Companies small and large in northern and central Wisconsin are taking on breast cancer $1 at a time. These businesses are selling pink ribbons throughout October to support breast cancer care and research at Marshfield Clinic.

The Pink Ribbon Promotion, part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, gives people the opportunity to tackle one of the deadliest cancers in the U.S. One out of eight women will develop breast cancer, and only lung cancer has higher death rates.

At participating businesses, customers who donate $1 receive a ribbon. They then write their names or the name of a loved one on the ribbon, which is displayed in the business.

One-hundred percent of the money raised supports Marshfield Clinic breast cancer initiatives such as the Catherine Fonti Angel Fund, which provides mammograms to patients who can’t afford them. Other programs, such as the WINGS (We Inspire, Nurture and Give Support) Cancer Survivorship program, research, mobile mammography and the Cancer Care Fund will receive support.

“Almost all of us know someone, whether it’s a family member or friend, who has been diagnosed with breast cancer,” said Teri Wilczek, Marshfield Clinic Chief Development Officer. “These pink ribbons give community members an opportunity to offer a small donation that will make a big difference in the lives of our neighbors.”

Businesses in northern and central Wisconsin which have multiple locations, like Associated Bank and Cost Cutters, are participating in the Pink Ribbon Promotion.

Barbers Family Hair, which has a location in Rhinelander, and Eagle River Country Club in Eagle River, are also participating.

These businesses will display Pink Ribbon Promotion fliers in their stores to let customers know the ribbons are available.

It’s not too late for more companies to get involved. Any business owners interested in the Pink Ribbon Promotion can contact Tiffany Halan, Marshfield Clinic Development Department, (715) 387-9189 or Halan.tiffany@marshfieldclinic.org.