October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the Abington Senior High School Galloping Ghosts put their efforts toward not just tackling their opponents on the field, but also tackling this terrible disease off of the football field. On Friday, Oct. 26, 2018, the Ghosts faced off against CB West, while raising money for a good cause.
The annual game–in partnership with members from the school’s student service organization, Key Club– aims to raise awareness of breast cancer and the local organizations that are aiding in the fight, or helping those who are battling, the disease. This year’s theme was “Pink is Fearless“, which was featured on T-shirts sold to the Abington School District community to raise money for three local organizations: Abington-Jefferson Health, Unite for HER and the Breathing Room Foundation.
These organizations also had tables at the event to educate fans and attendees about breast cancer, including mammography recommendations and options, and self-exam instructions. As a bonus, all students who purchased the $10 T-shirts were granted free admission into the game. This year, more than 2,300 shirts were sold.
In addition, Abington parents and teachers who are breast cancer survivors served as honorary team captains during the coin toss at the start of the game, including:
- Janice Jedlinski, Abington Senior High School teacher
- Marion Utain, Abington Junior High School teacher
- Carol Hopkins, Grandmother of football senior, Tom Lukens
- Maggie Nathans, Mother of football senior, Xavier Nathans-Dair
- Beth Teefy, Representing Unite for HER
Oct. 26 marked the last game of the season for the Galloping Ghosts, and also served as the team’s Senior Night.