Decked out in various forms of pink garb, they banded together on their journey to raise awareness for breast cancer.

It was with heavy hearts that participants embarked on the 20th annual Lehighton Area Lioness Lions Club Pink Light Walk and Basket Raffle held Tuesday at the Lehighton Boys and Girls Band Hall.

Dr. Luke Rodriguez and hematologist/oncologist Dr. Roberto Fratamico, both from the Lehigh Valley Health Network, served as speakers.

Rodriguez told the audience that breast cancer screening allows them to pick things up easy, and that catching it at a very early stage and getting interventions done are key.

“This isn’t just something that affects the patient, but also family as well,” Rodriguez said.

Fratamico noted that chemotherapy has improved significantly over the years.

“(There’s) 24/7 support all the time,” Fratamico said. “Everyone is just a phone call away.”

Alicia Silliman, event co-chair, as well as past president, Lehighton Area Lioness Lions Club, said she’s excited to have Lehigh Valley Hospital offer cancer care in our community.

Brenda Green, event co-chair and second vice president of the Lehighton Area Lioness Lions Club, said about 30 cancer survivors participated in the event.

After gathering at the band hall, close to 200 walkers took the trek to the amphitheater.

Silliman welcomed those in attendance.

She then recognized the Pink Light Walk Sponsorship Program. The following were acknowledged: Hot Pink Level: St. Luke’s Carbon Campus, Home Comfort Solutions; Pink Ribbon Level: Lehigh Valley Health Network, Jim Thorpe Neighborhood Bank, Iron Valley Real Estate, Steven’s Heating; Survivor Level: Mauch Chunk Trust Company; Carbon Search & Settlement Services, Inc., Jim Thorpe River Adventures, Dean K. Arner; Fuchsia Level: Bennett Family Properties LLC, Walmart, Pamela Gothard Real Estate.

“If it wasn’t for them, we would not be able to have our program and recognize all our survivors,” Silliman said.

Silliman said the event was dedicated in honor of club members and breast cancer survivors Peggy Alberici and Brenda Ahner.

She noted that both ladies participate in all the group’s activities.

The breast cancer awareness event featured a walk. Before the walk, participants were able to purchase basket raffle tickets.

Pink Heels Ambulance also made an appearance. There was also a vendor area.

A short ceremony followed at the amphitheater to recognize breast cancer survivors.

All survivors were acknowledged with a gift and provided with the opportunity to introduce themselves and share their number of years of survivorship.

After returning to the band hall, participants were provided with refreshments.

All events proceeds benefit the PA Breast Cancer Coalition.