Across all its sites, the hospital embraced the color pink for this campaign aimed at breaking taboos and supporting women affected by the disease. Various activities were organized, notably in Poitiers, featuring photographic exhibitions, walks, and workshops.
In Poitiers, two exhibitions drew attention: "Les Krâneuses qui Tétonnent" at the Jean-Bernard building, showcasing portraits of women affected by breast cancer, and "Histoires de résilience" at the Regional Oncology Center (PRC), featuring portraits and testimonials from patients. Two pink walks, organized with the association Santé Vous Bien 86, also took place, followed by workshops on screening and women's health. The CHU's senology unit was present to provide information on mammography.
An immersive wall and a wellness bubble were set up in the Jean-Bernard building on October 20th and 21st, offering testimonials and self-examination workshops. The gynecology department also hosted a workshop on October 18th at the Poitiers tennis stadium.
The Regional Oncology Center (PRC) adopted the theme of the "century of lights" for its decorations, in collaboration with the information and meeting space. On October 15th, an awareness day was held with the Ligue contre le cancer de la Vienne (League Against Cancer of Vienne), including information booths on cancer support care and prevention, as well as a sale of Pink October merchandise to benefit the CHU's Aliénor fund. The association Reconstruction Sein Infos held a session, followed by an information meeting on breast reconstruction led by Dr. Vincent Huguier and Ms. Françoise Pimor.
In Montmorillon, the traditional pink walk attracted 250 participants on October 10th, featuring a flash mob and a festive atmosphere. On October 16th, film-debates were held in Chauvigny and at the Le Majestic cinema in Montmorillon, with the participation of healthcare professionals such as Dr. Claudia Beganu and Dr. Roula Amine Nehneh. The Montmorillon hospital site also expanded its mammography slots for women with limited access to care.
In Châtellerault, maternity ward midwives led self-examination workshops and hosted an information booth on October 2nd and 12th.
The commitment extended beyond the CHU's walls. Students from the Lycée du Dolmen in Poitiers crafted heart-shaped cushions and belt protectors. Numerous partners, including Les Roses Poitevines, Happytal, Rannou Métivier, construction companies from the FH4 hotel project at Futuroscope, Zélie Fleurie, CESVI, and the town hall of Villiers, also contributed to the Aliénor fund through various initiatives.
This 2026 edition of Pink October highlighted the importance of collective action against breast cancer. The Poitiers University Hospital reaffirms its commitment to women's health and early screening, recommended every two years for women aged 50 to 74.
