Supporting Breast Cancer Patients
“Unite for HER is a nonprofit organization,” said Sacchetti, who was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer nine years ago. “Their slogan is ‘By Your Side,’ and they provide support during the second journey of breast cancer that often goes unspoken. After receiving a diagnosis, your world is turned upside down, and you focus on recovery, whether it’s surgery, chemotherapy, or other treatments. Unite for HER steps in to support you during this challenging time, offering nutritional guidance and home visits from a nutritionist to help reduce exposure to cancer-causing chemicals.”
Last year, the event raised $12,500 for the organization, and this year they increased that amount significantly, donating $18,500 to Unite for HER in Paoli, PA.
A Community Walk for Hope
On the second day, survivors, supporters, and even some dogs gathered at the clubhouse for a 5K walk through the beautiful neighborhood. Participants were surrounded by signs honoring survivors, fighters, and those who are remembered, emphasizing that no one is alone in their fight.
“The enthusiasm and energy here are incredible,” Sacchetti remarked. “It speaks volumes about this community, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
Pickle in Pink: A New Addition
The event also introduced “Pickle in Pink!”—a pickleball tournament that offered a fun way for those who may not play golf to contribute and show their support.
Personal Stories and Reflections
Sacchetti shared that while she felt supported by her husband, who was diagnosed with cancer around the same time, not all women have that same level of encouragement. “It breaks my heart to think of those who lack supportive partners,” she said. “The human spirit is resilient, but without support, it can be hard to maintain hope.”
Reflecting on her own experience, she recalled the moment she told her husband about her diagnosis. “The look in his eyes was difficult to bear. But he took my hands and said, ‘We’re going to get through this,’” Sacchetti remembered.
Golf Tournament Kicks Off the Fundraising
The residents of The Peninsula are making a strong statement in pink for a cause close to their hearts. The second annual Peninsula Goes Pink took place on October 2-3, featuring a full-field golf tournament, a walk, and a pickleball tournament to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer patients.
The event kicked off with a 120-player golf tournament on October 2. Event chair Susan Sacchetti, a breast cancer survivor, made a notable change by allowing men to participate, which helped attract more players and ultimately raised more money for their chosen charity, Unite for HER.
The Importance of Early Screening
Recently, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force updated its guidelines, raising the recommended screening age for women from 35 to 40. However, Sacchetti believes women should consider starting earlier, citing advancements in screening technologies that involve less radiation exposure, such as certain ultrasound techniques.
For more information about the services offered by Unite for HER, visit uniteforher.org. Sacchetti noted that the nonprofit is already collaborating with local organizations, including ChristianaCare, Tunnell Cancer Center, and the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition.
