October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the time of year when the breast cancer awareness campaign is taken up a level. Activities are organized to spread the news about a matter that so many are still reluctant to discuss. There are several pink activities that happens during Breast Cancer Awareness Month which you can join to know more about this type of cancer and experience the strong bond that its supporters, advocates and sufferers share with each other. Here are some of these activities:
1. Moonwalk
Last year, one of the activities organized in Cebu, Philippines to celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month was a fun walk called Moonwalk that started at 5:00 p.m. Participants were encouraged to wear their pinkest costumes. Spearheaded by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc., Moonwalk 2013 was a "unique collective advocacy for Breast Cancer Awareness campaign focused on early screening and detection of breast cancer through monthly breast self-examination and mammography, especially for women aged 20 and beyond."
2. Party in Pink
Another one I really love - and looks really fun - is a zumbathon. With a tagline that says "Party in Pink", it really is a creative way to raise awareness about the disease. I found this website zumba.com, where people can donate to research about breast cancer awareness prevention. Check it out! You might be interested to join the campaign.
3. Online Information and Education Campaign
Breastcancerindia.net says that India is witnessing an age shift among women developing breast cancer: from 50-70 years old to 30-50 years. It's alarming. The website lists awareness campaigns and support groups, and has materials and resources that can be readily accessed by anyone who wants to know about breast cancer.
4. Style and Fashion Shows
Oh, how I love this! It's very empowering to see breast cancer survivors strutting their stuff on the runway. In the US, I love the Simply Pink style show. It's amazing to witness how they manage to survive such a huge blow in their health, family life, and professional career. I personally know two women who won the fight against breast cancer and I can say that they are living examples that being alive is a wonderful blessing.
5. Breast Talks
It was one uneventful afternoon. It was a slow day for most journalists and I got a call from my friend who said that a famous actor in the Philippines is speaking in a Breast Cancer Awareness forum. "What is he doing there?" I asked. It turns out that the actor's mother has breast cancer, something that he doesn't talk much about. My friend said it was an inspiring afternoon for everyone.
6. Paint the Town Pink
For a month, at least, ditch red and embrace your "pinkness". When I was still living in Cebu, Philippines, major landmarks are painted pink to mark the Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I think it's a great move to increase awareness about breast cancer. People who don't know about it will ask the question: "Why are the street lanes painted in pink?"
7. Support Groups
We see a breast cancer survivor and we say: "Wow, she is so strong!" But what most of us do not realize is the presence of the person's family members and support groups, who helped her (or him! Men can get breast cancer too!) fight the disease and all the physical, mental and emotional struggles that come with it. You can easily search online and look for support groups which you can join and volunteer with.
Any other activities do you have in mind to celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some fun pink-themed activities to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
- You can organize pink-themed parties, wear pink outfits, or host pink bake sales to raise awareness and show support.
- How can I involve my friends in Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
- Invite friends to join pink runs, charity walks, or craft sessions making pink ribbons to spread awareness together.
- Are there easy DIY pink crafts to celebrate the month?
- Yes! You can create pink ribbon bracelets, decorate pink candles, or make pink-themed greeting cards to share the message.
- Can cooking pink-themed recipes help raise awareness?
- Absolutely! Baking pink cupcakes or making strawberry smoothies are tasty ways to celebrate and spark conversations.
- What are some outdoor activities to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
- Participate in pink-themed walks, yoga sessions in the park, or group bike rides wearing pink gear.
- How can I use social media to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
- Share informative posts, use pink filters on photos, and join online challenges to spread awareness widely.
- Is it meaningful to donate during Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
- Yes, donating to cancer research organizations or local support groups can make a direct impact.
- Can I combine fitness and awareness during the month?
- Definitely! Organize or join pink-themed fitness classes or charity runs to promote health and awareness.
- What’s a simple way to show support at work?
- Wear pink accessories, decorate your workspace with pink ribbons, or organize a pink-themed lunch to engage colleagues.
- Are there any family-friendly pink activities to try?
- Yes, families can enjoy pink painting sessions, bake pink treats, or watch informative movies about breast cancer awareness together.