5 ways the local community gave back during Breast Cancer month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, giving local communities the opportunity to spread the word about one of the most common kind of cancers diagnosed in women.

In the U.S., breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer. It can occur in both men and women, according to the National Cancer Institute. Here’s how the local community gave back during Breast Cancer Awareness Month:

1. ‘No One Walks Alone’ at Making Strides breast cancer walk

Participants filled Fifth Third Field Plaza for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Dayton. More than 13,000 people participated in last year's event, raising close to $250,000. The goal this year is $350,000. From walkers in pink boas and tutus to children's games and music, the Dayton Strides event is designed to be fun and family friendly. LEARN MORE

2. Elder-Beerman launches new shop to benefit breast cancer research

The Bon-Ton Stores Inc., the parent company of Elder-Beerman, has launched its "Pink Shops" in stores across the U.S. to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. Elder-Beerman stores at the Dayton Mall and Northpark Center in Huber Heights are both participating. LEARN MORE

3. Local health network offers free educational breast cancer event

The University of Cincinnati Cancer Institute's Breast Cancer Center will host a free educational event for survivors and their families. The "We See Individual Breast Cancers: You See Personalized Care" breast cancer conference will be hosted from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday at the Kingsgate Marriott Conference Center. LEARN MORE

4. Local hospitals improve prep for surgery after breast cancer

Miami Valley Hospital and Good Samaritan Hospital are now using a new device to prepare patients for reconstructive surgery after breast cancer more quickly, with less pain and discomfort and fewer visits to the doctor. LEARN MORE

5. Pink Ribbon Girls leader shares inspirational journey on ‘TODAY’ — and gets a BIG surprise

The Pink Ribbon Girls kicked off National Breast Cancer Awareness month with an appearance on national television. Heather Salazar, the CEO and president of the Pink Ribbon Girls, and her family appeared on the "Megyn Kelly TODAY" program on Oct. 4, to share her inspirational story involving breast cancer and adoption and how she came to help launch the growing organization that works across Ohio to support women fighting cancer. LEARN MORE

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