According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer death in American women. In 2025, an estimated 319,750 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and here on the East End there are lots of events, fundraisers and activities happening to help spread information on how to bring (and hopefully keep) breast cancer awareness to the front line of our thoughts. So, for the rest of this month, be sure to think pink and hit up these local events:
Shelter Island Fall 5K Run/Walk
This Saturday, Oct. 18, it’s the 26th annual Shelter Island Fall 5K Run/Walk to help raise awareness for women’s cancers. Race proceeds will directly benefit Lucia’s Angels and the Coalition for Women’s Cancers (hosts of the annual Girls Night Out fundraiser at Gurney’s in Montauk on Nov. 15) as well as North Fork Breast Health Coalition. Taking place rain or shine, the run/walk starts at 11 a.m at Crescent Beach (35 Shore Road). There’ll be a shuttle bus that runs from 8:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. from the North Ferry to the race location. Pre-registration will be $45 for both walkers and runners, kids 12 and under are $25. Day of registration will cost $50 for both walkers and runners and $30 for kids 12 and under (plus tax and processing fees). The first 400 participants will receive T-shirts and all participants will receive bibs, post-race refreshments, awards and a complimentary BBQ (while supplies last). Runners may register online here.
Breast Cancer Awareness Expo in Bridgehampton
The Center (located at 551 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton) presents its fourth Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Expo this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Providing local resources for patients, survivors and families affected by breast cancer, the expo will include workshops and resources on breast cancer awareness and access to vital health screenings, including annual wellness exams from Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic’s mobile health center. A $25.00 gift card is given to the first 50 people who sign up. This expo has specialized breakout sessions, door and event day prizes, keynote speakers and a community lunch. For more information, call Camryn at 631-537-0616 ext. 105.
Community walk in Hampton Bays
Join Suffolk County’s Department of Health Services’ Office of Minority Health for their final community walk of the year in celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Set for Saturday, Oct. 25, at Sears Bellows County Park (65 Bellows Pond Road, Hampton Bays), the walk will start with a women’s health talk, followed by a guided nature walk (participants will share binoculars to explore birds and wildlife), and the link between personal wellbeing and access to safe, natural places. Set to go from 10 a.m. to noon. Call 631-854-0378 or email [email protected] to register and for more information.
Free screenings in Riverhead
A no-cost breast cancer screening event is at Peconic Bay Medical Center (1333 Roanoke Ave., Riverhead,) on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Northwell Cancer Institute partners with North Fork Radiology to provide a free breast cancer screening for women and help women become aware of their own health status. Free breast health exams will be provided to all, mammograms are available the day of the event at North Fork Radiology for those eligible otherwise, other mammograms can be scheduled for a later date. For more information to register email [email protected].
