The Millstone Times October 2018

HEALTH   WELLNESS Komen CSNJ Volunteer Melanie Gibson Shares Passion to be MORE THAN PINK By Megan Romanczuk &

Volunteers at Susan G. Komen Central and South Jersey (Komen CSNJ) play a vital role in our community, dedicating countless of hours and commitment to raise funds and aware- ness for breast cancer. Without the efforts of their passionate hearts, we would not be able to accomplish all we do. Today, we are shining our spotlight on Melanie Gibson, star volunteer for the fight against breast cancer. She helps manage LOLA’s in Manalapan, New Jersey, and began her journey with Komen CSNJ through this role. “LOLA’s styled the fashion show at the 2016 Pink Power Party at iPlay America with Komen CSNJ,” said Gibson. “This is where I fell in love with the mission along with the staff and other volunteers, and of course the survivors.” Since then, Melanie has continued volunteering for Komen CSNJ and enthusiastically lends a hand whenever she can. She has continued to model for the fashion show at the Pink Power Party each year, while helping with event publicity and promotion on social media. One of Melanie’s favorite volunteer memories has been working the 2017 Race for the Cure, where she used her sales skills and bubbly personality to help sell Komen CSNJ swag on event day with her co-worker Jeanine. Seeing the survivors and those living with metastatic breast cancer at the event “gleaming with hope” as they walked together in the survivor procession was an incredible moment for Melanie, one that still resonates with her. “It made me feel like no matter what happens in life there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, and although the path to get to it may be rough, the outcome is all worth the while,” said Melanie.

Being a Komen CSNJ volunteer has been an amazing experience for Melanie, allowing her to meet new people while helping those who’ve been through the most unimaginable struggle—breast cancer. “Volunteering for Komen CSNJ makes me feel like I am contributing as much as I can in the fight to end breast cancer,” said Melanie. “By volunteering, it makes me feel like we can all do a small part in trying to raise awareness and end this disease forever.” Melanie is looking forward to being part of the MORE THAN PINK Walk as a volunteer on Sunday, November 4 at Six Flags Great Adventure. You’ll see her big smile at the Komen CSNJ merchandise tent once again! She is looking forward to seeing the Komen CSNJ staff and event participants, while celebrating the “sea of survivors and their family surrounding them with love and support on a day that we honor them and fight for those who lost their battle to the disease.” For those interested in getting involved, Melanie wants you to know that your time, effort and dedication make a true difference. “At the end of the day after a long event, it feels amazing knowing that I could have possibly made a small impact on the fight to end breast cancer,” said Melanie. The Komen CSNJ team is thankful for Melanie’s incredible dedication and passion. Join Melanie and other volunteers at this year’s MORE THAN PINK Walk on Sunday, November 4 at Six Flags Great Adventure. Learn more: komencsnj.org/25years

60

The Millstone Times

October 2018