By Haylee Hogan
WCHS student journalist
On Friday, Oct.16, 2026, in downtown Versailles, the community came together to support breast cancer awareness at the third annual “Light Up Woodford County,” which aims to turn all of downtown pink, with most everyone wearing something pink.
The event offered educational booths, temporary tattoos and face paint for kids, live music and the breast cancer “Honor Walk” to the courthouse, where the annual group photograph is taken, which ran in the Oct. 22 edition of The Woodford Sun. Light Up Woodford County is held in October because it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The event brought breast cancer survivors, fighters and families together to show support and let it be known that no one fights alone.
Hosted by the Pink Sisters of Versailles, the community was able to walk around and learn about breast cancer and how to spot signs for early detection, which can be critical to a successful battle with the disease.
Chrissy Brooks was the guest speaker this year. She shared her breast cancer journey story, and how important it is to not put off your screening exams.
“The most important piece of advice I can give you is to get your yearly mammogram and do self-checks,” she said.
Pink Sisters was co-founded by sisters Amy Thomas Iwahara and Catherine Anderson. Catherine said, “My daughter Peyton Whitaker deserves most of the credit. It all started with her idea to create banners honoring breast cancer along Main and Lexington streets and those we have lost.”
Pink Sisters started as a small way to show support to community members, and has since grown into a non-profit organization that hosts monthly meetings for those affected by breast cancer.
Catherine explained in an email what she hopes the community will take away from this impactful event: “My hope is that this event not only raises awareness about breast cancer, but also reminds those facing the diagnosis that they are never alone.”
At the Honor Walk this year, the community really showed up to support and honor one another. The courthouse steps were filled for the photo at the end, and you could see the event’s impact. Once the large crowd dispersed, the survivors took another photo together. Amy said the photographs are her favorite part of the event. “After the group photo, we ask the survivors to stay for a survivor photo. These are the real heroes and warriors who make Pink Sisters,” she said.
Catherine was very open about her diagnosis and journey, saying, “I found my lump about a month before my 36th birthday and thought I would just mention it at my upcoming annual physical. Shortly after turning 36, I was diagnosed with triple-positive breast cancer. I never imagined I would be facing breast cancer at that age. That’s why I can’t stress enough the importance of self-awareness, paying attention to changes, and speaking up when something doesn’t seem right. Don’t assume you’re too young. Early detection can save lives!”
Cancer is incredibly scary. It doesn’t matter the time, place or person.
“I wish everyone knew that preventive care truly saves lives, and lean on your support system,” Amy stressed. “We are here for anyone and everyone in our community; no one has to fight alone.”
Pink Sisters is offering free mammograms on Dec. 7, 2026, in Woodford County. You can register for a mammogram appointment on their Facebook page: Pink Sisters – Versailles, KY.
Editor’s Note: This story is the product of the school system’s “Portrait of a Learner” partnership between the Sun and WCHS teacher Renee Boss’ journalism class, in which the Sun works with students to write and publish news stories.