One in every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women. Every three minutes someone is diagnosed, and every thirteen minutes someone dies from the disease. There are, however, about 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in America today.
Each October, a national campaign is held to raise awareness of breast cancer. Across the country, we focus on honoring those who have passed due to the disease and finding a cure. Not only that, but we are encouraged to take the steps to detect breast cancer in its early stages. The following are some ways that you can support breast cancer awareness and research this month.
Set up an Early Detection Plan
“The best way to fight breast cancer is to have a plan that helps you detect the disease in its early stages” (National Breast Cancer Foundation). While the survival rate of this cancer is 98% if detected early, studies show that most women do not get a mammogram as frequently or as early as they should. The NBCF has created an online plan for women to schedule mammograms, which ranges from providing information on self breast exams, to helping you know when and where to schedule exams. Download the app or visit the site linked above to create your plan, and encourage your friends and family to do the same.
Plan a girls’ night out or mini vacation with your significant, and stay at the Loews. During the month of October they are decorating rooms with pink flowers and donating a portion of the room rates to various Breast Cancer Awareness foundations. Also, visit their Precinct Kitchen and Bar which will be lit up in pink, and if you’re of age, try their Mammorita. It’s a tequila based drink that costs $13, all of which is donated to Friends of Dana Farber.
On November 1st, The Place on Broad Street in Boston is hosting a Halloween party to benefit the Slater Foundation and Ellie Fund in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. There will be a bar with beverage sponsors, appetizers, DJ and dancing, and costume prizes! Tickets are $35 ahead of time, and 100% of the proceeds are going to those foundations.
Her Campus Suffolk’s Pretty in Pink Party
Each year our Her Campus team throws a pink party to raise money for the cause. While we are currently in the process of planning out the details, more information will soon be released about the date and location! Stay tuned for more info and like us on Facebook, where you can also check out pictures from last year’s Pretty in Pink Party!
Thinking about chopping off your long locks for the winter season? Tell your hairdresser that you want to donate to Locks of Love so that your hair can be used to make wigs for women and children dealing with the loss of their hair, which comes along with cancer and many other diseases. As long as you’re cutting off more than 10 inches of your hair, it can be used to help a patient in need.
SELF Magazine is hosting a series of rides at 10 different Flywheel cycling studios across America to benefit the American Cancer Society. Wear pink and get your exercise in while also having fun and helping the cause. Rides are taking place at three different time intervals on October 18th for $35 per ride. Sign up at the link above. (You’ll also receive a free one year subscription to SELF!)
Go Shopping
If you’re in need of a shopping spree (who isn’t?!), or gifts for birthdays or holidays, check out some of the links below to shop lines dedicated to donating proceeds to breast cancer research.
Donate
If you’re at all able, consider donating to one of the many breast cancer research foundations this month. Anything you can give helps and we will be one step closer to finding a cure. Below are some of the foundations accepting online donations.
“The leading youth-focused, global, nonprofit breast cancer organization. Our mission is to eradicate breast cancer for future generations. We provide support programs for young people impacted by cancer and educate people about prevention, early detection, and cancer-causing toxins in our everyday environment.”
“The National Breast Cancer Foundation’s mission is to help women now by providing help and inspiring hope to those affected by breast cancer through early detection, education and support services.”
“The mission of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation is to prevent and cure breast cancer by advancing the world’s most promising research.”
“Providing financial assistance for breast cancer screenings and diagnostic tests for uninsured and underserved individuals, regardless of age or gender.”