NYC Parks and Recreation held a breast cancer survivor walk which began at the Red Hook Recreation Center on 155 Bay Street on Oct. 27. The event included speeches from survivors and community leaders. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The event was held in the Park’s facility to bring awareness and make sure that both men and women are checking themselves for any lumps or other symptoms of cancer. It is also crucial that people see their doctors regularly and make sure to routinely have tests including mammograms.
Isiah Forde and Gilbert Gonzalez from the Rec Center both spoke about the importance of getting tested and Gonzalez spoke about his own experiences as a cancer survivor. Many survivors from Red Hook spoke about their own experiences as well. They included people of different ages with different backgrounds who were diagnosed at different stages. The goal for all of them was to spread awareness.
Activist and leader Lillie Marshall spoke, saying she wanted to bring awareness about Red Hook residents who have gotten cancer which she believes is related to the dust and toxins that came to Red Hook after 9/11.
Another key point the speakers raised was the importance of making sure that Black and Hispanic residents are getting the proper resources and medical care to prevent and treat cancer.
The day concluded with a walk around Ballfield 9 and a celebration of the survivors.
