Thousands of UTC students, staff and faculty braved mud and the threat of rain on Chamberlain Field in a valiant attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest human ribbon, in support of the fight against breast cancer. Though the attempt fell short of breaking the record, the 2,210 pink ribbon participants celebrated the kickoff for the UTC Pink Symposium. Many were there to encourage survivors. Others were there to remember loved ones.
“I came to honor my sister,” said Debbie Parker, Associate Vice Chancellor, Business and Financial Affairs. “I wrote her name, Deanna Boyd, her birth date and the date of her death from breast cancer on my pink shirt.”
Sponsors for the UTC Pink Symposium include Komen for the Cure, Breast Cancer Network of Strength, UTC Wellness Committee and UTC Women’s Action Council.
Following the Chamberlain Field event, participants gathered inside the UTC University Center to learn more from UTC faculty Dr. Holly Dieken, Dr. Jamie Harvey, Dr. Barry Dale, Dr. Lisa Muirhead, Dr. June Hanks and June Matthews. Information and instruction about breast self-examinations were available as well as several presentations.
“This event allows us an opportunity to talk about the resources available in our community such as support groups, financial assistance, educational workshops, wig and prosthesis banks, physical therapy, prevention, and post-diagnosis. It also allows us an opportunity to provide hope and strength,” said said Carol Oglesby, Coordinator of Student Civic Engagement and Physical Health Education and Promotion.
