Every October, people look forward to seeing spooky decorations like ghosts, skeletons, and pumpkins, but October is also a time for the color pink to boldly stand for those who have fought breast cancer, survivors, and those whose lives have been touched by the disease. Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) is more than a simple acknowledgement, it is a beacon of hope and an ongoing effort in the fight against breast cancer.
October was not chosen because of any association with the season. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, “October was chosen to honor the efforts of early advocates and coincide with global research events. The pink ribbon became a symbol of hope and action during this time” (nationalbreastcancer.org). October is about remembering those who fought for awareness and hope, turning fear into support.
Almost everyone can say that they know someone affected by breast cancer. According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, “Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women both in the developed and less developed world. In 2012, it represented about 12 percent of all new cancer cases and 25 percent of all cancers in women” (bcrf.org). It has become crucial to prioritize getting screened for breast cancer as early as possible, in an effort to find the cancer early and treat it as soon as possible.
Personal experiences with breast cancer can make awareness efforts very meaningful and heartfelt. Junior Mia Sabtoka said, “When I was seven years old, my mom was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. As a seven-year-old whose parent is becoming weaker and losing her hair, you can’t just feel scared; you have to have strength.” To Sabtoka, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a very meaningful time.
Personal stories often reveal the true impact of cancer on individuals and their families. Sabtoka said, “To this day my mom’s battle with breast cancer has affected me. She has shown me to stay strong even when the worst happens and to keep one foot in front of the other.” BCAM can be a great time to reflect on past cancer battles and honor the strength it took to overcome that struggle.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also an important time for those in a continuing battle with cancer. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, “BCAM is a global campaign to raise awareness for breast cancer, increase screenings, and provide critical support for patients and survivors. Since 1989, increased awareness through campaigns like BCAM has helped reduce breast cancer deaths in the United States by 44 percent.” There are more than four million breast cancer survivors in the United States, including women still being treated and those who have completed treatment (nationalbreastcancer.org). Awareness efforts not only save lives but also offer hope and support to those fighting the disease.
Personal experiences of those affected by cancer can often serve as motivators for raising awareness. Sabtoka said, “Being a child of a parent who had breast cancer makes you become more aware of serious medical settings, the tolls of chemo, radiation, and surgeries. My mom’s battle with breast cancer inspired me to pursue a medical pathway and be able to have a career to help others facing cancer.” BCAM can help bring this kind of attention to people who have not been as directly affected by breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month can be a valuable month to take a moment and reflect on how breast cancer affects women and men every day. Sabtoka said, “Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to reflect on not just awareness but also an opportunity to take action to help those fighting and to help find a cure. Breast cancer affects one in eight women, so you likely know a loved one or someone in your life affected.”
Breast Cancer Awareness month is not just about wearing pink; it’s about remembering those affected by the disease, honoring the lives lost, and the pushing for progress. By sharing stories, raising awareness, and supporting research, we keep the message alive that no one fights alone. October reminds us that unity, hope, and strength are powerful in the fight against breast cancer.