October 13, 2026 – Millikin University and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital will host the annual Real Men Wear Pink football game Saturday, October 17, as the Big Blue take on Illinois Wesleyan University.
Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. at Frank M. Lindsay Field. The event will promote breast cancer awareness, education and support for survivors.
Cancer survivors will receive free admission. HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital will also provide information about its women’s health and breast cancer services. A tailgate and informational tent sponsored by the hospital will open at 5 p.m. in the south end zone.
Lori Kerans, Millikin’s vice president for athletics and community engagement, said the event is personally meaningful to her as a two-time breast cancer survivor.
“Bringing this message to the football field gives us an opportunity to celebrate and support survivors, as well as encourage the women in our lives to make their health a priority,” Kerans said.
Valerie Jordan, manager of oncology services at St. Mary’s Hospital, said the partnership provides an opportunity to recognize survivors and share information about breast health resources.
Fans are encouraged to wear pink to the game. Accessible parking is available at the north stadium entrance off Eldorado Street.
The event is part of the 2026 Real Men Wear Pink campaign, a partnership involving HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital, Millikin University, Maverik Marketing and Central Illinois Multimedia Group.
For information about mammograms or to schedule a screening, visit hshs.org/mammogram.
