For a group of women just outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, breakaway roping is providing hope in the face of one of life’s most daunting challenge–a cancer diagnosis.
Friends Beth Papotnik, Brian Ralicki, and Amy and John Lucsko recently started the nonprofit Breakaway From Cancer 2022 as a beacon of support for those battling cancer in the equine industry. Their inspiration was personal–Amy’s niece-in-law and beloved friend of Beth’s was diagnosed with advanced-stage breast cancer at 31 years old. As she continues to share her journey with Papotnik, Ralicki, and the Lucskos, this young woman refuses to give up on her passion: breakaway roping. Her cowgirl spirit has led her to draw strength from the purpose that comes with pursuing a passion and her friends have witnessed how beneficial this pursuit and the support of a tight-knit rodeo community can be.
A little less than a week ago, a benefit breakaway and barrel race day was held in honor and support of this young woman. While the community rallies around her, Beth Papotnik and Amy Lucsko are gathering stories from other individuals battling cancer and working to build up a fund of financial support to provide to one recipient each year. Both women grew up in horse families and understand the nuances of love for a four-legged animal as well as the mental strategy that rodeo and riding draw upon. To help others stay rooted in hope during their diagnosis and beyond, they plan to share positive thinking strategies and encouraging tips to try and keep people out of depression and despair. The nonprofit’s Facebook page will be a hub for these messages and a place to help connect individuals who just need to talk to someone.
The equine industry has long been noted for its focus on fellowship and unity across geographic boundaries and their nonprofit is quickly becoming a testament to that. Papotnik and Lucsko know the deep pride people in the industry have and the need to not feel like a charity case–instead, Breakaway From Cancer is focused on empowering people with the tools they need for their battle and the encouragement to use their passion as a spiritual outlet.
Sadly, most people know someone who has struggled with cancer or is currently facing a diagnosis. If you know an individual who you think could benefit from extra support or would be willing to share their story to encourage others, reach out to Beth Papotnik and Amy Lucsko through the Breakaway From Cancer website.
