While many of us associate October with Halloween, this month is also designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast Cancer Awareness Month was created to increase awareness about breast cancer and educate people on what they can do to help those afflicted by it and inspire them to keep fighting. 

Raising money is one of the most important ways to help.  Money raised from donations and fundraisers helps with research, cancer treatment and patient family needs. While going to fundraising events is the preference of many, it is not the only way one can donate. You can also donate online through Go Fund Me pages or directly to the specific cancer program itself. Remember, every bit helps, no matter how small the donation may be.

Volunteering your time is another great way to help those affected with cancer. Sending a card to a patient, even one you might not know; taking the time to visit patients at a hospital; and volunteering at a fundraiser are all great and easy ways to make a contribution.  

     October of 1985 marked the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month when Betty Ford, the former First Lady of President Gerald Ford, survived this deadly disease and wanted more people to learn about it across the country. Every year, 264,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and 42,000 women sadly pass each year due to it. Breast Cancer not only affects women but also men, in whom 2,400 cases take place annually, with 500 of them resulting in death. 

The famous pink ribbon is the symbol for Breast Cancer. This symbol comes from the promise Nancy G. Brinker, the founder of the Komen Foundation, made to her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, to do what she could to end breast cancer. Ever since then, this symbol represents the fight against breast cancer, with people also wearing pink ribbons on their clothing during this month to show their support for those afflicted with this disease and to honor the patients and those who have sadly passed. 

In my family, I have had close relatives who have been diagnosed and have taken treatment for breast cancer. For many families, this can be a very scary and painful time in a person’s life. This awful disease is truly a game changer for families that are affected by it. While science is providing us with new information, treatments and medicines which help many people survive, there are still too many who do not.  

Here at Cardinal Newman, we brought attention to Breast Cancer Awareness month. Students who donated $2 or more were permitted to wear a pink t-shirt for a day. 100% of the proceeds went to Breast Cancer Research. At the time of this writing, it is unknown how much was raised, but the turnout was impressive.

As Breast Cancer Awareness month comes to a close this week, we should all keep in mind that October does not have to be the only month for awareness. If anything, every October should kick start all of us coming together to raise awareness throughout the year.