While for many people, October marks the beginning of Fall and time to start preparing for Halloween, for those who have known the struggles of dealing with breast cancer, whether personally or through family or friends, the month holds a completely different sort of significance.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month marks a time during the year dedicated not only to raising support for those currently fighting cancer, but to promote breast cancer education and prevention for all women.
Below are just some of the many measures you can take to show your support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Educate Yourself
There are so many great, even fun ways to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month. However, it’s important to remember that breast cancer is a serious medical issue, and making an extra effort to sport pink in your wardrobe is rather meaningless if you don’t understand the severe impact cancer has on millions of people’s lives. Take some time to educate yourself on the matter, whether that means attending a live talk by a breast cancer survivor, connecting with a family or friend who has breast cancer to better understand what they are going through, or simply doing your research online. There is so much more to breast cancer than pink ribbons. So remember, “think before you pink”.
Participate in a Fundraising Walk
One of the most popular and community-driven ways to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month is by participating in one of the many fundraising walks held throughout the country, as well as internationally. From your typical 5k, to themed “moonwalks” that take place at night, these events are perfect for supporting a good cause as well as getting the opportunity to meet and connect with many of the very women you are supporting.
Have a Pink Out
At work, at school, or maybe on a night out with your friends, planning a day when everyone dresses up in pink is a fun and easy way to acknowledge Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Some people are even dedicated to wearing pink every single day in October in honor of the cause. It can be a great conversation starter for educating others and spreading awareness.
Donate Your Locks
Losing hair is only one of the many struggles women will face while battling breast cancer. And while, for those who have not experienced it, loss of hair may seem like one of the lesser symptoms that come with cancer, the toll this physical effect can have on individuals can be traumatic. Donating your hair to organizations such as Locks of Love is an incredibly simple way to show support and help the many cancer survivors and fighters.
Buy Pink
Many businesses make an effort to support breast cancer throughout the month of October. For Instance, Panera Bread locations make donations to local breast cancer organizations with the sales from their Pink Ribbon Bagels. And Ulta Beauty has launched its BCRF accessory collection, of which 50% of proceeds will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Just make sure to do your research before you shop to make sure that some of the proceeds from your purchase will in fact be donated to a breast cancer-related cause.
Get Screened
Breast cancer survivors and individuals currently fighting cancer are often at the forefront of our thoughts during this month, but don’t forget your own health as well. Be proactive and pick a time to visit the doctor to get screened for breast cancer. There’s even a designated day for it: National Mammography Day on the third Friday in October.
Donate to The National Breast Cancer Foundation
In 2015, 85% of NBCF’s spending went to programs including mammography and breast health services, education, and support for those in need. The organization was founded in 1991 by breast cancer survivor, Janelle Hail and has been committed ever since to “providing help and inspiring hope to those affected by breast cancer.”
