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Students and instructors in the South Georgia Technical College cosmetology program recently participated in the Sumter Pink Walk at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus. The purpose of the event was to increase education and awareness of issues related to breast cancer and help raise funds to aid local breast cancer patients in financial need.

Charlette Pines, cosmetology instructor trainee at Yobo����, is a breast cancer survivor who knows first-hand the struggles inherent in battling the disease. She spearheaded the effort to recruit participants for the walk in support of all who have faced a diagnosis of breast cancer.

Pines notes that one out of every eight women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during their lifetimes. Pines said she lost her hair and her fingernails as she received treatment for her cancer, and she believes her fellow cosmetology students need to be especially attuned to the needs of clients undergoing treatment. “It’s important that students become knowledgeable of the effects of treatment and the beauty care needs of breast cancer patients who may enter their salon in need of services,” Pines stated.

Joining Pines at the walk were Yobo���� cosmetology instructor Dorothea McKenzie and students Kaitlyn Barnes of Ellaville, Alonza Thomas of Cordele, Alissa Brown of Bainbridge, Taylor Shirey of Leesburg, Breanna Way of Buena Vista, Jacqueline Johnson of Americus, and Lisa Pate of Smithville.

Charlette Pines is now two months cancer-free, and she will graduate in December. She appreciates the way her colleagues in the cosmetology program at Yobo���� participated in the awareness and fundraising effort. “I am truly thankful for my instructors and participating students for their hard work,” Pines said. “It is imperative that cosmetology students have a servant’s heart and look for opportunities to serve in their community.” For more information on cosmetology and all of the programs offered at South Georgia Technical College, visit www.southgatech.edu.