WOODBURY — In June 2023, Nonnewaug science teacher Melissa Hodges’ life changed when she received a breast cancer diagnosis.

“All of September last year I was going to radiation treatment every day. The school really supported me making sure I could leave to get to my appointments on time,” says Hodges.

During this difficult time Hodges found an escape through crocheting. After receiving so much love from the school during her battle, she wanted to give back to the school. She decided to take the blankets to a higher level.

“Making the blankets was kind of my thank-you to the school,” said Hodges, “and then I loved the idea of raffling them during October Breast Cancer Awareness month.

The National Honor Society sold raffle tickets at the football game on Oct. 26. The blankets were raffled off the following week.

To bring more awareness to the cause, the National Honor Society wanted to make the football game a pink-out theme.

Nonnewaug senior Ellie McDonald feels that the pink-out game is an important way to spread awareness for breast cancer.

“I think that it is one of the biggest fundraisers we do the entire school year,” McDonald continues, “so I think that this really promotes both the school community getting together and all fighting for a cause.”

Liam Sandor, a senior at Nonnewaug agrees with McDonald that the pink-out is a good way to support an important cause involving the school.

“I think being part of the pink out, beyond school spirit just shows how we can come together and raise awareness for a great cause,” said Sandor. “I think it represents our community here at Nonnewaug but obviously I think the bigger message is to raise awareness for breast cancer.”

Junior Ella Quinn says supporting this brings the community together.

“I think the pink-out not only shows support for breast cancer but it also helps bring the school community together and everyone is showing support for all the teams,” says Quinn.