Editor’s note: Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an international health campaign held every October, promotes screening and prevention of the disease, which affects 2.3 million women worldwide. Wrapped in pink, the month’s programs are offered by groups ranging from breast cancer advocacy organizations to local community organizations to major retailers. Pascack Press is honored to bring you this timely voice from our community.
Reflecting on my journey as a breast cancer survivor fills me with immense gratitude and a deep sense of purpose to raise awareness for the millions impacted by this disease. As we observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I am reminded of all those facing similar challenges, each with their own story of courage, loss, and hope—including my own family’s journey.
My battle with breast cancer was more than just a personal fight; it was part of a larger narrative, shaped by my family’s history of hereditary cancer. Knowing my risk before my diagnosis made the journey empowering and daunting, and yet, I found strength in ways I never expected. Leaning on the love and support of my family, friends, and community, I discovred a resilience I hadn’t realized I possessed.
Years before my diagnosis, I’d been involved with FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered), a community dedicated to hereditary cancer awareness and support. Through this organization and Pascack Valley Medical Center’s breast cancer support group, I found invaluable resources and a supportive network. One of these blessings was Spoil Me Pink, a nonprofit that provides a day of beauty and style for women battling breast cancer. Participating in this event reminded me an act of kindness can restore dignity, hope, and joy, even amid difficult times.
My journey with cancer also reawakened the call to honor my late brother, a 22-year veteran, who lost his battle with hereditary pancreatic cancer in 2022. Inspired by his service, I am committed to supporting veterans and their families, who often face battles of their own. My family experienced this firsthand through the compassionate outreach of Fisher House, a nonprofit that provides housing for veterans’ families during medical crises. Thanks to their Hero Miles program, my family was able to be with my brother in his final days. At a fundraiser in Hillsdale (2023 Sippy Poo BBQ), I was honored to receive a commemorative coin from the CEO/chairman of Fisher House, a testament to the lasting impact of these organizations on our lives.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month draws to a close, I invite everyone to take action in the fight against cancer. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, each of us has the power to make a difference. And as we support causes like Spoil Me Pink or Fisher House, let’s also remember our veterans, who have selflessly served us all.
My journey has taught me the incredible power of resilience, the strength of community, and the importance of advocacy. Together, by sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can create a world that is more compassionate and empowered to face the challenges ahead. Let’s continue to stand together—for survivors, for families, for our veterans, and for a future filled with hope.
Angelina Capalbo is a community advocate and real estate professional dedicated to making a difference here and in the lives of those impacted by cancer. A breast cancer survivor, she uses her experiences to advocate for awareness and support systems. Her work extends to honoring veterans, as inspired by her late brother’s legacy of service.