The Margie Petersen Breast Center welcomed October with its cherished annual lighting ceremony—a radiant tribute to strength, hope, and sisterhood
On October 3rd, a vibrant crowd of “breasties” , or as Dr. Janie Grumley said, “Breast Friends,” gathered to honor women who have bravely faced breast cancer and those still courageously fighting. The evening was filled with love, laughter, and light, with over 100 attendees—including Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete and city council members—joining in solidarity. The event was beautifully catered by Erewhon, whose organic bites added a nourishing touch, and Oso Libre Winery, whose generous wine donation brought warmth to the celebration.
Dr. Janie Grumley, Director of the Margie Petersen Breast Center, opened the evening with heartfelt words: “We’re kicking the month off by lighting our beautiful hospital pink. It’s such a powerful symbol—not just of awareness, but of unity, hope, and the strength of our community. This year is especially exciting because we’re welcoming a brand-new partner, Erewhon, to this event. It feels only natural that our two organizations have come together in support of such an important cause. After all, we share the mission of enhancing the health and well-being of our community.”
Among the guests were sisters Jessica Millineaux and Christine Parra, who were both diagnosed with breast cancer within months of each other. Their journey led them to the Margie Petersen Breast Center, thanks to a recommendation from Mayor Lana Negrete—herself a breast cancer survivor.
“Tonight’s theme is friendships and silver linings—two things that have defined our cancer journey in ways we never expected,” shared Jessica Millineaux, her voice full of emotion.
Mayor Negrete also spoke, bringing her signature warmth and humor: “Providence is cutting-edge medicine wrapped in humanity. And since we’re talking about care… during my treatment, Erewhon became a lifeline. Friends knew how much I trusted their food—organic, carefully sourced, and healing. Whether it was juices, soups, smoothies, or meals from the hot bar when cooking wasn’t an option, I knew I could count on that nourishment and support.”
Erewhon is donating a portion of retail proceeds to Saint John’s breast cancer research and patient support.
The evening culminated in a joyful countdown led by Dr. Mina King, Chief Medical Officer at Providence Saint John’s, as the hospital lit up in a brilliant pink glow—casting a beacon of hope across Santa Monica.
Watch Moments of the Event
Janie Grumley, MD, Christine Parra, Jessica Millineaux, Lana Negrete, & Mina King, MD speak at this year’s Hospital Lighting event.
Breast Cancer Incidence & Survival
- New diagnoses: An estimated 316,950 women and 2,800 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2025.
- Non-invasive cases: About 59,080 cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive form, are expected.
- Survival rate: When detected early and localized, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.
- Deaths: Approximately 42,170 U.S. women are projected to die from breast cancer this year.
- Prevalence: Over 4 million breast cancer survivors currently live in the U.S.
Risk Factors & Genetics for Breast Cancer
- 1 in 8 women (13%) will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
- Most cases occur in women over 40 and often without a family history.
- Genetic mutations like BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB-2 significantly increase risk.
- Men account for less than 1% of cases but follow similar treatment protocols.
Detection & Symptoms
- Early signs include lumps, changes in breast shape or skin, nipple inversion, discharge, or persistent pain.
- Screening tools like 3D mammography and genetic risk assessments are improving early detection.
- Risk assessment scores (e.g., Tyrer-Cuzick model) help identify high-risk individuals.
Contact the Margie Petersen Breast Center for more information and assistance.
