October is over, now what?

By: Heather Church

Photos: Alex Rivera

Breast Cancer victims and survivors do not get through their struggles because of a color. They get through it with emotional support and research being funded. Therefore, more needs to be done than just wearing pink for one month.

October is well-known as Breast Cancer Awareness month, but it’s what is called “empty awareness.” Supporters will wear pink throughout the month, but they do not take further action. Even worse, the support ends once November arrives.

Sure, there are popular runs and organizations that we hear about contributing to Breast Cancer foundations. However, the vast majority commonly does not participate further than wearing pink during one month of the year.

Breast Cancer victims and survivors do not get through their struggles because of a color. They get through it with emotional support and research being funded. Therefore, more needs to be done than just wearing pink for one month.

Don’t get me wrong, the “pink” campaign was a great way to gain awareness when it first came around, but at this point everyone is aware what breast cancer is.

What can you do to support breast cancer victims and survivors?

Educate yourself on the facts. Anyone can get can breast cancer. It is important to learn how it could affect you, your family, or friends, and then inform them as well.

The best place to learn about breast cancer and its effects is the American Cancer Society. Their website, www.cancer.org, has information on every type of cancer, and what you can do. Do not underestimate educating yourself on this topic.

As college students, money is tight, and it is not easy to donate to other charities when you feel like one yourself. Instead of donating money, you can donate your time by volunteering in the local community. The American Cancer Society has volunteer opportunities nationwide, including in our nation’s capital just 15 minutes away from Marymount’s main campus.

To sign up to volunteer for the American Cancer Society, you can simply go to their website’s volunteer section.

Live your best life throughout the year and provide support for breast cancer outside of one month.

Marymount’s Student Health Services hosts health education and wellness events throughout the year, and Saints’ Center for Service is always looking for new ways to empower students and get them engaged in volunteer opportunities.

You have these resources to make a difference in both your life, and someone else’s life. Don’t wait another year only to wear more pink.