Mustangs corral money for 'Think Pink'

BLUE BELL — The Montgomery County Community College Mustangs Women’s Basketball team joined women's basketball programs across the country in the annual “Think Pink” campaign against breast cancer.

The Mustangs raised $600 through the sale of pink awareness bracelets and by collecting donations throughout January. The proceeds will benefit Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC), an international nonprofit breast cancer education and support organization based locally in Montgomery County.

Mustangs head coach Kelly Donohue first got the team involved in the “Think Pink” campaign in 2008.

“I wanted the team to be involved in a community project that everyone could relate to,” Donohue said. “Most of us know someone who has been affected by breast cancer, so it made sense for us to participate.”

Mary Grace Lux, a sophomore on the team, has had her life affected by cancer.

“My mom is a breast cancer survivor, so I am proud to be able support her in any way I can,” she said.

Each player was given 25 bracelets to sell to friends and family members.  They also purchased customized pink T-shirts and matching accessories to wear during the game warm up.  

Players and coaches from the team presented Joanne Cottman, a breast cancer survivor and volunteer for Living Beyond Breast Cancer, with a check during halftime of the Mustangs’ last regular season game Feb. 5.

Cottman, who has volunteered for LBBC for four years, said she appreciates the efforts the team has made in support of the organization and its goals.

Pictured, in the back row, from left, are assistant coach Leanne Moore, Mary Lux, Jasmine Boone, Remi Gerwitz, Mercedes Harris and assistant coach Wyatt Boughter; in the front row, from left, are Kristy Ragbir, Julia Worthington, Allison Hershman, Melissa Alpuche, Laeeqa Collins-Pressley, Carla Sirak, Janay Winston, Living Beyond Breast Cancer volunteer Joanne Cottman and head coach Kelly Donohue.

Information and photo courtesy of Alana J. Mauger/Montgomery County Community College