For LCM teacher Babs Foster, “Pink Out” isn’t just about dressing in pink from head to toe or showing extra spirit on game days. It’s more about recognizing the danger and seriousness of breast cancer and appreciating every day she has with her loved ones.

In June of 2014, Foster’s sister, Penny, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, which is a malignant tumor that starts in the cells of the breast.  This disease is also the second leading cause of death among women.

According to Foster, Penny’s treatment began immediately and the sudden diagnoses shocked her and the rest of her family.

“It was very surreal, like this couldn’t be true,” Foster said. “My sister is the health nut in my family. She exercises, eats right, never overindulges in anything…and, always goes for her annual mammogram.”

Foster said upon learning of her sister’s diagnosis, she and her family immediately began praying for Penny, as well as those that would be administering to her and her immediate family. Foster also did not hesitate to step in as a physical and emotional support system.

“I’m lucky that I live about 100 miles from my sister,” she said. “She was diagnosed in the summer when I was off of school. I feel very blessed that I was able to be with her for many appointments, haircuts, wig shopping, and sister time.”

Foster said her sister had wonderful family and a good support network of friends that were able to be with her through chemo treatments and appointments. She also created a “Penny’s Prayers Warriors” email bank and would send updates to family and friends on her status. Even though Foster was strong for her sister and those around her, there were still times when she had to put on a brave face.

“I was scared, unsure, and overwhelmed,” she said. “She was the first person in our immediate family to be diagnosed with cancer. We are a family of faith so I just knew in my heart she was going to be fine….I had to put faith in God’s healing.”

Now Penny is cancer-free, but continues to do a treatment once every three weeks until November as a preventative measure.

To support the fight against breast cancer, Foster and her sister have participated in two of the Julie Rogers Gift of Life Color Runs and also had a team at the South Liberty County Relay for Life. They plan to continue participating in these events in the future and Foster is a big advocate for “Pink Out” festivities throughout the month of October.

“It’s a special time for everyone to bring awareness to breast cancer, have fun, wear pink and push for all women over 40 and over to receive annual mammograms,” Foster said. “I want everyone wearing pink for this cause to remember what it’s for. Early detection is key.”

According to Penny, she supported Breast Cancer Awareness before she was diagnosed but now it has taken on a different meaning.

“If it wasn’t for the research I wouldn’t be on the preventative maintenance drug and my outcome could’ve been much more different,” she said. “I’m thankful for each day and for the many prayers continuing to lift me up. I’m not fighting this alone. I’m blessed to have such a great family and a wonderful sister that’s also my best friend.”