October 2010 marks the 25th year of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While medical science has made many strides forward in the detection and treatment of breast cancer, there is still a long way to go. Here are 10 ways you can support breast cancer research:
Click
With one click of your mouse, help fund free mammograms for women in need here.
Participate in an event
Two major yearly events are the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure. Click here for locations and dates of these events near you).
Volunteer
Fundraising programs are always looking for help—invest your time in a good cause.
Blog
If you have a website or a blog, join the Pink for October campaign at www.pinkforoctober.org.
Spend
Purchase products that donate a portion of their profits to breast cancer research. Lots of things we use every day will be colored pink in October—everything from office supplies to cosmetics to food items. For example, Yoplait yogurt will donate 10 cents to Susan G. Komen for the Cure for every pink lid sent to them by December 31, 2010, with a guaranteed donation of at least $500,000. Look for pink packaging or a pink ribbon logo on participating products.
Create
Create a product and donate some, or all, of your proceeds to breast cancer research. Sell original artwork, crafts, and/or other handcrafted items at a yard sale, on eBay, or on Etsy.com.
Participate in a study
Researchers always need participants for studies to learn more about breast cancer. If you have had breast cancer, or if it runs in your family, you may be able to help.
Help pass laws to defeat cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, its advocacy group, Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), played a key role in getting insurance companies to cover cancer screenings like mammograms. Check their website to see how you can help.
Donate
There are many reputable local and national organizations dedicated to breast cancer research, such as the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Just make sure the majority of your donation goes to research and not administrative expenses. If you have any questions, check out charitable organizations here.
Spread the word
Talk to friends and family about the importance of breast cancer awareness and the need for continued funding for research.
A creative way to support breast cancer research
“Link With Pink” promotional video
“Link With Pink” is a student-led, service-oriented committee at Hinsdale Middle School in Hinsdale, Illinois. “Link With Pink” is also a team of participants in the Chicago Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. Together, they raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and treatment while linking our schools and community. This video illustrates the wonderful collaboration they share in the effort to end breast cancer in their lifetimes.
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