in their ability to "get over" adversity but to walk through it. I have seen the impact of breast cancer in my community through my teachers and friends. A teacher at my high school fought through breast cancer and is still dealing with the repercussions of medical bills. I admire the ability of women diagnosed with breast cancer to be strong despite the weight of pain, responsibility, guilt, and financial struggle. I know they can not always see the inspiration their story brings, which is why Amelia and I founded Jags Go Pink.

Our goal in starting the club was to honor and assist our community. I was astonished to hear the number of personal connections students and faculty at Rock Canyon had to the devastation of breast cancer. The more touching stories were shared, the more I felt the need to make a difference. In the first year of Jags Go Pink, I helped run fundraisers such as a bake sale, Cycle Bar event, and blanket making. During what we called "Pink Week" Jags Go Pink got the whole school involved in supporting breast cancer. We decided to set up a table at our "pink out" football game to paint pink ribbons on people's faces and hand out pins and talk with people about the impact of breast cancer and how they could help. This event built up the reputation of Jags Go Pink and allowed us to expand this year. Jags Go Pink is now partnering with Susan G. Komen to ensure no woman fights alone.