(By Trisha Benton for the Osmond Republican) LAUREL – Local businesses put their breast ideas forward to create bras for a cause. Now the support of the community is needed for an extra lift.
Security Bank stuffed a pennystudded brassiere with dollar bills under the theme of “Deposit Hope, Withdraw Cancer.” Two pink hard hats form a “Well Built” bra by Andy’s Electric, and a “Check Your Melons” watermelon-themed bra by Hometown Market are just a few of the bras that will be auctioned off as part of a fundraiser to support two area women going through breast cancer.
The bra auction, pulled pork dinner, music and silent auction are planned as part of the Bros & Bras event set for 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 15.
Funds are also being raised for all-inclusive equipment for the Laurel City Park.
“We wanted to combine two causes into one fun night,” said Nicole Dennis of Laurel, who is helping plan the fundraiser.
"Although we couldn't find a date in October to have the event (for Breast Cancer Awareness Month), we still wanted to bring awareness for breast cancer.
This will also be our first big fundraiser for the city park so we thought this would be a fun one to start with.”
People might remember the first Bros & Bras event 10 years ago as part of Laurel’s Q125.
This year’s event will feature the stories of two area women undergoing breast cancer treatment – Kaylen Tunink of Randolph and Julie Hart of Laurel.
Tunink is a mother of four, with children ranging in age from 4 to 18, and a business teacher and guidance counselor at Osmond High School. After she discovered a lump in her breast in August, she was diagnosed with triple negative stage 2 breast cancer, beginning her first round of chemotherapy later that month. Her regimen includes several months of chemo, followed by surgery next summer.
"This journey has tested me in ways I never expected, yet it has shown me God’s faithfulness in every step,” Tunink said. “My hope is that by sharing my story, I can bring awareness, offer encouragement, and remind others that even in the hardest seasons, His grace and love never fail. I give all glory to God, trusting that He is using this chapter for greater purpose.”
Dennis said Tunink’s situation hits close to home – a young mom with young kids, showing that cancer can strike anyone and anytime.
“We couldn’t imagine being in her shoes and want to make sure she knows we are praying for her and supporting her through her journey," she said.
Hart is a beloved former teacher at Laurel-Concord-Coleridge, having taught kindergarten for 38 years. Her cancer journey began more than a year ago after a routine 3D mammogram and followup biopsy confirmed breast cancer. A double mastectomy and two types of chemotherapy treatment followed.
“She’s touched many lives in those 38 years; the least we can do is honor her for a night,” Dennis said.
The Bros & Bras event also serves as the first fundraiser for funding an inclusive playground at the city park. Dennis said the new space will be for everyone of all ages and abilities. Not only will it promote accessibility for all but also social inclusion by breaking down barriers and fostering friendship.
"It reflects the community's commitment to diversity and equity, and it’s an . . . investment that will reduce the need for costly upgrades later,” she said.
More information and vision for the all-inclusive park will be shared at the Bros & Bras event. Tickets will be available at the door.
