GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Sunday’s game against the New England Patriots marked the start of the 6th annual Packers Vs. Cancer campaign.
In the Packers Pro Shop, fans are able to buy hats and other gear to help fund the cause and raise awareness.
“Five dollars from the sale of every hat is going to go to cancer awareness, so we are really pleased about that,” says Packers President and CEO, Mark Murphy.
Murphy says the five dollars for each hat could have a large impact.
“Over 80,000 people here, a lot of people buying hats. That money goes a long way and really makes a difference.”
Cancer survivors were honored before Sunday’s game in front of the crowd, and appreciated the support.
“This is my victory lap, I made it through,” says survivor Mary Novotny.
After Novotny’s journey with cancer, she was excited to make it out on the field Sunday.
“About a year ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I had five months of chemotherapy at the cancer center, I had two surgeries, and then seven weeks of radiation.”
At the game fans are reminded the importance of early screening.
“Make sure that people are aware that they do that as regularly as possible; if they have signs that they might have cancer, get help and treatment as soon as possible,” says Murphy.
“For those people who have cancers that can be screened, it’s life changing, it’s life saving,” says Novotny.
Murphy feels that the players also love the opportunity to provide awareness out on the field.
“Sometimes you see different shoes and things that they are wearing, and trying to bring attention to what a big impact cancer has on so many people across the country.”
Novotny says the Packers cheering her along made a huge difference.
“I am honored to be able to be a part of this and be recognized by this, because across America there are thousands of people doing what I did.”
Packers fans are showed off their support by purchasing hats, and waving the rally towels.
The hats are available to purchase in the Pro Shop for the entire month of October.
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