By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–The month of October resembles the changing colors of leaves, scary Halloween decorations and more importantly, it marks the beginning of the month-long awareness for breast cancer research.

To kick start the month of October and breast cancer awareness, Marco’s Pizza in Helena is hosting a two-day fundraiser that will include a representative from the North Central Alabama Susan G. Komen Foundation.

On Tuesday, Oct. 3, and Wednesday, Oct. 4, Marco’s Pizza will donate 10 percent of its total sales to the UAB Cancer Center in Birmingham and on Oct. 4, a local resource will be available to anyone that stops by the restaurant.

Between 6:30-8 p.m. on Oct. 4, Deanna Fowler with the Susan G. Komen Foundation will be set up at a table inside the restaurant where she will be available to answer questions and provide information about breast cancer awareness.

“She will be present to answer any questions about early detection and questions about the cancer center there and what the foundation has to offer,” Chris Stephens with Marco’s Pizza said. “She can discuss the newest research that’s going on, different aide programs and provide information surrounding proactive awareness and early detection.”

Breast Cancer hits close to home for Marco’s Pizza owner Mark Stephens, whose mother is a breast cancer survivor. Unfortunately, Mark’s cousin was also diagnosed with breast cancer and passed away at the age of 42.

“There’s a real personal factor in this for Mark,” Chris said. “The foundation here will have all different kinds of pamphlets and information. It’s just kind of a personal way for people to come in and get some information that’s close to home and we encourage them to come by.”

The event is free and any food purchased from the restaurant on Oct. 3-4 will help with breast cancer research and awareness.

Marco’s will also have a memory board set up for its staff members to help commemorate and come as a reminder to donate the money in their honor.

Marco’s Pizza is located at 4969 Shelby County 17 in Helena.