NATCHEZ — In its second year, the movement to Paint Natchez Pink for breast cancer awareness will once again cover the city in a sea of pink Friday.

Kay Ketchings, marketing director with Merit Health Natchez, said that through cooperation with the Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce, sponsors and local businesses, pink signs, wreaths and T-shirts would be seen throughout the city Friday.

Ketchings said she is pleased with participation this year.

“This year 1,230 shirts and right at 90 businesses and organization are partnering. So, it’s definitely caught on,” Ketchings said.

To further raise recognition, Natchez Alderwoman Joyce Arceneaux-Mathis will present a Paint Natchez Pink Day proclamation at 10 a.m. Friday on the State Street-side steps of the Adams County Courthouse. A pink balloon launch will follow the presentation. Everyone is encouraged to wear their pink T-shirts, Ketchings said.

Ketchings said statistics show one in eight women would be diagnosed with breast cancer, making this event a potential lifesaver.

“It’s about breast cancer, early detection and bringing the community together; and if it reaches just one person it’s all worthwhile. It’s all about education. It was moving to see the community come together and see the sea of pink,” Ketchings said.

Sarah Carter-Smith got involved as a sponsor with United Mississippi Bank and as alderwoman for Ward 3.

“Hopefully it brings a cure for it one day. A lot of people in our area are affected by it for sure,” Carter-Smith said.

As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Merit Health Natchez will offer mammograms at special times for women who cannot get off work during business hours. The screenings will be offered 5-7:30 p.m. on Oct. 23 and 25. To schedule an appointment, call 601-443-2230.