Breast cancer is the second-most common cancer in the world, behind only skin cancers. The American Cancer Society states breast cancer is responsible for 30 percent of all new female cancers annually and 43,700 women are estimated to die from the disease this year. It is the second-leading cause of death in women, behind lung cancer.

To bring attention to these alarming facts and to present steps people can take to detect and fight against the disease, October is designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Locally, the McMinnville-Warren County Chamber of Commerce is partnering with 1810 Title & Escrow LLC, Raven Young Designs and Main Street McMinnville to raise awareness and funds on Thursday with a Paint the Town Pink event. 

On Oct. 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. the public is invited to visit the Chamber at 110 S. Court Sq. for photo opportunities and to enter for a chance to win a gift basket courtesy of 1810 Title & Escrow and Raven Young Designs. At 4 p.m. members of the public are asked to gather at the fountain downtown wearing pink for a group photo.

Following the photo, at 4:30 p.m. a breast cancer awareness fundraiser will be held by Kirby Group TN and First National Bank of Middle Tennessee at The Lot downtown.  Donations will be accepted and a silent auction will be held with proceeds going to the American Cancer Society.