Derrick Dockery of the Washington Redskins speaks to the media about Breast Cancer Awareness on Capital hill in Washington D.C. on October 21, 2009. (Courtsey of Doug DeMark)

WASHINGTON, D.C – Cancer survivors teamed up with the NFL and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Tuesday for a breast cancer awareness event on Capitol Hill.

Coinciding with October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the NFL has implemented the Crucial Catch Campaign, in collaboration with the American Cancer Society, working to save lives from breast cancer by encouraging women to get their yearly mammograms starting at age 40.

The event was hosted by Representative Donna F. Edwards (D-MD), who in her first term has been a vocal champion of the cancer community and consistent supporter of legislation to improve public health. Rep. Edwards also represents the district that includes FedEx Field – home to the Washington Redskins.

Redskins guard Derrick Dockery and his wife Emma told of their connection to breast cancer. Derrick’s mother is a breast cancer survivor and Emma’s mother lost her fight with the disease. They were joined by Tanya Snyder, Crucial Catch spokesperson and wife of Redskins owner Daniel Snyder, who shared her personal story with breast cancer.

“Breast cancer affects one in eight American women and I was one of them last year,” Snyder said. “I am proud to work with the league and the Redskins to remind fans about the importance of annual screenings.”

Throughout October, NFL games are featuring players, coaches and referees wearing pink game apparel to raise awareness for the Crucial Catch campaign, as well as on-field pink ribbon stencils and special K-balls and pink coins. All special pink apparel worn at games by players and coaches as well as the balls and the coins will auctioned off at NFL Auctions, with proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society and team charities.

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