Yuma High organizations raise funds for American Cancer Society

Yuma High School's Doan Field, ordinarily covered in traditional blue and white jerseys, took on a hue of pink Friday night as everyone came together to wage battle against breast cancer.

A lot more was at stake than the game as the Criminals took on the San Luis Sidewinders. To help increase awareness for the growing rate of breast cancer, everyone from the football team to the cheer squad and fans wore a dab of pink. It was officially known as the "cheer for the cause" to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research said Leah Ramstad, cheer squad coach.

The cheer squad decorated the stands with pink ribbons and bracelets. And along with a silent auction handled by the art club, the Crims hoped to raise $2,000 to donate to the American Cancer Society in the race for a cure.

Ramstad said she and the cheerleaders love being involved with community service. Both Yuma and San Luis High Schools have staff who are struggling with the disease, she said.

"Even though on the field we're rivals yet despite the fact we're opponents, we can come together over this cause," Ramstad said. "So we ask everyone here to think pink for the future."

Cheer squad member Brianna Garcia said they "pinked out" the stands with yards of ribbon to show everyone they support the American Cancer Society's focus on breast cancer awareness.

"Sooner or later everybody will know somebody who has breast cancer," said Shannon Mitchell, art club adviser. "So it's important to stand behind them and show others support."

In addition to the bracelets the art club received numerous items, mostly gift baskets and gift cards to auction from donors such as Starbucks, Super Cuts, Lotus Day and Tropix Spas, Dillards, Twigs, Skin Pin Tattoo and other local businesses.

"I'm really hoping it pays off and we make a lot of money so it can make a difference," said Gabriela Reyna, 17, art club member.

Yet it was Alma Gomez, art club president, who seemed to have given it all for the cause by donating two original acrylic paintings, one aptly titled "Think Pink." Alma said she thought the auction was great.

"There's actually a teacher here, Ms. Wiencek who is fighting breast cancer. I think it's amazing she's going though all that but she's still able to teach and yet she seems happy."