The women’s soccer team took pledges from women to get their annual mammogram in order on Oct. 15, and 16, to promote the dangers of breast cancer in the event We’re Gonna Win from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The mother of one of Coach Tanaka’s former players, Shelley Smith, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and has become the inspiration behind “Rio Hondo’s Women’s Soccer Cancer Initiative.”

Shelley Smith, an Emmy Award winning journalist and reporter, inspired Tanaka along with other women to keep moving forward despite whatever may come their way.

Smith however, is not the only friend they have stood beside during their fight against breast cancer.

Their assistant coach, Amanda Krukow was also diagnosed and a blood drive was done in her honor.

Both of these women and many others serve as reminders that breast cancer can affect anyone and motivated our women soccer to take the initiative and promote early detection.

Miranda Flores, the women’s soccer team captain wanted everyone to know, “early detection is key.”

According to the American Cancer Society, “Breast cancers that are found because they are causing symptoms tend to be larger and are more likely to have already spread beyond the breast.”

All the more reason for women to get their mammogram in a timely manner, the earlier breast cancer is detected the better chances of survival.

Even though Smith is not a large part of the association the team has rallied with her and started this initiative as a sign of solidarity.

A camera was available to any students who wanted to show Smith support through a video card.