Way to Go: Arielle Gelosi

A North Babylon teenager, inspired by her late mother's battle with breast cancer, is coordinating a walk on Oct. 26 in an effort to raise awareness about the disease.

Arielle Gelosi, a senior at North Babylon High School, credited her mother, Theresa Gelosi, who died in 2008.

"My mother was the strongest, most courageous woman I've ever met," said Gelosi, 17. "If my awareness and educational efforts cause just one woman to detect her cancer early, it will all be worthwhile."

The event at the high school is free and open to the public.

It has attracted more than 100 participants so far, and also will feature information booths for organizations such as the Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition and Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

In addition to coordinating the walk, Gelosi recently completed a breast cancer mosaic that shows a heart with an interlocking pink ribbon.

The glass tile mosaic, which measures 16-by-18 inches, is on display near the girl's locker room at the high school.

The Home Depot in Deer Park donated the materials.

Gelosi, a Girl Scout, said the walk is part of her effort to obtain her Gold Award. She also is a member of the National Honor Society.