October isn’t just about pumpkins and cooler nights; it’s about something much more important — Breast Cancer Awareness Month. And, in the Central Valley, the Valley Pink Patch campaign is leading the charge, bringing people together to make a real impact.

This isn’t just another charity event. It’s a movement powered by law enforcement, healthcare workers, survivors, and the entire community, all rallying around one goal: to fight breast cancer.

This year marks the sixth anniversary of the Pink Patch campaign, and the kickoff event at Clovis Community Medical Center felt more powerful than ever. With officers proudly wearing their pink patches and survivors sharing their incredible stories of strength, you could feel the energy in the air — this was a day about unity, support, and determination.

The Power of Community Action

The event started with Katie Zenovich, senior vice president of development and external affairs at Community Health System, welcoming everyone with her usual warmth. She didn’t sugarcoat it — this campaign is about saving lives, plain and simple.

“It’s the first day of October, and October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. What better day to start a campaign for Pink Patch, a fundraiser we partner on with law enforcement to raise money for those battling breast cancer,” Zenovich said.

Her words hit home as she spoke about how far this campaign has come, growing from a small check presentation to a Valleywide movement that’s making a difference in the lives of patients every day.

In its six years, the Valley Pink Patch campaign has raised over $600,000 to support the Marjorie E. Radin Breast Care Center. This year alone, they’ve already pulled in $130,000, and the month’s just getting started. The goal? To beat last year’s total of $163,000. And if the enthusiasm at this event is any sign, they’re well on their way to crushing it.

Real Stories of Strength

The most impactful moments of the day came when survivors shared their stories. Agnieszka ‘Augie’ Street took the mic to talk about her journey, and man, her determination was something else. Diagnosed with breast cancer in April of this year, Street didn’t let it slow her down. After surgery and treatments, she still managed to tackle 55 miles of the John Muir Trail — solo.

Her message? Be stubborn.

“I want all of you affected by cancer to be stubborn. Stubborn to fight,” she said, earning a standing ovation from the crowd. Her story wasn’t just inspiring — it was a reminder of what’s possible when we stand together and fight for something bigger than ourselves.

Law Enforcement Steps Up 

The law enforcement officers at the event weren’t just there for show — they’re part of the backbone of this campaign. The officers wear their pink patches throughout October as a visible sign of their commitment to raising awareness. Joe Garza, Reedley’s police chief, spoke about what the campaign means to him and his fellow officers:

“This is an opportunity for law enforcement to come together and support survivors of breast cancer. It shows the unity and bond we have with these women,” Garza explained.

It’s not every day you see police officers teaming up for a cause like this, but the Valley Pink Patch campaign has created something special here — an honest connection between the community and those who serve it.

Tony Botti, public information officer for the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, also shared a story about his mom’s fight with breast cancer. His words reflected the kind of personal connection that makes this campaign so important:

“In 2003, when my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, it hit home. But she said, ‘I’m not giving up,’ and 21 years later, she’s still with us.”

Botti’s message was clear — there’s hope on the other side of this fight. And for anyone going through it, the support of your family, your community, and campaigns like Valley Pink Patch can make all the difference.

More Than Just a Patch

The Valley Pink Patch campaign is a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together for a cause that matters. It’s more than just a pink patch on a uniform — it’s a symbol of hope, strength, and unity. As Zenovich wrapped up the event, she issued a challenge:

“Let’s blow last year’s total out of the water. Every dollar raised goes straight to patient care, and together, we can make a difference.”

With that, the community is off and running for another year of the Valley Pink Patch campaign. And if Tuesday’s event is any indication, they’re going to continue changing lives, one pink patch at a time.

Valley Pink Patch Campaign – Community Health System

Email: giving@communitymedical.org
Website: https://p2p.onecause.com/pinkpatch

Marjorie E. Radin Breast Care Center
Location: Clovis Community Medical Center
Phone: (559) 324-4444
Address: 2755 Herndon Ave., Clovis, CA 93611