“Save the Ta-Tas,” “Think Pink,” “Support Second Base”—you’ve heard it all, and you’ll probably hear more this month. That’s because October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and everyone across the nation is banding together to make a very bold, very pink statement.
UChicago’s alpha Kappa Delta Phi (aKDPhi) is heading this battle cry on campus with its annual BOOBS series. Starting out with its Kick-Off on October 4, aKDPhi is raising awareness and money for the cause through raffles, student performances, and more. Most recently, it hosted BOOBS: The Panel, a panel/discussion that took place in Stuart Hall on Wednesday, October 10.
The panel spotlighted six breast cancer survivors—Alicia Cook, Eloise Orr, Stephanie Logan, Jacqueline Williams, Regina Dixon-Reeves, and Texie Washington—who came to speak on their experience with the disease. In addition to sharing the physical and emotional difficulties with which they grappled, the women provided tips on early detection. Panelists stressed the importance of consistent breast check-ups for men and women, and stated that everyone should be aware of his or her family medical history.
aKDPhi’s fight against breast cancer will continue with its upcoming “Battle for the Boobs,” an inter-organization competition taking place October 22 to 25. Various fraternities, sororities, and RSOs will compete to accumulate points and raise money for breast cancer research. All profits will go toward Avon Foundation, aKDPhi’s national philanthropy. The winning organization will also receive 10 percent of the total fundraised amount for their own use and a Letter of Commendation from the National Board.
Competition events will include Penny Wars, Smile for the Cure (a photo competition), Race for Second Base (a relay race), and a fundraising portion through Fundly. The week of events will culminate in aKDPhi’s annual Date Auction on Thursday, October 25.
Whether you wear pink, donate a couple bucks, or duke it out at the relay race, come out and show your support for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It’s not every day you can say you’re fighting for boobs.