Real Men Wear Pink: Uniting to Raise Support, Awareness of Breast Cancer

Community,Physical Health,Community Events,Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Real Men Wear Pink: Uniting to Raise Support, Awareness of Breast Cancer

10.09.2024 | 3 min read

It’s never been more stylish for men to wear pink. That’s because this year, the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) national “Men Wear Pink” campaign is bigger than ever, uniting communities across the country to raise money and awareness to fight breast cancer, including those right here in the Great Lakes State.

Men Wear Pink West Michigan is helping to lead the charge against breast cancer in 2024 with events and initiatives throughout October, including the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of West Michigan event on Oct. 19 in Grand Rapids.

This event is a celebration of courage and hope, a movement designed to unite Michigan communities against breast cancer. For three decades, these 3- to 5-mile non-competitive walks have collectively grown into the nation’s largest breast cancer movement, providing a supportive community for courageous breast cancer survivors and metastatic breast cancer thrivers, caregivers, and families alike.

The importance of Men Wear Pink ambassadors

Ambassadors are crucial to the ACS’ Men Wear Pink campaign. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) Vice President of West Michigan and the Upper Peninsula Joe Hune is a 2024 ambassador, playing a role in fighting the second leading cause of cancer death among U.S. women.

“I have chosen to be an Ambassador for Men Wear Pink because everyone knows someone who has had breast cancer,” Hune said. “Whether it is your mom, aunt, sister, cousin, wife, friend or neighbor, it takes a toll on all of us. I am stepping up to honor and support those who have fought this battle; by raising awareness and funds I hope to make a difference in the lives of those that are facing this difficult journey.”

When you sign up to become a Men Wear Pink ambassador, you commit to:

Wearing pink throughout the month of October
Raising awareness for the cause through their social media networks
Fundraising for the American Cancer Society with the goal of reaching a minimum $2,500

Blue Cross and employees are also getting involved. In addition to wearing pink on the first Thursday in October, employees took part in a friendly competition to determine who wore pink the best, as two company leaders faced off to raise funds.

Details on the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of West Michigan event

Here’s what to expect on the day of the walk:

8 a.m.
- Calder Plaza (300 Monroe Ave. NW Grand Rapids) opens. Enjoy DJ Kate, stage activities, a balloon twister, face painting, and more!
- Coffee and light breakfast items are available for purchase through the Bear Claw Coffee truck.
- Take control of your health with NxGen by getting a Hereditary Cancer Panel.
- Check out the Corewell Mammography Bus.
- Survivors, Thrivers, and Caregivers: Stop by the survivor / thriver celebration area for special activities and goodies. The survivor / thriver picture at 9:45 a.m. at the Calder Statue. No matter where you are in your cancer journey, you’re invited to stop by.
10 a.m.
- Walk Starts
- The main lap is a 1-mile loop. If you would like to walk a 5K walking three laps is recommended.
10:20 a.m. until 11 a.m.
- Walkers will return.
- Snacks and water can be found in the information tent.
- Most pre-walk activities are still available.
11 a.m.
- Calder Plaza closes

If you are interested in volunteering during the event, visit this page to learn more.

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Photo credit: BCBSM