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Pretty in Pink held its 6th annual breast cancer walk in downtown Greenville on Oct. 12, with the theme “Strike Out Breast Cancer.” The event celebrated survivors, who were invited to throw their best pitch into a batting net as a symbol of their fight against the disease.

“We have 55 survivors today,” said Brittany Blankenship, co-founder of the event. “We bring them out every year to show them love and spread awareness. Just to promote self-awareness and self-checks.”

Blankenship, whose mother founded the organization and event six years ago, spoke about the importance of the walk. 

“My mother is a 20-year breast cancer survivor, two times, so this means a lot,” Blankenship said. “We get donations from businesses around Greenville and Montgomery because we are a non-profit organization, but it’s all for a great cause.”

Survivors in attendance were treated to breakfast, coffee and goody bags provided by local businesses. Two women currently battling breast cancer, Markita Harrell and Bel Andrews, led the walk, donning pink boxing gloves as they symbolically fought the disease. More local support came from the Greenville Middle and High School cheerleaders, who rounded out the parade.

Annie Franklin, a five-year survivor, shared why she continues to attend events like these. 

“I come and support this walk because it’s good for all of us,” Franklin said. “We don’t let our sisters fight alone. We’re always here to encourage one another.”

Vendors were set up around the event, and the atmosphere was one of camaraderie and community support, as breast cancer survivors and fighters joined together to spread awareness and encourage one another through their shared experiences.