Pink picnic held to support cancer survivors

WALLINGFORD, Conn. (WTNH) -- Creating a community of strength through 'pink power.' News 8's Jocelyn Maminta hosted a pink picnic Thursday, serving up hope and support to cancer survivors, family members and friends.

The smooth sound of the saxophone greeted guests at the BJ's in Wallingford, at the annual pink picnic, co-hosted by Yale Cancer Center.

The color of the month was displayed throughout, as cancer survivors gathered in celebration of life.

They listened to Bonnie Lurie, who was diagnosed two years ago.

"I was diagnosed very early," Lurie said.

And she had a double mastectomy.

"I kinda wound up not having any chemotherapy and not having any radiation. And I think again, part of that is you worry about what you think you'll end up looking like," Lurie said. "And really, it's been a gift because you know what, I feel like I look better than I have ever looked."

Patients, regardless of income level, can get the treatment they need.

The head of the Breast Center at Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale-New Haven says it starts with getting a free screening through the local health department.

"It covers your surgery to get rid of the cancer, it covers chemotherapy, it covers radiation," said Dr. Anees Chagpar. "It is important you go through the health department because you have to be diagnosed through that early detection program, but after that your treatment is covered."

Money raised through fundraising campaigns like this one in October, benefits research, prevention, and patient care, as well as community outreach and education.

Last year, the BJ's Charitable Foundation donated $43,000 to Yale Cancer Center.