GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. – The Tidelands Health In the Pink breast cancer awareness walk broke records on Saturday, drawing over 2,100 participants and raising more than $180,000. Held for the first time at Brookgreen Gardens, the event saw walkers dressed in their best pink attire to support breast cancer awareness and raise funds for the […]
GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. – The Tidelands Health In the Pink breast cancer awareness walk broke records on Saturday, drawing over 2,100 participants and raising more than $180,000.
Held for the first time at Brookgreen Gardens, the event saw walkers dressed in their best pink attire to support breast cancer awareness and raise funds for the Tidelands Health breast care fund.
“We are tickled pink over the results of In the Pink – pun intended,” said Dr. Craig Brackett, a board-certified breast surgeon and medical director of the health system’s breast health program. Dr. Brackett, who co-founded the event nearly 20 years ago, continued, “We are immensely grateful to every walker, donor, sponsor, and volunteer for embracing this event and making it a tremendous success.”
Dr. Brackett reflected on the emotional impact of the day, noting the powerful community spirit: “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.”
One of the highlights of the day was a heartwarming surprise for Dawn Konopka, a local substitute teacher who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Six of her friends traveled from Ohio to join her on stage during the event, catching her completely off guard.
“When I turned around and saw my friends, I couldn’t believe it,” Konopka shared. “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.”
In the Pink was created to celebrate breast cancer survivors and honor those who have lost their battle with the disease. It has since grown into the region’s largest breast cancer awareness event. In addition to wearing event T-shirts, participants continued the tradition of accessorizing with vibrant pink tutus, hats, earrings, and more, creating an inspiring wave of pink along the one-mile walk route.
“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.”
Photo provided Tidelands Health
Photo provided Tidelands Health
Photo provided Tidelands Health
Photo provided Tidelands Health
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