By Robin Gibson

“This year, with Covid-19 it’s even more important to have the support of our Real Men. Our research is at risk..." — Community Development Manager Charlie Rowen

For the fifth year, 16 Charleston area men are helping the American Cancer Society fight breast cancer through participation in the Real Men Wear Pink campaign. October is breast cancer awareness month and Real Men Wear Pink candidates have been encouraging community members to take action in the fight against breast cancer.

“In addition to wearing pink, these men will be raising awareness and raising important funds to help the American Cancer Society,” said Charlie Rowen, Community Development Manager for the American Cancer Society. “This year, with Covid-19 it’s even more important to have the support of our Real Men. Our research is at risk and the funds raised help us save lives from breast cancer through early detection, prevention, and patient support." Candidates are competing for top fundraising honors.

Last year's winner, North Charleston Police Chief Reggie Burgess, says, “The North Charleston Police Department is proud to partner with the American Cancer Society and the Real Men Wear Pink campaign to raise funds for research and patient support services. We care about our community and we know how this disease affects lives because it has affected our own families. We are together in this fight!”

The campaign ends Monday, November 2nd. You have until then to support your favorite candidate by visitingrealmenwearpinkacs.org/charlestonsc.

2020 Real Men Wear Pink candidates:

Chief Luther Reynolds,City of Charleston Police Department

Chris Singleton,Charleston Riverdogs

Dr. Rick McEvoy, Charleston Pathology, PA

Donald Hovis,Tides Eye Photography

Deputy Chief Mark Arnold,Town of Mount Pleasant Police Department

Fred Applin,Charleston Southern University

Jamie Arnold,WMBF News

Kevin Francis,New Leaf Landscaping

Kyle Jamison,North Charleston Police Department

Myron Frieson,Pee Dee NPHC

Pete Mazzaroni,Marion County Healthcare Foundation

Rob Crawford,Renaissance South Construction Co.

Robert Decerbo,Palmetto Academy

Samuel Havelock,SOFX

Timothy James, Financial Fence

Tom Kutyla,United Community Bank

About breast cancer

According to the American Cancer Society Cancer Facts & Figures 2020, an estimated 279,100 people in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and an estimated 42,690 will die from the disease this year. In South Carolina, 4,790  women will be diagnosed this year, and 750 will die from the disease. This estimate may be low due to Covid-19. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, and it is the most common cancer diagnosed in women other than skin cancer.

About The American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of nearly 1.5 million volunteers dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer. From breakthrough research, to free lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 live helpline, free rides to treatment, and convening powerful activists to create awareness and impact, the American Cancer Society is attacking cancer from every angle. Visit cancer.org for more information.