As the sun set in Burbank on Thursday, Oct. 1, more than 100 people gathered outside the Roy and Patricia Disney Family Cancer Center and counted down together as the building illuminated in a pink light, marking the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness month. The building becomes a visible symbol of support for patients, a celebration of survivors and a tribute to loved ones lost to breast cancer.
The annual Pink Lighting Ceremony at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center brought community members, patients, families and caregivers together for a free event packed with resources, food, drinks, giveaways, and a sound bath demo.
The evening gave attendees an opportunity to learn about the care and resources available right here in Burbank. Inside the center, booths shared information about breast screening, genetics and genomics, rehabilitation, integrative medicine, pharmaceuticals, surgery and more.
“Breast cancer touches countless lives in our community,” said Nicketti Handy, M.D., a breast surgical oncologist at Providence. “This gathering is an opportunity to come together in support of patients and families while encouraging everyone to prioritize regular screenings and preventive care.”
Handy and Richard Gillespie, M.D., the center’s medical director and a thoracic surgical oncologist, delivered remarks during the free community event. Honoring survivors and remembering loved ones were central to the gathering, along with raising awareness of breast health and the importance of early detection.
“Every pink light represents a patient, survivor, family member or friend whose life has been touched by breast cancer,” Gillespie said. “Together, we can raise awareness, encourage screenings and provide hope for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis.”
That support continues long after the ceremony ends. The Disney Family Cancer Center provides comprehensive care spanning prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship, with programs that also address the emotional and everyday challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
Its Integrative Medicine Program complements conventional cancer treatment with services such as nutritional guidance, mindful movement, meditation, acupuncture and massage. Through the center’s Thrivorship Program, eligible Providence patients in active treatment or who have recently completed treatment, along with their caregiver or chosen support person, can receive a limited number of individual and group integrative medicine therapies at no cost.
Movement classes include tai chi and several forms of yoga, and wellness workshops include Art Expressions, Healthy Weight workshops and monthly nutrition talks with a dietitian, all free for Thrivorship participants.
For patients navigating changes in their appearance during treatment, the second-floor Boutique & Appearance Center offers free services including haircuts, styling consultations, and wig selection and fittings. They also have pop ins from the Beauty Bus stylists who provide manicures on Wednesdays by appointment.
The center’s “Living with Cancer” support group creates a space for people with firsthand experience of cancer to connect, discuss practical concerns and learn about available resources. These services reflect the many ways support can take shape at the Roy and Patricia Disney Family Cancer Center.
Throughout October, the pink lights will remain a nightly reminder of the people at the heart of the ceremony. For Burbank, the gathering offered a chance to stand beside loved ones facing breast cancer and honor those who have fought. It’s also a reminder for women to schedule their annual breast exams, and to use early detection screening available within our community.
