Pirates from last year's event. Submitted photo.

SHEHERDSTOWN – The idea of an “identity crisis” is not so much a crisis in itself, but it can be a reality for those suffering with cancer.

The Breast Cancer Awareness-Cumberland Valley, Identity Crisis organization seeks to help those suffering from breast cancer-related identity crisis, and is hosting its 9th Annual Identity Crisis fundraiser, to raise funds for the organization, on Aug. 11.

“When you have cancer, it’s an identity crisis,” said BCA-CV Founder Sanders-Lowe. “You often lose your physical identity–your femininity–when your treatment causes you to lose your hair, your eyebrows, your breasts.”

This year, participants will “Escape to the Islands,” although Sanders-Lowe doesn’t stipulate what islands. Participants can dress as any island-related character during the event.

“The theme is not just about the Caribbean,” Sanders-Lowe said. “It’s any island, anywhere, whether it be real, from a movie or a book.” Examples could be pirates like Captain Hook, characters from “Mama Mia” or even from “Dora the Explorer.” In a recent Facebook feed, Sanders-Lowe asked people to share “characters from islands” in a thread, not explaining it was for the event. She received a variety of ideas, ranging from Treasure Island to the Island of Misfit Toys. The multitude of possible characters may help make the event different from traditional fundraisers.

Creating an event that is different helps bring the focus to the BAC-CV, a group offering support and assistance to cancer patients at no cost, serving the Eastern Panhandle counties of Jefferson, Morgan and Berkeley, and select counties in Pennsylvania and Maryland. The mission of BCA-CV is to educate people about the impact of breast cancer and ensure that no one faces breast cancer alone. For more information about this organization, visit www.bcacv.org.

This year’s Identity Crisis will once again begin with the VIP pre-party that will be held at Shepherd’s Cove, and after special treatment there, will create the traditional parade beginning at Town Hall and ending at the red carpet at Hecho en Mexico. Sanders-Lowe said that shuttles will run guests from the pre-party back to the Dance Party planned at Town Run Tap House. Those hoping to join in the pre-party can purchase tickets for $100, while those who wish to attend the Dance Party only pay $15 for a ticket. A variety of prizes different categories will be awarded at the Dance Party.

For those who may not wish to participate by dressing for the event, they can donate to BCA-CV online at www.identitycrisiswv.com, or patronize Hecho en Mexico, Mecklenburg Inn, Domestic and Devonshire Arms Cafe & Pub, which will offer happy hour from 5 to 8 p.m with a portion of sales going to the Identity Crisis cause.

Financial sponsors, food donations, volunteer staff and in-kind sponsorship including paparazzi, videography, printing, venue space, rentals, lighting, flowers and decor, all work together to make this annual event successful, according to Sanders-Lowe.

“Our goal is to raise $10,000,” Sanders-Lowe said, mentioning all proceeds go to Identity Crisis. “An event like this could cost up to $50,000 without the in-kind donations.”

For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit www.identitycrisis.com.