Washington Health’s Think Pink Event Promotes Breast Cancer Awareness

This is the 17^th year that Washington Health has sponsored its Think Pink community event to commemorate the American Cancer Society’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The event brings breast cancer survivors – often wearing pink and smiling broadly -- together for support and camaraderie. “There’s a special kind of energy that fills the air,” says Christine Mikkelsen, BSN, RN, Washington Health Women’s Center clinical coordinator and nurse navigator.

Think Pink, a spirited health fair and educational event takes place on Oct. 16, from 5 to 7 p.m. Women can learn more about their risk of getting breast cancer and the latest advancements in screening and treatment.

Connection, Compassion, Community

Mikkelsen elaborates, “There’s a strength born from shared stories, hope, and unwavering support. This isn’t just an event. It’s a gathering of warriors; women from all over the community who come together to lift each other up and remind one another they’re not alone. You can feel the energy the moment you walk in. It’s not just about awareness. It’s about connection, compassion, and community.”

Informational booths will showcase resources from Washington Health, along with the community, and a lineup of speakers will discuss the latest in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Speakers include:

• Kimberly Hartz, Washington Health CEO, offering welcoming remarks.
• William Dugoni, MD, medical director of the Women’s Center, discussing center updates.
• Victor Chen, MD, presenting on radiation therapy.
• Bogdan Eftimie, MD, addressing botanical use during treatment and recovery.
• Victoria Leiphart, MD, returning as the event emcee.

Among other topics of note include 3D mammography, which helps doctors detect cancers early and more easily, along with minimizing the need for women to be called back for additional images.

“The event provides expert information and helpful resources while fostering a supportive, educational environment for the entire community,” notes Dr. Dugoni. “It’s almost like a reunion and a large support system for breast cancer survivors. But it’s also very effective at providing information for women trying to find breast health resources.”

Think Pink takes place in the tent atrium at Washington West, 2500 Mowry Ave., and features craft activities, a photo booth, henna tattoo artists, and a drawing for gift baskets during the first hour. A light vegetarian boxed dinner will also be provided.

Excellent Cancer Care Right in Fremont

Women in the area are fortunate to have the Washington Health Women’s Center right in Fremont, which can diagnose, treat, and provide support and services for breast cancer patients. Mikkelsen explains, “Women don’t have to travel out of the area to get renowned doctors and state-of-the-art care.”

She describes the significance of her role: “A nurse navigator offers support to women even before the actual diagnosis. I help patients from the first abnormal screening mammogram, to coming back for additional imaging, to biopsy and follow-up care. I’m also a resource
for people with a strong family history of breast cancer. I can help them get connected to genetic counseling.”

This is the 40^th year that National Breast Cancer Awareness Month has been commemorated by health care organizations across the country. In 1985, the American Cancer Society designated October as the month to promote screening and prevention of breast cancer, which affects 2.3 million women worldwide. The Think Pink campaign supports those diagnosed with breast cancer, educates about risk factors, and encourages women to have a yearly screening.

“The Washington Health cancer team isn’t just here to treat. We’re here to walk alongside every patient, every step of the way,” says Mikkelsen. This event is a beautiful reflection of that commitment. Think Pink is more than a celebration. It's a moment of unity, a place where stories are honored, and where hope is renewed. The most moving part of the event is watching women — many of whom have never met — embrace each other like family. That’s the kind of support that changes lives.”

The Think Pink event is free, but registration is required. For more information and to register, visit https://www.washingtonhealth.com/events/event-details/?event=44393 or call 800.963.7070.

To schedule a mammogram, obtain a physician referral and call 510.818.7410. To learn more about the Washington Health Women’s Center, visit https://www.washingtonhealth.com/services/womens-center/