The Vicksburg Post is turning pink on Sunday, Oct. 9, in an effort to help raise awareness of the devastation caused to many lives because of breast cancer.

That edition of the newspaper will print on special pink newsprint and will be filled with stories that highlight the struggle of those who have fought breast cancer and survived, are battling the disease now and those who have lost a loved one to breast cancer.

“Breast cancer is a devastating disease, just like any other cancer,” said Tim Reeves, publisher of The Vicksburg Post. “Thankfully, with early detection it’s very treatable, and the fight against it is very winnable.”

The newspaper’s efforts are aimed at telling the community’s breast cancer stories, and urging readers to schedule doctor’s appointments, mammograms and take other steps that lead to early detection of the disease.

“That’s why we are so supportive of Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society. Breast cancer knows no prejudice. It strikes men and women, young and old,” Reeves said. “Everybody has a mama, an aunt, a sister — we all know someone who has battled breast cancer or is battling breast cancer. We have the opportunity to do something unique, and turning our paper pink for one edition is our special way of highlighting this devastating disease and the amazing people and great services and treatments available.”

Community members are urged to share their breast cancer stories — or the story of someone they know — with readers of The Vicksburg Post.

“We are asking our community to help write the edition, help tell the story of the fight against breast cancer in Vicksburg and Warren County. The newspaper is inviting those who have battled breast cancer, are fighting the disease, or those families and friends who have lost the fight to tell us their story,” Reeves said.

Stories should be no longer than 400 words and should be emailed to editor Jan Griffey by end of day on Wednesday, Oct. 5, at jan.griffey@vicksburgpost.com. The author should include a photo of himself or herself or the person whose story they are sharing.

Please call Griffey at 601-636-4545, ext. 123, if you have questions.