Commack Road Elementary School is once again turning pink this October, and this year’s campaign carries even more meaning. The school’s annual Power of Pink initiative, running from October 6 through October 17, marks its 10th anniversary of raising awareness and funds in the fight against breast cancer.

Fourth-grade teacher Cathy Nieves, who leads the campaign, has made Power of Pink a heartfelt mission rooted in both personal experience and community spirit. 

“I was diagnosed with breast cancer in October of 2014,” she shared. "Six months after my diagnosis, my sister lost her battle to breast cancer. I went through a double mastectomy, reconstruction, six months of chemotherapy, a hysterectomy, and seven years of chemo pills. As a former CRES student and Islip graduate, being back here as a teacher means everything.”

Throughout the two-week campaign, Nieves’ fourth graders have been running a daily table selling breast cancer awareness items for $2 and helping with morning announcements to keep the message front and center. The proceeds support the Jeanette Feminella Scholarship Fund, named for the beloved former principal who lost her battle to breast cancer in 2016, and the Islip Breast Cancer Coalition (IBCC). This nonprofit organization assists individuals and families affected by breast cancer.

“The Power of Pink was born through loss and hope,” said Nieves. “It has been my honor to spearhead this campaign to raise money in memory of Mrs. Feminella and for others in our community. Watching the students sell items with joy in their eyes is so rewarding - they’re excited to be helping people. The pink ribbons that line the entryway on Power of Pink Day are a beautiful memorial to both fighters and survivors.”

Staff and students proudly wore special 10th anniversary shirts on October 17. 

Nieves summed up the milestone best: “For the past 10 years, I have been humbled by the generosity of the students, staff, and families of this great community.”