Organizations host balloon launch for cause

Wednesday at noon Southern University students celebrated Breast Cancer Awareness month in front of the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union. The celebration consisted of a balloon launch as well as snacks and ribbons that were provided to students and faculty.
The event, sponsored by the Sophomore Class and Men’s Federation, received a numerous amount of support from students.
All month long, the Southern University community incorporates events to bring awareness to breast cancer.
Whether students have had personal experiences or just want to be apart of something meaningful, many students can find a reason to celebrate those who have survived breast cancer, remember those who have passed, and encourage women with useful information and helpful tips to stay healthy and recognize warning signs.
The sophomore class provided factual handouts and pamphlets encouraging women to learn information on self-examination, getting health screenings, and knowing your potential risks. Other handouts provided information on how to talk to others about breast cancer.
While no woman or man is exempt, spreading helpful information can help with prevention and the empowerment to fight back.
Chelsea Augustine junior nursing native of Baton Rouge stated her stance on Breast Cancer Awareness.
 “I’ve been an advocate for Breast Cancer awareness since tenth grade,” said Augstine.
 “My mom is a breast cancer survivor and it was tough seeing what she went through. It was pretty difficult but I realize how blessed I am,” Augstine continued, “Throughout each day this month I plan to wear some form of pink to show support because I’m surprised at how little some people know about it.”
The releasing of pink balloons Wednesday was a monumental way for the Southern University community to advocate awareness for the Baton Rouge community.
Stephan Loston, president of Men’s Federation, senior criminal justice major from New Iberia gave the reason for the event.
“Today the Men’s Federation is partnering with the sophomore class because we want to bring as much awareness as possible. As a result, we are simultaneously incorporating “Real Men Wear Pink”,” Loston said.
“As an organization on campus, we are geared toward creating events that serve to better the male population on campus,” Loston continued.
 Other supportive student males like Loston have sentimental values for spreading breast cancer awareness.
Michael Sensley freshman agriculture major native of Baton Rouge gave his reason for attending the Breast Cancer Awareness event.
“My grandmother passed of breast cancer before I got a chance to meet her,” said Sensley.
Having male support can be a dominating force to get the word out.
“It’s a topic for conversation and an issue that must be pushed on campus. Something as simple as wearing pink is very easy to do,” Sensley continued.
Sophomore Class President Chase Evans, a nursing major from Slidell, La. understands the importance of communication amongst students is beneficial for any cause.
“My job is to make sure that all the voices of the students are being heard. Today’s balloon release was intended to show that breast cancer could be relatable to anyone on campus,” said Evans.
Everyone is encouraged to take part in any upcoming breast cancer awareness events.