In the Pink draws record participation, raises most money in event’s 19-year history

Oct. 19, 2024
Contact: Dawn Bryant
Tidelands Health
(843) 652-1636
dbryant@tidelandshealth.org
 
News for Immediate Release:

In the Pink draws record participation, raises most money in event’s 19-year history
The Tidelands Health In the Pink breast cancer awareness walk Saturday was one for the record books.
A record 2,100-plus people donned their best pink to participate in the walk, which was held at a new location this year, Brookgreen Gardens. Sponsors, participants and supporters donated more than $180,000, with proceeds benefiting the Tidelands Health breast care fund.
“We are tickled pink over the results of In the Pink – pun intended,” said Dr. Craig Brackett, who, as a board-certified breast surgeon and medical director of the health system’s breast health program, helped found In the Pink nearly two decades ago. “We are immensely grateful to every walker, donor, sponsor and volunteer for embracing this event and making it a tremendous success.
“Today, as I looked out over the huge crowd of walkers wearing pink, I was overcome by the generous spirit and heartfelt support that filled Brookgreen Gardens. Collectively, we sent a powerful message that no one walks alone when affected by breast cancer.”
Saturday’s event also featured a special surprise for one walker. Dawn Konopka, a local substitute teacher who was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year, was joined in the walk by six friends who traveled from Ohio and surprised Konopka on stage.
“When I turned around and saw my friends, I couldn’t believe it,” Konopka said. “Having breast cancer is not a club that anyone wants to be a part of, but for them to show up for me like this, it means a lot. It warms my heart that they’re here, and I thank God for everyone he’s put in my life, to have my back and show this support.”
Created to celebrate breast cancer survivors and honor those lost to the disease, In the Pink has grown into the region’s premier breast cancer awareness event. In addition to wearing the event T-shirt, it’s become a tradition for participants to show off their best pink accessories – including tutus, hats, earrings and more to help create a festive and inspiring wave of pink along the roughly one-mile walk.
“The support from our community members today was amazing,” said Dr. Angela Mislowsky, a board-certified breast surgeon at Tidelands Health. “When you’re facing breast cancer, you need more than just great medical care. You need the support of your friends, family and community. And, today, that’s what our community so graciously gave to those affected by breast cancer. No one walks alone.”
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About Tidelands Health
Tidelands Health, in collaboration with MUSC Health, is the region’s largest health care provider, serving the Carolinas at four hospitals and more than 70 outpatient locations. More than 2,500 employee, physician and volunteer partners work side by side with our communities to transform the health of our region – promoting wellness, preventing illness, encouraging recovery and restoring health.