Beyond October: Our Community Showed Up And Why We’re Just Getting Started
Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us of the strength and solidarity that exists across our communities. But this year? This year was different. It was bigger, bolder, and filled with moments that showed just how much heart Ohio has when it comes to fighting breast cancer.
Throughout the month, the Josette Beddell Memorial Foundation participated in over 25 events across Northeast Ohio, partnering with high schools, local businesses, universities, and community groups to raise awareness and vital funds. From soccer fields to volleyball courts, from bingo to bakeries, we saw the community rise up, not just to wear pink, but to take action.
High school sports were a major highlight this year. More than a dozen schools hosted "Kick for a Cure" and "Volley for a Cure" games, with student athletes dedicating their time and energy to celebrate survivors, honor those in treatment, and remember lives lost. These games weren’t just competitions; they were powerful acts of community care, often featuring survivor recognitions, pink uniforms, and heartfelt tributes. The entire Federal League, plus Hudson, Sandy Valley, Waterloo, Fairless, and more, all brought their unique energy and passion to the field and court, proving that young people are a force in this fight.
On the community front, events like Dink for Pink Pickleball Tournament, Bingo for Boo-bies in memory of Erin Kramer, the Worthwhile Mile with Fierce Females of Plain Local Schools, and the Pink Ribbon Pamper Party at Spa at Atrium brought people together in more personal and intimate ways. Businesses like Danny Boys and 7-Scoops turned everyday purchases into meaningful contributions, donating proceeds from special menu items throughout the month. And thanks to creative partners like Michael D’s, where guest bartenders poured drinks for a cause, and Quality Heating & Cooling, who launched a mailer campaign to thousands of homes, our reach extended even further.
This year’s awareness month was more than symbolic; it was deeply impactful. Every dollar raised, every conversation started, and every person honored moves us closer to our mission: providing financial assistance to individuals and families impacted by breast cancer right here in Ohio.
But here’s the truth: breast cancer doesn’t just affect people in October. The challenges…medical bills, missed work, travel to appointments, emotional stress…continue every day of the year. That’s why our work doesn’t stop when the pink comes down.
At JBMF, we’re committed to supporting our community year-round. Because when a woman is diagnosed in March, or a family struggles in June, they deserve just as much support as they’d receive in October. That’s where you come in. Your continued support, through donations, partnerships, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, helps us be there for families exactly when they need us most.
We’re deeply grateful to everyone who showed up this October. Let’s keep showing up. Let’s keep caring loudly. Let’s keep fighting.
Because WE. HATE. CANCER.