The decision to move the Paper Doll Parade and Breast Cancer Awareness 5K to this Saturday, Oct. 19, because of the impact of Hurricane Helene last month has created a weekend long focus on breast cancer awareness in Rome and Floyd County.

Atrium Health Floyd held its annual Pink Day celebration today, which is National Mammography Day, to stress the importance of getting an annual mammogram. Truett’s Chick-fil-A in Rome was humming with visitors before sunrise this morning.

Visitors received complimentary Paper Doll magnets and information about breast health

Carmen Jones, retired Pepperell Primary School principal, was there before sunrise along with many current teachers and other staff members from the school, which is usually well-represented each year.

“Breast cancer has impacted so many members of the Pepperell community,” Jones said. “Awareness is so important, and the Breast Center at Atrium Health Floyd is such an important resource for our community.”

The Paper Doll Parade and Breast Cancer Awareness 5K, sponsored by Atrium Health Floyd, Harbin Clinic, Floyd Healthcare Foundation and Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation, was originally scheduled for Sept. 28.

Heavy rain produced by Hurricane Helene turned Ridge Ferry Park into a quagmire, so the even was moved to this Saturday. The costume contest will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the 5K at 5:15 p.m. and the 2-mile Paper Doll Parade health walk at 5:30 p.m.

In-person race day registration will be $40 for the 5K and $30 for the walk.

Atrium Health Floyd’s iconic dolls – symbols of breast health, breast education and the belief that knowledge is power – will be on display in fashionable running apparel around the park.