How to Show Support During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

How to Show Support During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Though each month has its own topic of awareness (or two or three), October boasts potentially one of the most well-known awareness months: Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Initially developed in 1985 by the American Cancer Society and what is now known as AstraZeneca to encourage women to get regular mammograms, the month has expanded far past its initial purpose. This time of year has grown to address treatment, research, and funding.

Naturally, awareness is essential to ensuring women across the country get the help they need. However, awareness is only one step toward the goal. There are a myriad of options for how you can show support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to those who are suffering from the condition.

Volunteer

One of the most straightforward ways to make a positive impact on breast cancer patients is to volunteer. Given the size of the Chicago area, there are plenty of organizations you can donate your time to, from the American Cancer Society to smaller, local charities.

It’s not only companies who need your help—it’s individuals too. You can donate your time directly to a cancer patient by helping them make their appointments, delivering meals, or assisting around the house. Start with your loved ones if you know anyone struggling with their diagnosis. If you don’t know anyone directly, some organizations may be able to pair you with a cancer patient.

Participate in a run or walk

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 or a loved one practice knitting, this would be a fantastic way to put your hobby to use. Not only will you be engaging your mind and your fine motor skills, but you will be helping those in need. Receiving something with a hand-made touch is meaningful to those receiving treatment.

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.