The Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre are set to host a series of events starting today to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Throughout the course of the month, the Centre are hoping to raise $250,000 for its charitable outreach initiatives such as its equal access fund which provides financial support for uninsured and underinsured men and women to receive recommended cancer screenings.

At noon today, the Centre will hold an opening ceremony at their Point Finger Road offices with an official proclamation by Health Minister Jeanne Atherden.

On Friday schools and organisations across the Island will take part in the “Wear it PINK” Denim Day to raise both funds and awareness of breast cancer.

Events continue next week with Gorhams hosting the THINK PINK Ladies Night Out on October 8, offering ladies-only late-night shopping between 6.30pm and 10pm. Shoppers must pay a $10 entrance fee — which will go directly to the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre — and receive a 20 percent store-wide discount.

On October 17, Christ Church Warwick will host a fundraising fish fry between 4.30pm and 8.30pm, and the BF&M Breast Cancer Awareness Walk will be held on October 22, starting at Barr’s Bay Park at 6pm. The event will be proceeded by a health fair at the park.

The North Village Community Club will be getting into the spirit again this year, wearing pink all month to promote education and early detection, while City Hall will be hosting a display entitled “The Faces of Breast Cancer”.

Executive Director of Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre Tara Soares said: “Since its inception 18 years ago, we have seen the community rally behind this important cause.

“Breast cancer has impacted many lives in Bermuda, directly or indirectly, and we appreciate the community support as we continue our fight against this disease.”

Clinical breast exams are recommended every three years for women in their 20s and 30s and every year for women aged 40 and over. Regular self-checks are also recommended so women can familiarise themselves with what is normal and to promptly report changes to their healthcare provider.

For information about free breast cancer screenings, call 236-1001.