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A patient holding hands with their doctor
A patient holding hands with their doctor
Photo by National Cancer Institute from Unsplash
Cal Poly | Life > Experiences

February is National Cancer Prevention Month: 3 Ways to Get Involved

Updated Published
Samantha Roach Student Contributor, Cal Poly State University - San Luis Obispo
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Cal Poly chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

When I was 14, a friend of mine passed away from diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, commonly known as DIPG, a brain tumor that is also a rare form of cancer. I know I am not alone in experiencing the heartbreaking effects of cancer since the horrendous disease finds its way into most people’s lives; whether it is knowing someone with cancer or experiencing it firsthand. In 2024 alone, it was estimated that there would be 2,001,140 cancer diagnoses. Due to cancer’s impact, February was declared National Cancer Prevention Month in 2014. 

Here are three ways you can participate in National Cancer Prevention Month. 

1. Send cards to patients with cancer in hospitals 

Something as simple as a card can make someone’s day. Whether it is homemade or store bought, taking the time out of your day to send these patients a card can have a major impact on their lives. Sending a card is an easy way of letting them know that they are loved and cared about. St. Jude’s has a website where you can send free cards to patients, check it out! 

2. Donate to cancer research 

Cancer research is extensive and expensive; any amount of money, no matter how little or big, can help organizations continue their research on cures and treatments. The American Cancer Society is just one organization that dedicates its time to trying to find a cure. Research states that in 2024, the American Cancer Society “invested over $132 million in new cancer research.” Other organizations that contribute to cancer research are, American Institute for Cancer Research, Stand Up To Cancer, and Cancer Research Institute, just to name a few. If you are interested, these links will bring you to donation opportunities.  

3. Be an advocate  

Another great way to show support this month is by being an advocate. Advocacy can be as simple as resharing social media posts, going the extra mile to dedicate your time to volunteer work or attending events. Some pages to follow if you are looking to advocate on social media are: @gogoldforchildhoodcancer on Instagram, Cancer Support Community on Facebook and @TeenageCancer on X. Another way to show support outside of social media is volunteering at your local hospital. Whether you are working on gaining medical experience or just hanging out with the patients, your contribution can make a significant difference. Lastly, you can attend events in support of people suffering from cancer. The Cancer Support Community has an events section on their website with virtual and in-person events you can attend! Anything you can do to advocate is a step forward in ending this horrible disease and comforting those who are personally affected by it.  

Being involved during National Cancer Prevention Month shows patients that they are not alone in their fight. Showing support and being an advocate is one of the best things you can do. Remember, you may not know what someone is going through, so a little bit of kindness goes a long way.  

Samantha Roach

Cal Poly '28

Samantha is a second year journalism major at Cal Poly SLO. She has a passion for writing and public speaking. She has had experience in journalistic roles such as working with Mustang News and social media manager for various clubs and teams. She loves spending time with her family and friends, reading, and traveling. She is a huge concert girlie, her all time favorite artist is Taylor Swift. She hopes to thrive as an active member of Her Campus and gain valuable experience to further her journalism career.