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Published in on Oct 15th 2020

Getting Involved With Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Up until the past few decades, the conversation about breast cancer was a topic that wasn’t typically discussed in public. However, that began to change during the 1970s, when the United States First Lady Betty Ford came forward and openly discussed her experience with breast cancer and treatment. By simply being forthcoming, Ford triggered a domino effect that brought breast cancer to the forefront of American awareness.

In 1985, October was officially designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month by the American Cancer Society in conjunction with the pharmaceutical branch of Imperial Chemical Industries (now known as AstraZeneca). Since then, breast cancer awareness has exploded, with countless survivors, supporters, healthcare professionals, and researchers firmly raising their collective voices throughout October and all year long. Together, this community promotes research, offers support, and ensures that silence will never again dominate the breast cancer conversation.

Every October, many people around the globe show their support for breast cancer by donning a little pink ribbon, a small token of hope and compassion that transcends language and culture. In addition to wearing the pink ribbon, there are several other ways that people can get involved in and provide support for the fight against breast cancer.

Provide Support Through Donation or Fundraising

The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting awareness and support for breast cancer care and research, offers several donation options for both individuals and organizations. For individuals, they have the option to make a one-time gift ranging from $25 to $150. The funds are used to provide breast cancer patients with resources, such as HOPE Kits or access to breast cancer support services. The $150 gift is used to provide screening services for women who cannot afford care. Another option for individuals is to join NBCF’s Giving Circle, in which you pledge a certain amount every month.

For corporations and organizations, NBCF offers two partnership opportunities: self-directed partnerships and full-service partnerships. The self-directed partnership allows organizations to put together their own breast cancer awareness campaigns using tools provided by NBCF. The full-service partnership provides a much more in-depth partnership between your organization and NBCF.

Another option for individuals, businesses, students, and sports teams is to get involved by starting a fundraiser. Some fundraising ideas include:

• Selling T-shirts
• Participating in or hosting an athletic challenge
• Organizing and hosting a special event, such as a socially distanced garage sale or a virtual wine tasting

Share Your Story on Social Media

If you feel comfortable sharing your own experience as a breast cancer patient or survivor, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a great time for you to tell your story. Use the hashtag #HopeJourney so that you can connect with other members of the breast cancer awareness community.

For more information on Breast Cancer Awareness Month or to set an appointment for a breast exam in the San Francisco area, contact Pacific Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology today.