Each October, as the nation turns its attention to breast cancer awareness, Mark D. Cooks laces up his cycling shoes and leads a movement that’s grown from a few riders into a rolling symbol of hope, unity, and health. The Pink Diamonds Bike Ride and Health Fair, now a major part of the Best Southwest community’s breast cancer awareness efforts, began with a simple invitation—and a life-changing realization.
From Civic Duty to Community Movement
About seven years ago, while serving as an elected official, Cooks was invited to speak at a local breast cancer awareness event organized by Linda Lydia, founder of the Pink Diamonds. “I came to give greetings from the city,” he recalls, “but I left deeply moved by the women I met and the impact of their stories.”…