PINK was the colour of choice on Saturday night at Casey Fields, as Melbourne continued its support of Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).
The proud partnership, which is into its 17th year, saw the Demons pull on pink socks for their clash against Carlton, shining a light on all Australians impacted by the disease.
A mini ‘Field of Women’ took pride of place behind the goals, allowing attendees to share messages of support, while pink hats were aplenty around the ground.
The pre-game marked a special moment for breast cancer survivor Aimee Hind, who had the honour of tossing the coin for captains Daisy Pearce and Kerryn Harrington.
Get around the pink socks 💗
— 7AFL (@7AFL) March 12, 2022
Support ➡️ https://t.co/2GTtFjen4x#AFLWDeesBlues pic.twitter.com/EPqfw6FY6f
Aimee, whose family are all Demons supporters, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 when she was 25 weeks pregnant with her second child, Skyla.
Finding a lump that she suspected was a blocked milk duct, Aimee underwent treatment throughout the early stages of 2021 before having a bilateral mastectomy in August, spending a week in hospital with no visitors.
While she is still due to have further surgery down the track, the 28-year-old has now been cancer-free for a year and a half.
Aimee’s daughter Lexi, who has just started primary school, also had a special role on Saturday, running out with the team as a junior mascot.
The cutest video you’ll see all day. 😍#HellYeah | #AFLWDeesBlues pic.twitter.com/qPGGMs5YUW
— Melbourne AFLW (@MelbourneAFLW) March 12, 2022
She was joined by 11-year-old Mabel, who lost her paternal grandmother to breast cancer, with the duo running through a pink banner dedicated to BCNA and 50-gamer Libby Birch.
In addition to the pre-game activities, the day encouraged local sporting clubs to register to host their own PLAY4BCNA Pink Sports Day.
All community clubs can get involved in a variety of ways, from players wearing custom-designed pink playing kits on the field, to purchasing BCNA pink laces, socks or scrunchies, or even hosting a fundraising luncheon.
Registration is simple, online and FREE, with BCNA supplying a free support kit to promote the event.
BCNA works tirelessly to ensure all Australians affected by breast cancer receive the best care, treatment and support, at such a challenging time.
