October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

In honor of this month, Judy Veron, postage coordinator in the Carbon County commissioners office and a breast cancer survivor, presented the board of commissioners with pink breast cancer ribbon ties. The present is a way to raise awareness about one of the leading causes of deaths in women today."As most of us know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month," said Veron as the commissioners opened the small gift wrapped boxes in front of them. "This is meant for all of us to remind our grandmothers, mothers, wives, daughters, sisters, aunts, cousins, and friends, about the importance of their yearly mammogram. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I would like to present pink ties to all of you in honor of the Carbon County employees and their overwhelming support of cancer survivors, including myself."Everyone's heartfelt support and optimistic attitude continues to go above and beyond my expectations."She noted that the ties were chosen based on the commissioners' personalities. Randall Smith, county administrator; and Commissioner Wayne Nothstein each received pink ties; while Commissioners Charles Getz and William O'Gurek received gray and black ties with pink ribbons on them.Nothstein, who was already wearing a pink shirt and tie, thanked Veron for the special gift."You are a real inspiration to people that have gone through this and I know you had a lot of support from other people and you support those people," he said. "My grandmother was a breast cancer survivor and I applaud you for your strength in dealing with this."O'Gurek and Getz echoed Nothstein's thoughts."I am truly proud of each and every employee," O'Gurek said. "We see everyday the challenges they face, whether it is health issues or work issues or family and friend issues. Together, we help each other as much as we can. Certainly we wanted to be there for you and have been and we really appreciate this. It is a real nice gesture."Getz said, "You certainly are an inspiration and it's nice to have you around."Nothstein then announced that the commissioners will adopt a proclamation in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month at next week's meeting.Veron, who is a 14-year county employee, was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2008.For treatment, Veron underwent a bilateral mastectomy and immediate reconstruction, which she feels played a big role in beating cancer.