October is breast cancer awareness month, and an area hospital is showing its support for those who have battled the disease. Each October, employees with “Mercy Hospital Joplin” paint a giant pink ribbon on the hill in front of the property.

Breast cancer has touched the lives of many, whether through a family member or a friend. This October, as Breast Cancer Awareness Month begins, the Charleston community is uniting through various events and initiatives to support those affected by the disease.

To kick off the month on Tuesday, the hospital also hosted a ladies night for survivors and others affected by breast cancer.