Ames True Value Supply in Wiscasset and its customers have been covering a wall with pink ribbons of support and donating to the American Cancer Society as a longtime member of the store’s staff fights breast cancer. The business is organizing Team Marie to walk this Sunday, Oct. 23 in the ACS’ “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” event in Damariscotta, employee Rebecca Akeley said.

“That is a wall of love,” co-worker Peg Averill said Monday afternoon as she looked up at the rows and rows of paper pink ribbons above the entryway and spreading out on either side. “It’s been an overwhelming response. The generosity of people is amazing,” she said.

The fundraising effort began Wednesday, Oct. 12, Averill said. By the business’ closing time Monday, a total of $2,174 had already been raised. It will all go to the ACS via Team Marie, Akeley said.

Staff members said Marie Pierce has worked there nearly 12 years and is continuing to work one day a week while she undergoes treatment following her diagnosis.

The walk starts at 2 p.m. at The First at 223 Main Street. To donate to Team Marie, stop by the store on Route One or visit main.acsevents.org. “Marie’s a friend and co-worker, and this is to show the support for her,” Akeley said.

Some of the ribbons on the wall carry handwritten messages. “Fight like a girl,” one reads. “Keep on keeping on,” reads another.

An Oct. 13, Ames True Value Supply Facebook post about the fundraising effort thanks everyone who donated so far, and thanks The Copy Shop for donating the paper ribbons. It also speaks about Pierce.

“As a native of the area, she knows almost everyone, if you are new to the store she will make you feel like one of our regulars in no time. She is one of the many reasons we are so committed to the fight against cancer,” the post reads. “We consider ourselves all family here at Ames Supply and are truly inspired by her courage and determination.”

Through Akeley on Saturday, Pierce, of Phippsburg, said she was overwhelmed with all the love and support.

The staff has heard from customers who would like to join Team Marie on Sunday’s walk. They are welcome to and should contact the store, Averill said. The number is 882-7710.