Founded in 2011 by Gregory Cantrell, Krewe de Pink specializes in lively, colorful events that support breast cancer research. After two of his aunts were diagnosed with breast cancer, Cantrell became impassioned about the cause. He created an active group that originally hosted events such as Breast Fest, as well as Krewe de Pink Prom, which invited guests to dress up in formal wear with plenty of pink accessories.
The organization continues this mission under current President Chris Costello, who first became involved with Krewe de Pink through his work. A devoted spokesperson for the organization’s mission and cause, Costello shared more about their current event lineup with Avenue.
Cancer Fundraising Events with a New Orleans Twist
Each Spring, the group’s Pink Bra Run encourages participants to run, walk, or bike a path along Old Gretna to benefit breast cancer research at Tulane Cancer Center. Costumes are expressly encouraged, and participants can expect to see runners, walkers, and even dogs decked out in pink getups. (There is also a Best Decorated Bra Contest.)
Recently, the team came up with an unusual idea: could they create a chocolate-themed event and tie it in with breast cancer? They titled the event Death by Chocolate . . . Not Breast Cancer and ran with it. Hosted at the iconic Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home each October, the event features sweet and savory chocolate desserts, champagne, and more treats. Guests are invited to get decked out in their best cocktail finery, and wigs are encouraged.
Supporting Serious Research
Krewe de Pink’s playful events help raise awareness and funds for specific types of breast cancer research. As a chemist, Costello is familiar with the research process and its potential limitations. For the most part, researchers receive funding for a specific project. Often, however, as their work is being conducted, they discover new things that deserve attention as well. With the way research dollars work, however, the studies must stay within the limits of the particular grant. Krewe de Pink helps provide funding to chase these other potential therapies that might otherwise not receive attention.
Many medical advances, such as penicillin, were discovered by accident, or through research on some other condition. “Our hope is that they will stumble across something even better than expected,” said Costello. He explained that all cancer research awareness and support is important, and the Krewe de Pink team fills a crucial niche in the research community.
As Costello also noted, he has attended many types of events for breast cancer, and he appreciates the different perspective that Krewe de Pink provides. “It is all about celebrating the survivors and life,” said Costello. “Even when some of our survivors do pass, it is about remembering their life. We take everything from the angle of New Orleans sensibilities into our events, with everybody dressed up and having a good time.”
Future Plans
Fifty years ago, many cases of breast cancer were incurable. With advances in medical technology, survival rates are much higher now, with early detection being a key. The Krewe de Pink team hopes to remove barriers for women getting mammograms to make their access easier.
One of their plans involves the creation of a mammogram bus to park in underserved communities. Ideally, women could drop by on a lunch break or any other convenient time to get checked. Although the team understands that mammograms are not necessarily fun, and they take time, catching cancer early enough can bring survival rates close to 100 percent.
Get Involved
Costello invites anyone interested in supporting breast cancer research to come to their events and enjoy the festive atmosphere. There are many ways to interact with the organization, including becoming a member or joining the board. (Many board members are also breast cancer survivors.) Donations are always welcome, and all funds raised from their events go directly to charity. Businesses and other organizations can help sponsor the events as well.
On a personal note, Costello added that no one in his family has passed away from breast cancer. But he is quick to welcome anyone to contribute to the cause, even if they do not have a direct personal connection to it. “Volunteering should be about doing good and having a good time doing it,” said Costello.
Krewe de Pink, krewedepink.org
