Hundreds of people filled Town Square Park for the 12th annual Pink Monday Celebration, a Hattiesburg tradition dedicated to raising awareness for breast cancer and honoring survivors. The park was decorated in every shade of pink as families, survivors and supporters gathered to celebrate life, resilience and hope.
The event, held each October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, featured live entertainment, food vendors, health resources and educational booths designed to inform attendees about the importance of early detection and regular screenings. Music, laughter and shared stories filled the air as participants united for a cause that has touched countless lives.
Founder Regertha Jenkins, a two-time breast cancer survivor, started Pink Monday more than a decade ago after her own battle with the disease. Her goal was to create a safe, supportive space for survivors and their families to come together and celebrate their strength while also educating others.
“I’m a two-time, 38-year breast cancer survivor—praise the Lord—and I just want to give back,” Jenkins said. “I want cancer survivors to know that cancer isn’t a death sentence. Early detection is the cure.”
Jenkins said she’s proud to see how the event has grown over the years. What began as a small local gathering has become one of Hattiesburg’s most anticipated community events each fall. For her, Pink Monday represents much more than just awareness—it’s about empowerment and community healing.
“It makes me feel good that the message is out there so people can see this information,” Jenkins said. “Us women, we don’t always take care of ourselves. We put ourselves on the back burner. So now, we’re going to get up and take care of us.”
For attendees, the day served as both a celebration and a moment of reflection. Pink Monday gave survivors a chance to connect with others who understand their journey, while giving families and friends the opportunity to show their support. Visitors said they felt a sense of belonging, love and encouragement, even amid the challenges breast cancer can bring.
One of those attendees was Lillie Bowie, who has faced breast cancer twice. She was cancer-free for 41 years before being diagnosed again this past July. Now, she’s celebrating a second victory over the disease.
“It makes me not feel alone to see everyone out here in pink,” Bowie said. “I’ve been through a lot, but I’m enjoying this.”
Throughout the afternoon, attendees could be seen dancing to local performers, browsing informational tables and sharing personal stories of loss and triumph. Health organizations also provided wellness resources and information about local support groups.
Jenkins said she hopes that Pink Monday continues to inspire people to take action—by scheduling mammograms, learning about risk factors and supporting loved ones who are battling cancer.
“This event is about awareness, yes,” she said, “but it’s also about faith, survival and community. When we come together in pink, we’re not just remembering those we’ve lost—we’re celebrating the ones who are still here.”
As the sun set over Town Square Park, the atmosphere remained filled with gratitude and hope. Survivors hugged, friends posed for photos and families shared stories that will carry through to next year’s celebration.
For Jenkins and many others, Pink Monday is more than a yearly event—it’s a reminder that breast cancer doesn’t define a person’s life, but their courage does.
