The month of October is all about the representing the color pink for breast cancer awareness. The power of pink began in 1991 and is used to represent hope for the future and the support behind breast cancer awareness and fundraising. Whether it be grocery store products or team gear worn during football games, the color pink is everywhere during this month. While wearing the color pink is representative of breast cancer, how can you truly become involved in the fight against breast cancer?
On Campus
Protect Our Breasts
Protect Our Breasts is an on campus registered organization that began in 2011. Protect Our Breasts is communication based and focuses on the prevention aspect of breast cancer through choosing safer products that avoid toxins and chemicals that contribute to breast cancer. This month their campaign is “Don’t Pink About It, Think About It” (see video above) and focuses on the idea that prevention through safer products is imperative towards breast cancer. This month Protect Our Breasts is asking each person who he or she wants to protect against the disease. “Like” Protect Our Breasts on Facebook here and to join this organization, you can message the Facebook group for more information.
Relay for Life
Relay for Life in North Attleboro, Massachusetts June, 2012
Each spring, UMass Amherst has many registered organizations that take part in the 5 College Relay for Life. Relay for Life is an event fundraiser for cancer research and providing funds for the American Cancer Society. This organization is not limited to supporting breast cancer as all cancers are fundraised for throughout the event. There are several of these events throughout the states and the dates can be found on the Relay for Life website. To get involved with the local 5 College Relay, you can join the Colleges Against Cancer Committee or form your own team online and start preparing for the event. The 5 College Relay for Life Facebook page can be liked here.
Off Campus
Susan G. Komen
Susan G. Komen is an organization that raises funds for research, education and support programs for breast cancer throughout the United States. There are different ways to become involved with the Susan G. Komen organization by either participating or volunteering for the Komen Race for the Cure, or the Komen 3-Day for the Cure. These are just two of the events that the Komen organization hosts. Check out their website to sign up and participate in these events.
The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer
The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer is a 2 day, 39 mile walk that uses raised funds for research, funding cancer screening, treatment and support services. There are several dates throughout the year across the United States that participants can sign up for. The Boston date this year is May 17-18, 2014 and you can register on their website. If you do not wish to walk in the event, volunteers are still welcome to help organize the event.
These are just a handful of ways that you can become involved in the fight against breast cancer this month. There are many other opportunities out there that haven’t been listed and can be found throughout different cities and communities. This month wear pink and join in the fight against cancer!