Although there will be no public gathering for Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital’s Paint the Town Pink this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the tradition of honoring loved ones with bows will continue. The beautiful bows have become a key element of the Paint the Town Pink, which has been held each October since 2008 to raise awareness of the importance of early detection in the fight against breast cancer and to honor those affected by the disease.
For a $20 donation to the Manistee Hospital Foundation, members of the public may have a name placed on one of the large pink bows that will adorn light posts in downtown Manistee from October 1 until October 15. All proceeds stay local to support women’s services at Manistee Hospital.
“Everyone at Manistee Hospital is grateful for our community’s support of Paint the Town Pink over the last twelve years,” said Gina Hodges, diagnostic imaging manager at Manistee Hospital. “Thanks to that support, we have been able to purchase and maintain advanced diagnostic technology, including 3D mammography, which improves our ability to detect breast cancer at the earliest stages.”
Hodges has been an active participant in Paint the Town Pink since its inception, helping with planning, speaking to the crowd, and participating in the walk. “I am passionate about this event because of my professional career in diagnostic imaging and my deep commitment to the fight against cancer,” she said. “The more we get the word out about the importance of regular screenings, the more lives we can save.”
Hodges said canceling the event was necessary because of public health concerns and the vulnerability of many attendees and volunteers. “I will miss the wonderful sense of community and fellowship we feel at the walk,” she said. “But I know having the beautiful bow downtown will serve as a fitting tribute to those who have struggled with cancer.”
The hospital is planning a series of virtual activities and educational opportunities to preserve the spirit of Paint the Town Pink. More information and bow order forms are available at munsonhealthcare.org/pttp. Names for bows must be submitted to the hospital by September 30.