Swim, walk, run or cheer, all in support of cancer prevention through education, advocacy, public policy and research. The Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) has invited students from all over the state, including Brookline, to participate in two annual Against the Tide events.
Against the Tide is a family-friendly swim, walk or run event in support of cancer prevention. The event is hosted in Hopkinton and Brewster by the MBCC. Donations benefit the organization’s community education and student environmental health program regarding cancer prevention. Students from the high school plan to volunteer at Against the Tide in Hopkinton on June 20, 2026.
Sophomores and club founders of Brookline for a Cure Mia Bjorbaek and Aanya Raillard discovered MBCC’s need for student volunteers at Against the Tide while researching various local cancer-related organizations that their cancer awareness and prevention club could support. Bjorbaek said MBCC was open to them joining their team and assisting at Against the Tide.
“We sought out organizations willing to partner with us but, given our age, finding those opportunities were challenging,” Bjorbaek said. “Then we came across the MBCC and immediately emailed them asking if there was any way they would let us become part of their team. It wasn’t long until we heard back and were told about the different ways we could assist, one of them being the Against the Tide event.”
Bjorbaek and Raillard frequently have online meetings before school with MBCC’s Executive Director, Cheryl Osimo, to discuss their progress and next steps in preparation for Against the Tide. Raillard said she appreciates all the support from the team, which they have not experienced with other organizations.
“Everyone on the team is really supportive. It’s a small organization, but the team is always reaching out. They’re very welcoming and they keep us on track, which I really like because with other organizations we’ve worked with, there’s not as much guidance,” Raillard said.
Osimo, who lives with breast cancer herself and has advocated for breast cancer prevention for over 30 years, has enjoyed working with the students for the past few months. She said she is touched by the dedication and drive from Raillard and Bjorbaek, and hopes others will be motivated by them.
“Their initiative and willingness to give their time to help others is truly inspiring. I hope people of all ages will be moved by their caring spirit and leadership and feel encouraged to support this important cause,” Osimo said. “Their commitment gives hope for a healthier future for generations to come.”
Their hard work with the organization led them to be named as two High School Chairwomen of MBCC’s Against the Tide, which Raillard said comes with significant work but provides a clear mission for her and her club.
“I wasn’t really expecting it, but it’s kept us busy and brought our club something to focus on, which is great,” Raillard said. “It’s keeping us on our toes, and I love that we have something to work towards.”
Finding out they were named High School Chairwomen was an eye-opening experience for Bjorbaek because she felt better about the impact she could make and learned a lot about what goes on behind the scenes for events.
“Hearing this, I felt as though I had a real chance of spreading awareness and making change. Additionally, working with others at the coalition has taught and shown me what goes on behind the scenes while creating events such as Against the Tide,” Bjorbaek said. “So many different variables go into the creation of these types of fundraising events, and it is amazing to see everything slowly form together.”
Before she came to the high school or joined MBCC, Bjorbaek said she wanted to be more involved in her community. She said working with the MBCC has given her the opportunity to do so and has been a gratifying experience overall.
“Collaborating with the MBCC means so much more to me than a volunteer position; it has shown me that I can be a part of something larger than myself and make a significant impact,” Bjorbaek said. “Creating this club and joining forces with MBCC has given me this exact opportunity and immense fulfillment.”
While Bjorbaek and Raillard will only volunteer at the in-person event in Hopkinton, Against the Tide will also occur in-person at Brewster on June 27 and virtually throughout the week. Osimo said she looks forward to the support of all participants, no matter how they contribute.
“I’m excited to see the incredible energy that participants bring to the 2026 Against the Tide events,” Osimo said. “Each year, this event reminds us how powerful our community can be when we come together for prevention. Whether you join us in Hopkinton, on Cape Cod or virtually, please know that your participation truly makes an impact.”
