by Rodger Wheeler

Created on: October 22, 2010

I never really cared for the color pink. Back in the ‘80s, when I was in high school, I do recall owning a pink shirt, but wearing it to school always brought about a day of self-consciousness, so those days were few and far between. And ever since, pink has not been in my wardrobe.

But recently, everywhere I turn I see shades of pink in places that never donned the color before. Football uniforms, soccer jerseys, volleyball uniforms, bracelets, headbands and so much more. And let me just say, I like it.

These groups, from professional sports teams to high school programs, are getting in on the fight to rid our world of breast cancer. And I say, “More power to ‘em.”

The month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this year signals the 25th anniversary of spreading awareness, education and empowerment. Seeing professional football players in pink this past weekend was inspiring to so many people, from those who are currently dealing with the disease to those who have family members who have passed because of its affects, even for people who have conquered breast cancer and live each day as an added gift.

It is especially inspiring for me as my mom falls in one of those categories—she is a proud breast cancer survivor. I like to think that her survival for the past 15-plus years can be attributed to major endorsements by large entities like the National Football League.

We are all used to seeing the little pink ribbons, but when you see a 350-pound offensive lineman decked out with pink shoes and a pink mouthpiece, that image seems to stick in your mind. And when that image sticks, it allows us to do more to help eliminate cancer completely. That’s why I applaud the high school programs as they get involved as well.

My mom is pretty special to me and there have been numerous times over the past 15 years that I needed her, times when I wasn’t sure what I would have done without her.

So thanks to all the pink-clad athletes. As my favorite announcer, the late Jack Buck, once said, “Pardon me while I stand and applaud.” So I think I will go deep in my closet and see if that pink shirt still fits. Now that I think about it, I just might change my favorite color.

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