Breast Cancer Awareness Month is energizing Las Cruces this October with a series of community‑focused events, beginning with the Cancer Warriors Zumbathon on Saturday, Oct. 3. Hosted at the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum, the ’80s‑themed Zumba fundraiser was organized by local activist Araseli Granillo, who gathered Zumba instructors and participants to dance, exercise, and support the Cancer Warriors of Las Cruces.

Event highlights and purpose

The Zumbathon combined high‑energy fitness with a charitable mission. Attendees paid a modest entry fee, with all proceeds directed to Cancer Warriors, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting breast cancer patients and their families. Organizers emphasized that the variety of events throughout the month provides multiple ways for residents to get involved, whether by attending, donating, or simply showing support for those affected by cancer.

Full schedule of October activities

Following the Zumbathon, the month’s lineup includes:

• Candles for Hope – Oct. 6 at Memorial Medical Center, a candle‑lighting ceremony honoring survivors.
• Bingo for Boobs – Oct. 7 at The Game Sports Bar & Grill, a fun bingo night raising additional funds.
• Power of Pink ’80s Party – Oct. 8 back at the Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum, featuring retro music and pink‑themed décor.
• Cancer Warriors 5K & 1K Walk – Oct. 10 at Burrell College of Health Sciences, offering a walk/run option for all fitness levels.

Each event is designed to foster community spirit, provide opportunities for survivors and their families to connect, and generate vital resources for ongoing cancer support services.

Community response

Local residents expressed enthusiasm for the month‑long effort. “It’s wonderful to see our town rally around such an important cause,” said longtime Las Cruces volunteer Maria Torres. “The Zumbathon was a fun way to get active and support our neighbors battling cancer.” Organizers reported a strong turnout at the Zumbathon, noting that the upbeat atmosphere helped raise both morale and donations.

How to get involved

Anyone interested in participating can find more details on the Cancer Warriors Facebook page, which lists event times, locations, and donation options. Volunteers are also welcome to assist with set‑up, registration, and post‑event clean‑up for any of the scheduled activities.

By uniting fitness, fun, and philanthropy, Las Cruces is demonstrating the power of community action in the fight against breast cancer.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.