Fall has arrived but it’s time to change the color we associate with October from orange to pink. Continuing with the theme that comes along with the month, I think it would be a great opportunity to shine a little more light on the efforts surrounding the fight against breast cancer and increasing the awareness of this devastating disease.
This year, it is estimated that 200,000 people will be told that they have breast cancer. Almost 40,000 will lose their lives. And over the next 25 years, 10 million more will be diagnosed. Recently there have been big breakthroughs made in treatment, diagnosis, prevention, and awareness of breast cancer, but if we expect to see more improvement then we all have a part to play. Here are some ways in which you can help, not only during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but all the time:
Donate. This is an easy step that can make a huge difference. With organizations like Susan G. Komen, The American Cancer Society, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation, you can conveniently make a donation online or by sending a check through the mail.
Volunteer. Donating isn’t just restricted to money. One of the most valuable gifts you can give someone is a donation of your time. Most of the races and walks organized by the Komen Foundation and American Cancer Society are looking for dedicated volunteers to make the events happen each year. You can also volunteer at local cancer centers, participate in clinical trials and donate blood. Search online for volunteer opportunities and sign up with an organization in your area.
Participate in an event. A number of events are offered through different fundraising organizations. Some raise money to fund research, some offer prevention programs, some provide outreach and education for those who have just been diagnosed; all are worthy causes that are dependent upon your participation and enthusiastic support. So join in activities ranging from anything such as bowling, to cooking, to golfing. A great way to celebrate survivorship and honor those who have lost the battle is by finding a local Race for the Cure—put on by Susan G. Komen, this is noted as the most successful charity event ever created.
Start your own fundraiser. This is your opportunity to get creative. Gather friends, church members and neighbors in your community and host an event to raise money by means such as a bake sale, silent auction, pot luck dinner, or even your own sporting event or marathon.
Become an advocate. To do this, sign on to the Breast Cancer Bill of Rights and you are signing on to a foundation to ensure the protection of rights for breast cancer patients. You will be joining thousands of other advocates and voicing the opinion that access to quality health care is not an option, but a right.
If you or a loved one has been afflicted with breast cancer, this month probably touches close to home and carries with it a lot of significance. With over 25 years of awareness, education and empowerment, Breast Cancer Awareness Month has come a long way…but there are still great strides that we need to take to achieve results leading ultimately to a cure. Join in the fight today and make a difference in someone’s life.
“Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10
Amy Reynolds is a guest post author bringing to us her thoughts on Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She also writes about the advantages of online dating for Best Free Dating Sites.
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