Twenty-six-year-old Jo Gromoske is passionate about finding a cure for breast cancer. Having survived a bout with it herself when she was 23 and grateful to now be cancer-free, she asked colleagues who work in the Newark Central School District Office to wear something pink on the four Wednesdays in October +National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
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In addition, she suggested participants made a $5 voluntary donation, if possible, each time they did “to support those fighting and surviving this terrible disease . . . and to those who have lost the fight.”
On October 25th, the fourth Wednesday, not only did some staff wear pink but also brought in “pink treats” to enjoy throughout the day.
Gromoske, Grants Clerk and Secretary for the District’s Innovative & Grants Services Department, said $150 was raised that will be sent to the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester.
“I am beyond grateful to have great co-workers, friends, and family to stand not only in my corner, but all those who have also dealt with and encountered this terrible disease. A strong support system is the biggest part of the fight we give along with a positive mind-set. Life during cancer is the hardest challenge an individual can live, but life after cancer feels even harder most days. Relapse is my biggest fear, and that of many others, not so much that we ourselves will have to go through it again, but put our loved ones through it. My family and new friends I have made along the way, is the reason I fight, but mostly because I will not allow myself to fall at the hands of cancer. My biggest goal and hope are to inspire everyone around me, that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Live life to the fullest and give all you can. Be in charge of your own destiny. But most importantly, your feelings matter. It is okay to not be okay. Never give up. I have won the battle. Now I am off to win the war.”