Breast cancer affects an estimated 271,000 women and men in the United States and is the second most common cancer among women. Many of us know someone who is currently battling or has battled breast cancer, which is why Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important time of the year to show additional support to the cause. It’s time to roll out your pink gear and continue the fight!
This October, here are just a few of the many helpful things YOU can do to show your support.
#1 -- Donate to research initiatives
Funding and research are critical. Some forms of breast cancer receive more or less funding than other forms. When you’re looking for charities or organizations to donate to, read the descriptions and the small print to determine if they are researching for a cure or supporting a patient and their family with expenses, rather than just “awareness”.
#2 -- Educate yourself & others
Continue your education and stay informed on accurate information around breast cancer. If you have questions, use your care team as a resource; doctors and nurses in the field will be able to provide accurate information. It’s important to have conversations with friends and family about your research and helpful resources. Keep up to date on new industry findings, signs, community initiatives, and healthy lifestyle tips.
#3 -- Understand the risks
Because breast cancer is so common, it’s important to understand your own personal risk and how to detect or look for signs. Breast cancer is more common in woman, which would be a relative risk, though it’s important to also understand your own personal risk based off your health, lifestyle, and genetics. If you are concerned, reach out to your care provider and get ahead of the issue. It is recommended that woman over 40 should schedule an annual mammogram. Keep up to date on your visits!
#4 -- Provide support to those who need it
There are so many ways to show support to those who need it, not only in October, but all year round. Offer to drive them to and from a session or treatment, donate clothes, accessories, and blankets, offer to clean their home or walk the dog. Most importantly, be a shoulder for them to lean on, listen to their story and to their stresses. The value here is priceless.
For the entire month of October, our friends in Charlotte have teamed up with The American Cancer Society to celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness. Join us in the fight against breast cancer by purchasing an exclusive BCA t-shirt! A portion of the proceeds will be donated to The American Cancer Society as they continue to bring hope and resources to cancer patients and their families. Check it out here.