Are You Tough Enough to Wear Pink?

Most likely, if you see a bumper stick sporting a bright pink ribbon, you recognize the symbolism. When the NFL dons pink uniforms, you know the cause. That's because a very wonderful thing has happened: breast cancer awareness has gone global.

But in this time of frequent exposure, where everything is so wonderfully pink, the color is still a little” dull.

The truth is that the battle for breast cancer is not won. Nowhere is this more evident than right here in Idaho. We consistently rank among the lowest in the country for breast cancer screening and early detection. The fight for women's health is very real and very much alive here in the Gem State.

One in eight American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer; but the good news? With early detection from self-exams and mammograms, it is highly treatable.

As providers on the frontlines fighting the disease, we also know just how powerful knowledge is. That's why EIRMC continues to embrace opportunities to raise awareness for this deadly disease.

On Friday, July 31 the War Bonnet Round-Up gets a pinked-out, blinged-out facelift at the Tough Enough to Wear Pink rodeo sponsored by EIRMC. Cowboys and cowgirls will sport hot pink hats, shirts, and even chaps. Cowboy clowns will don pink costumes, and we're hopeful the bulls will be in the spirit with hot pink hide (props to those brave painters!).

This year, EIRMC will have giveaways for rodeo attendees. Make sure you get there early for a free raffle and other fun educational opportunities. We want the entire audience to join in our Pink-Out to support breast cancer awareness. So wear your brightest pink with pride, but don't forget why. Breast cancer is tough; together, we are tougher!

The War Bonnet Roundup is the oldest rodeo in Idaho. A PRCA sanctioned event, they aim to bring the best rodeo talent and stock in to compete in a family friendly atmosphere. This year's rodeo will be held July 30, 31 and August 1, 2015.

Each night of the rodeo gates will open at 5:30pm with pre-rodeo events at 7pm with the main rodeo to follow at 8pm. Come early to get the best seats and enjoy the food and vendors at Sandy Downs.

Sandy Downs is located at 1860 E. 65th S. Idaho Falls, ID 83402. From I-15 take Exit 113 and turn East. Go 6 miles and rodeo grounds will be on your right.

For ticket information, visit www.warbonnetroundup.org.