October is breast cancer awareness month in the United States. Throughout Sandpoint and the rest of the nation, people utilize this month to spread awareness and raise money for those affected by breast cancer.

Junior Grace Meyer has been personally affected by breast cancer, as her mother, Jenny Meyer passed away in 2008 after an eight year battle with the disease.

“I think of nights at my grandma’s with idea that my mom might not be coming home this time,” Meyer said. “Or playing with toys in hospitals since mom was getting her blood drawn.”

One in eight women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lifetime, and many of them will not beat it. So, in memory of those who fought, the families affected, and in honor of those fighting, the nation wears pink, and hosts various fundraisers and events.

“NFL and other large corporations do an incredible job making it recognized nationally,”  Meyer said. “Locally, it’s also great to see a community unite with programs such as Celebrate Life and Community Cancer Services.”

Sandpoint’s main event to promote awareness was Boobs n’ Beer 5k, a fun run that was a part of Oktoberfest, with all the proceeds going towards victims and families that were affected by breast cancer.

“Boobs and Beer is also great, although the name is a little obscene,” Meyer said. “And it raised a large amount for those in need.”

Sandpoint also hosts Canines Against Cancer, a donation-only grooming day and barbecue at the Pooch Parlor. While Celebrate Life is not in October, this additionally event raises awareness and funds for local families affected by cancer.

“[Donating] is super beneficial to the cancer community since there’s a lot more expenses than just treatment,” Meyer said.

Sandpoint High School also raises awareness for breast cancer. This year, the girls soccer and volleyball teams  tied their hair with pink ribbons and the cheer team used pink pom-poms at football games to show their support for the local community.

National sports also help to raise awareness. The NFL has been dressing up their fields, players and sidelines in pink since 2009 in recognition of the month.

Regardless of the time of year, supporting breast cancer awareness on any level greatly raises awareness for the people affected.

“Being in a family with someone who has cancer or having cancer yourself is life changing,” Meyer said. “And help, whether monetary or not, is the most incredible relief you can experience.”