In October, the NY Arrows embark on their 3rd Annual Pink the Rink campaign, donning pink jerseys for the entire month. The initiative serves a dual purpose: raising funds and creating awareness for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The Pink the Rink tradition began in the fall of 2021, with the Arrows passionately advocating for breast cancer awareness and emphasizing the importance of self-exams for women of all ages. This month-long effort includes special fundraising events, such as Parents Night Out, where ticket proceeds support their cause. Additionally, donations are welcomed at all home games, featuring 50/50 drawings, raffles, auctions, and culminating in a Coaches Charity game.
While Pink the Rink is a common theme during October, this cause hits close to home for the Arrows Organization and their families, following the loss of a beloved member this summer. Adina Perullo, who had been battling breast cancer, sadly passed away on August 7, 2023. Adina’s son, Luca, joined the Arrows in the summer of 2021, and in her honor, the Arrows chose to wear pink jerseys that October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Adina fought Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer, a particularly aggressive and terminal form of the disease. Despite the daunting prognosis, Adina remained strong, emphasizing awareness and never wanting anyone to feel sorry for her. Arrows President Robert Albi remembers her as someone who “could light up a room with her infectious smile, strong will, and never-quit attitude.”
Albi’s words reflect the enduring impact of Adina’s strength and message: “Adina will always be my hero, and her message will live on as we continue to wear Pink the Rink Jerseys and raise more money to support those in need and to find a cure for this terrible disease.”
In addition to their Pink the Rink campaign, the Arrows are also participating in a Breast Cancer walk, led by Courtney Banks, a Breast Cancer Survivor and mother of Arrows player Ethan. Courtney’s journey began in 2020 when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 Invasive Ductal Breast Cancer while navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Her determination to provide a distraction for her son Ethan led her to enroll him in the Arrows organization.
Courtney, a source of inspiration, shares her story with Arrows parents, highlighting the significance of self-exams and the importance of not delaying mammogram appointments. Her message resonates: “I want to share my story with you because I want to help as many people as I can.”
On Saturday, she leads the way at the 30th Annual Making Strides Breast Cancer Walk at Jones Beach, hoping for the support of Arrows players and parents alike.
The funds raised by the Arrows go to support families battling breast cancer, as well as Metavivors, the first foundation exclusively focused on Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer research, and the Mena Singer Foundation, founded by two hockey players who lost their mother to breast cancer in 2015.
Mark your calendars for Pink the Rink Weekend next weekend, an event that promises to unite the community and make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. If you wish to donate to the cause, you can do so here.