Each October, the world begins to “think pink” when it comes to breast cancer awareness. With statistics such as “1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer*”, it’s no surprise. But the good news? About 2.6 million female breast cancer survivors currently live in the United States*. And that number continues to grow thanks to research provided by the numerous foundations that make it possible.
The “pink” campaign began in 1990 by the then-titled Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation but is now called Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Now it’s so much easier to purchase the items you regularly buy (or even splurge on a new one) and benefit breast cancer awareness and research at the same time. Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists have put together a handful of options for every type of personality and budget.
- Sonia Kashuk’s Proudly Pink 5-piece brush set benefits the Breast Cancer Research Foundation all year-round. The set is available at Target.
- Philosophy’s Shower for the Cure ($20) Has a feminine tangerine scent and multi-tasks as shampoo, bubble bath or shower gel in one. 100% of the proceeds support the Women’s Cancer Research Fund.
- Have the man in your life show his support for breast cancer with a pink tie from theShopKomen.com online store.
- Gift a teddy-bear lover (young or old) with an incredibly soft pink bear with a “I heart volunteers” t-shirt.
- Planning on running or walking in the 3-Day in Atlanta this October? New Balance sneakers have partnered with the Susan G. Komen foundation and have a line of (really cute) pink sneakers for runners and walkers everywhere.
When purchasing items to benefit breast cancer research, because of a phenomenon known as “pinkwashing,” be advised when you’re out and about and looking for items that truly do support breast cancer research. According to the Better Business Bureau, in order to make sure donations go to the right place, it’s best to research pink product claims before making a purchase. Ask questions, research the business, confirm the charity’s corporate sponsors, and lastly, consider a direct donation in lieu of purchasing an item. Choose your own favorite breast cancer outreach and research charity and donate to them directly. (It’s tax-deductible that way.)
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How do you and your family raise awareness and support breast cancer research? Share your stories by leaving a comment below.
*Statistics via this infographic and the Edith Sanford Breast Cancer Foundation
