We’re coming to the end of October now, but it’s not too late to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month! While posting on Facebook about #savethetatas is a good first step, there are some better ways to raise awareness that are just as easy. Here is your guide to making a difference this October, complete with Parks and Recreation gifs for your viewing pleasure.
Educate yourself!
Did you know that breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States? On a larger scale, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. This means that one in eight women in the U.S will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime. And while it is most common in women, men can get breast cancer too, the risk is just much smaller - only one in a thousand men will be diagnosed in their lifetime.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. has come up with a Breast Health Guide that you can get for free on their website. Yes, for free! Go get that. For additional facts, figures, information about treatment and anything else you can think of, you can visit the American Cancer Society site.
Get involved!
Buying pink ribbon items is okay, but most of the time, you’re really just feeding corporate marketing campaigns. Donating directly to a charity of your choice is a great way to get involved. Donations are tax-deductible through almost every organization, and TIME magazine has outlined a few that are accountable, successful, and unique. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is the highest rated breast cancer organization in the U.S, with 91% of donations going to research and awareness programs. Even the smallest donations count in this fight, so saving up some spare change is totally worth it!
Additionally, there are tons of opportunities for you to fundraise and volunteer during October (and throughout the year)! The American Cancer Society has some awesome programs like Road to Recovery and Look Good Feel Better that help cancer patients around the nation. If you find yourself too busy to commit to a long term program, events like Relay for Life may be for you! The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. also offers some cool opportunities, like the chance to host an event or create an online fundraiser. What’s better than getting some friends together for a bowling tournament while also funding breast cancer research?
Spread the word (and the love)!
You’re more likely to participate in events if you’re surrounded by people you know and love, so don’t forget to get your friends and family involved in the fight against breast cancer too! Spread the word, and support the cause.
Don’t forget, breast cancer awareness doesn’t lose importance after October is over. Breast cancer continues to be a big problem for many women around the world, so spreading the word (and the love) is something you should consider doing full-time! These women deserve it. Survivors - you are inspiring, beautiful, and loved. We're so proud of you.
