Empower Change This October

Five Ways To Support Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Photo by Ted Fu / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The month of October signifies Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It’s a time dedicated to educating people about breast cancer, as well as emphasizing the importance of early detection resources. As of 2024, there are over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. This month is devoted to bringing attention to the 42,000 women and men the U.S. loses each year to breast cancer. With breast cancer being a significant issue, here are five ways to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. 

1.  Wear Pink 

The pink ribbon has become the universal symbol of breast cancer. With pink being a symbol of solitude towards those who suffer from breast cancer, wearing pink is a great way to show support. By wearing a pink shirt, jacket, hairtie, or any other pink accessory, individuals can bring awareness to those affected by the disease. 

2. Share Stories 

Bringing awareness to the stories of those affected by breast cancer is a great way to show support. Highlighting the stories of breast cancer survivors on social media or through events can empower and inspire others. The U.S. loses over 40,000 women and men to breast cancer each year; it is important to share the stories of those who died as well. Through art, testimonies, charity organizations or community events, people can share their personal stories or keep alive the stories of individuals who did not survive.

3. Attend Community Events  

Attending community events is another opportunity to support breast cancer awareness month. These events foster a sense of community amongst survivors and their families. They also provide a space to honor those who have died. Oftentimes, these events hold donation opportunities that go to research or other resources. Some events in Tallahassee include Go Pink and Making Strides of Leon, in which attending supports breast cancer awareness month. 

4. Donate 

Whether it's donating money, time or expertise, donating something is a way to fight against breast cancer. Donating money to charities benefits research, medical equipment, technology, and other resources that are crucial to surviving breast cancer. If an individual is unable to donate money, they can donate their time by attending a community event. Or, an individual could donate their expertise in an area, such as education, to help provide the community with information. 

5. Advocate for Regular Screenings 

Getting regular screenings for Breast Cancer can detect early signs of the disease. If cancers are detected early, they can often be treated earlier, allowing for less treatments and a shorter recovery. Early detection saves lives and gives patients more time to fight the cancer. So, receiving and encouraging family and friends to get regular screenings is a way to make a difference. 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month offers many opportunities to bring awareness to and support people with the disease. By getting involved in these ways to support the month, a real difference can be made.