It’s a disease that doesn’t care how old you are, how much money you have in the bank or what color your skin is.

Half of all men and one-third of all women in the United States will develop cancer during their lifetimes.

Today, millions of people are living with cancer or have had cancer.

The Islands’ Sounder is paying tribute to local survivors of breast cancer in October, which is breast cancer awareness month. In the Oct. 17 issue, we will feature stories of island women who have fought the disease and won. Plus, our entire edition will be printed on pink paper.

We are seeking sponsors for the section and will donate 10 percent of the proceeds to local mercy flights for cancer patients.

The flights are administered through the Orcas Aviation Association and a handful of pilots participate. They make around 60 flights a year for islanders undergoing cancer treatments or who have a injury that is not life threatening. The pilots donate their time, but the Mercy Flight program reimburses them for their fuel. We think this is an incredibly worthy cause to support and are proud to be giving what we can to help our neighbors in need.