MELBOURNE will show its support for Australians impacted by breast cancer this week, hosting the AFLW Pink Lady Match on Thursday night at IKON Park.
The Demons will once again get behind Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) and bring a touch of pink to their clash with GWS, in what will mark the fifth season of support from the club’s AFLW team.
It will be another opportunity to recognise all those diagnosed, and raise awareness for BCNA’s free information and support services for Australians impacted by the devastating disease.
The playing group will wear PLAY4BCNA pink socks to show their supportin support of BCN, while a mini Field of Women and BCNA merchandise pop-up will be set up for the Dees’ first home game of the season at IKON Park.
On Monday, Melbourne’s AFLW program was fortunate enough to hear from BCNA ambassador Jessica Pearce, who shared her incredible story after being diagnosed last October at age 34.
A mum, partner, beauty therapist and registered nurse, Jessica had been in for a mammogram only 13 months prior to her diagnosis, which had come up clear.
It wasn’t until she found a lump herself that she underwent a biopsy, as well as genetic testing that uncovered she was a carrier of the BRCA2 gene mutation, due to family history on her dad’s side.
Following a diagnosis of Stage 2 breast cancer, Jessica had a double mastectomy with immediate reconstruction, before tackling treatment.
Alongside that of her family and friends, the important support, resources and services from BCNA helped Jessica navigate the most challenging of times.
This week, the Demons will aim to raise further awareness ofall the free information, support and advocacy that is available to the 20,000-plus Australians diagnosed with breast cancer each year from BCNA. with thThe AFLW e Pink Lady Match is also coinciding with the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October.
Clubs, schools and sporting associations can get involved and host their own PLAY4BCNA Pink Sports Day, rallying players and supporters together in support of Australians impacted by breast cancer.
