'We Think Pink' benefits area breast cancer patients

During the month of October, the Brainerd area is thinking pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

This year, the "We Think Pink" fundraising efforts, organized by the Brainerd Dispatch in partnership with Essentia Health-St. Joseph's Medical Center, will benefit local patients struggling with breast cancer.

A portion of the funds will go to the St. Joseph's Foundation to help patients with costs associated with breast cancer treatments and to the Pink Ribbon Cupboard, which supports local women who need financial help while receiving chemotherapy.

By donating $5 or more, community members can receive a pink ribbon to wear and have their name included in a special pink edition of the Brainerd Dispatch on October 15. Donation locations include the Brainerd Dispatch, Essentia Health-St. Joseph's Medical Center, Essentia Health-Brainerd Clinic and Prairie Bay Grill & Catering.

Also, a new event called "Pinktoberfest" will raise money for this initiative. On Thursday, Prairie Bay will host an evening of German-inspired hors d'oeuvres, pink drinks and games.

Tickets are $15, and include food and one drink ticket. Tickets are available at the Brainerd Dispatch, Prairie Bay and the St. Joseph's Gift Shop.

"It's great to see the community get involved with breast cancer awareness," Jennifer Burris, breast health coordinator at St. Joseph's said in a news release. "I'm so pleased that the majority of the funds collected through this effort will go to support local women who need help during tough times."