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Last updated 8:51 am CT February 09, 2010.
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Think Pink!
DU QUOIN-It's a picture perfect day in Du Quoin. Cheerleaders at Du Quoin elementary and middle school have traded the traditional red and black for pink. It's part of a district wide effort to raise awareness for breast cancer.
"My mother in law Peg had breast cancer this year and a couple of our staff members in the past and currently have had breast cancer. Just wanted to do a little awareness project for them," said teacher Pam Pursell.
She organized this pink out. Teachers and staff members are also wearing jeans Friday. It's part of the Lee National Denim Day.
"All across the nation companies are wearing blue jeans and giving $5 in honor of the cause."
They're also raising money with Pennies for Pink. So far, teachers have collected more than a thousand dollars. Principal Peg Pursell appreciates the efforts by everyone.
"I can't believe the outpouring of support and the help they've given me here at school. I've been able to work through all of this. They've helped me out, stepped up and done the things that I can't do and it's been great," said Peg.
The American Cancer Society says the number of breast cancer deaths has dropped by two percent since 1990. That's in part to earlier detection initiatives.
Southern Illinois Healthcare's Cancer Care Service's has started a new campaign. It's called Buddy Check 9.
Women are encouraged to find a partner to remind each other to do a self breast exam on the ninth of each month. Contact SIH for more details.
by Kevin Hunsperger
khunsperger@wsiltv.com
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