Penn College’s Medical Imaging Club continued its Pink Out tradition, dressing in rosy hues recently to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The club, made up of students in the radiography program, holds the Pink Out to honor those who have battled or are battling breast cancer and to educate the community about breast cancer, breast self-exams and the role radiographers play in the detection and treatment of breast cancer: Graduates of the radiography program can go on to specialize in breast imaging (mammography or MRI) or pursue additional schooling for radiation therapy, which is used to treat breast cancer.
In addition to dressing in pink, the club set up an informational table where visitors could touch a model of a breast to experience what a suspicious lump feels like or write the name of a loved one who has battled breast cancer on a ribbon to be hung on the club’s bulletin board throughout the month. They also distributed silicone bracelets with supportive message and flyers that explained mammography and how to do a breast self-exam.
“Our students are passionate about this topic,” said Christine L. Eckenrod, director of radiography. “Our own Lisa Dostick, clinical supervisor, is a breast cancer survivor. Many of our students have had loved ones survive or lose their battle with breast cancer. One in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, and the disease affects men, as well – about 1% of all breast cancers are in men.”
