Five Southland landmarks are going pink this month, and for the first time, ILT Stadium is joining them.
The Gore Brown Trout Sculpture, Invercargill's Band Rotunda, Feldwick Street Gates and Gala Street Fountain are all part of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ's Global Illuminations campaign through October — 114 landmarks across New Zealand lighting up in support of those affected by breast cancer and to push the message that early detection saves lives. ILT Stadium's inclusion makes it a Southland five this year.
The displays coincide with the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal, running Friday October 16 and Saturday October 17. Thousands of volunteers will be out across the country with pink buckets collecting for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ's work in breast health education, research, specialist nursing support and advocacy for faster, fairer diagnosis and care.
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ chief executive Vanessa Sorenson says the scale of the disease is easy to underestimate. "Every year, more than 3,700 New Zealanders are diagnosed with breast cancer and around 650 die from it. Behind every number is someone who matters deeply to their family, friends and community — and we know more of those lives can be saved."
Sorenson says the lights are meant to spark more than just conversation. "When Southland lights up in pink, we hope it gets people talking and reminds them to take care of their breast health. Know what is normal for your breasts, have any changes checked by a doctor and attend mammograms when you're eligible."
The ask from the foundation is practical and wide-ranging. "There are so many ways to play a part this October," Sorenson said. "You can volunteer for the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal, make a donation, share reliable breast health information or simply remind someone you care about to check their breasts. Every action takes us closer to a future where more people with breast cancer live — and live well."
The foundation encourages women of all ages to know the normal look and feel of their breasts and to get any new or unusual change checked by a doctor. From age 45, women are eligible for a free mammogram every two years through BreastScreen New Zealand.
Volunteers are still needed for the street appeal. To sign up or find out more about Breast Cancer Awareness Month, visit breastcancerfoundation.org.nz/bcam.