October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and locally family-owned Mexican restaurant Mesquite Fresh Street Mex is raising awareness by collecting donations to benefit the breast cancer nonprofit Susan G. Komen.
The family-owned Mesquite Fresh Street Mex was inspired by the strength and resilience of beloved employee Isabel Tolano, who herself is a survivor of breast cancer and a cherished team member.
Throughout the month of October, Mesquite Fresh Street Mex is donating a percentage of proceeds from burrito and merchandise sales to further Susan G. Komen’s life-saving cancer research and patient care. As of Oct. 9, the restaurant has raised $2,618.26 for the nonprofit through this initiative.
“Isabel’s strength is extraordinary, and witnessing her resilience during her health journey inspired this month-long fundraiser to uplift breast cancer survivors and their families,” said Ahmad Alatrash, co-founder of Mesquite Fresh Street Mex. “It is our hope that this contribution furthers Susan G. Komen’s life-saving cancer research and commitment to excellent patient care.”
Tolano’s journey began in 2018 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 35. She endured 18 weeks of chemotherapy, which led to loss of movement in her left arm, 48 days of daily radiation treatment and underwent a mastectomy. Now in remission, Tolano will be taking chemotherapy pills for the next decade.
“I am so thankful for not only the financial, but also emotional support that Mesquite has shown me over the past years. Being a first-generation immigrant from Mexico, I would not expect the type of help they have given to me. My goal now is to spread awareness to younger woman to get checked because early diagnosis is extremely important,” said Tolano.
Mesquite Fresh Street Mex will donate a percentage of proceeds from all burrito sales on the menu (including breakfast burritos, served until 11 a.m.) as well as their catalog of apparel merchandise. Burritos can be ordered online or enjoyed in-person at any one of Mesquite’s nine Valley locations. Merchandise is available for purchase in-person at select locations and via the restaurant’s online shop. Customers who wear Mesquite merchandise in-store can receive 10% off their order.
"We are thankful for Mesquite Fresh’s support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month," said Megan Klink, vice president of the west region for Komen. "Raising awareness and funds are crucial to our mission of eradicating breast cancer. This effort is a testament to the power of community and compassion."
For more information about Tolano’s story, Mesquite Fresh Street Mex’s full authentic, street food menu and all restaurant locations, visit eatmesquite.com.
