AdventHealth Palm Coast Pink On Parade’s Pumped Up Return

PALM COAST, Fla. (October 9, 2022) Hundreds of runners and walkers took their mark Sunday morning in the race against breast cancer.

Staging the first in-person Pink On Parade in three years, the turnout was robust and the participants were exuberant about the event dressing in fluffy pink tutus, pink knee socks, and an assortment of outfits showing their support for creating awareness.

A first this year, breast cancer survivors and the loved ones of those who have passed from the disease were presented with a special medal to signify their experience.  Each medal was delivered with care by members of the Boss Ladies of Flagler County as part of the Stories of Survival campaign featuring breast cancer survivors in Flagler County.

“My sister is a breast cancer survivor. I love Flagler County because they believe in taking care of their people,” said Ana Reyes-Ouzts, co-founder of the organization.

Receiving a medal, Tony Papandrea, emcee of the annual fundraiser and chair of the AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation, accepted his on behalf of his wife Dottie, who is a breast cancer survivor.

“We stand behind finding a cure and conquering cancer for all types of cancer, as well as breast cancer,” said Kay Simpkins, Business Development Associate, Physician Relations, Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute.

Recognizing oncologist Dr. Padmaja Sai and surgeon Dr. Steven Bower, Papandrea thank the Pink On Parade participants for helping support the efforts to provide screenings and diagnostic services to those in need.

“The Pink On Parade was a great success due to our community’s support. So many organizations got together with us today, brought people enthusiasm, raising money, awareness for breast cancer,” said John Subers, director of the AdventHealth Palm Coast Foundation.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better day,” he said.

People weren’t the only ones looking stylish on Sunday as they gathered around the bubbly sign donated for the event by Yard deSigns.

“We thought it was important to have a place for the supporters to be with the fighters and the survivors, and have a fun place to do those pictures,” said lawn decorator and owner Tahni Chiarelli.

Pets competed in the Pink Up Your Pet contest with nearly a dozen pooches dressed up in a variety of styles ranging from a floral decorated pink baby carriage to pink streaked hair and matching accessories with their owners.

Sponsored in part by Palm Coast and The Beaches Real Estate, it was a who’s who of pets on parade for the contest, all for a good cause according to Melinda Rivera.

“We teamed up with the Flagler Humane Society for the pet contest so part of the pet-friendly walk go to the humane society,” said Rivera. “What best way to bring awareness than a puppy in pink.”

The mission is personal for Rivera.

“I was 29 years old when I was first diagnosed and now I’m 43 years old. I beat it,” she said. “Even before your journey starts, always be an advocate for yourself. I was in my 20s and nobody really wanted to listen to me because I was so young but I advocated for myself and sure enough I did have breast cancer. Always have faith. That’s what I say.”

The timed raced was overseen by the City of Palm Coast’s Parks and Recreation department, and lead Jared Dawson was thrilled by the turnout as was Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin, who distributed finisher medals to the runners and walkers upon completion.

“It’s great to have this event back in person again,” said Dawson.

“Just to see, normally when you have an event that’s been gone for a while, it comes back in person, you don’t really get that kind of momentum built back up but this came back full force, a lot of people out here. Feels like a thousand people out here right now, not even ones that are running but people that are coming to be a part of what’s going on out here. (I’m) extremely proud. They’re all out here for a good cause, supporting a good cause. It fills my heart to see this many people come out here and support this.”

“I’m looking around at so many smiling faces. Everyone is excited about helping out the Pink Army and fighting breast cancer,” said Alfin. “These folks have come out early, dedicated their time but they’ve had a really good time working together for a single cause.”

Participants were invited to share a meal with the Ladies of Flagler County team, whose tailgate set up offered pancakes and bacon for hungry families and presenting a ceremonial check for more than $1,600 in addition to the 60+ registered team members taking part in the event.

“I just think that it’s very important for all women to support other women,” said LOFC administrator Deana Cedar. “To come out with the community and just be bigger than who we are.”