How to Show Support During Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, promoting early detection, and supporting those living with breast cancer. Established in 1985 by the American Cancer Society and AstraZeneca, this month has grown to address not only awareness but also treatment, research, and funding.
While spreading awareness is crucial, taking action is equally important. Here are some impactful ways to show your support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Volunteer Your Time
Volunteering is one of the most effective ways to support breast cancer patients. Across the United States, countless organizations and individuals need your help. Whether you volunteer with a large organization like the American Cancer Society or a local charity, your time can make a significant difference. You can also offer your support directly to individuals by helping them with daily tasks or providing transportation to medical appointments.
Participate in a Breast Cancer Walk or Run
Joining a run or walk is a popular way to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. At this point, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure has practically become synonymous with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Susan G. Komen organization hosts a wide range of runs, as well as walks, for those of any age and fitness to partake in.
Look up when these events are happening in your area and join in—but do it quickly, as registration may be closing soon! Between Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana, there are seven events coming up in October alone.
Donate scarves and hats to a chemo center
Due to the effects of chemotherapy, some cancer patients report feeling quite cold. With winter approaching, this feeling is only exacerbated. You can help cancer patients feel more comfortable during and after treatment by donating items such as hats, scarves, or blankets to your local chemo center.
If you enjoy knitting, this is a wonderful opportunity to contribute something handmade and personal to those living with breast cancer.
Start your own fundraiser
Whether you’d like to donate funds to your local breast cancer organization or you have a loved one who is currently fighting their breast cancer diagnosis, it’s a noble cause to start your own fundraiser. Host a bake sale, have a yard sale, or sell some of your own DIY goods and donate the proceeds. Make a bigger impact by gathering your friends and family to join in your efforts.
These days, you don’t even have to sell anything to raise money for a cause. You can start a fundraising goal on websites such as GoFundMe, Indiegogo, or Kickstarter. Once you’ve hit your goal, you can give to your organization or individual of choice.
Give to research programs
Spreading the word about breast cancer is important, of course, but the best outcome of the month is not spreading the word—it’s finding a cure. Have a direct impact on the process by donating to a research program. You may already donate to charities such as Susan G. Komen, which is fine, but only about 16 to 19% of its annual budget goes to research.
Donating to an organization such as the National Foundation for Cancer Research gives you the confidence of knowing precisely where your money is going.
Home care in Illinois
As you support those fighting breast cancer this month, don’t forget to care for yourself too. If the activities of daily living have grown to be arduous tasks, hire the help of an at-home caregiver. These professionals can assist with any non-medical support you require to age in place, from meal preparation to personal care.
If you have any questions about how home care could be beneficial to your quality of life, call Home Care Powered by AUAF at 773-274-9262. We would love to help.
