Delta’s annual “Breast Cancer One” employee survivor flight took to the sky late last week, opening the airline’s month-long campaign to support The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
And as memorable as the flight from New York to Mexico City was, it was truly just the beginning.
“Today is just our kick off – it’s the kick-off for a month-long focus on fundraising and education,” said Sandy Gordon, Vice President–In-Flight Service Field Operations.
As part of this year’s initiative, Delta also hosted its second “Unsung Hero” social media contest. The airline encouraged customers who are survivors or currently battling breast cancer to share the story of the person who has provided countless hours of support during their journey. As a result, five customers and their unsung heroes were chosen to attend this year’s flight.
“Being with the other survivors has been pretty inspirational and seeing everyone’s stories has been helpful to know that we’re not alone,” Michelle, a Delta customer, said of herself and her husband Michael.
Since 2005, Delta employees, customers and their friends and family members have raised more than $9.2 million for BCRF, including last year’s efforts of $1.3 million. The collective contributions have also funded the vital work of 37 different research projects over the years.
To further raise awareness and support for breast cancer research, Delta employees will wear pink uniforms and sell pink products, including pink lemonade and pink headsets, on board and in Delta Sky Clubs throughout the month of October. Proceeds from the airline's pink products will benefit BCRF.
-Catherine Sirna
