October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Based on existing data and statistics on breast cancer, it is likely that you or someone you know may have suffered from it. According to the Center for Disease Control, excluding skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States no matter race or ethnicity. Our Soma family is personally affected by breast cancer and we feel strongly towards supporting all causes that advance cancer research. For all of October, proceeds from sales of our pink bottle will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. BCRF is committed not only to finding a cure for breast cancer, but also to prevention at the outset.
It’s easy to see a problem like cancer and think there’s nothing we can do that will make a difference. Most of us are not research scientists and we worry that anything within our power won’t mean much. But that’s not the case. The reality is that support is meaningful across many levels. So what can you do to support breast cancer research and the mission to find a cure? Here’s what:
Volunteer. You can volunteer for a cancer research organizations in several capacities -- helping in an office, volunteering at an event or fundraiser, or even to help patients directly whether in a hospital or organizational setting.. For example, the American Cancer Society has a program called “The Road to Recovery” where volunteers drive patients to and from their life-saving treatment. Something as small as giving someone a ride can make a huge difference. Also, if you have a specific skill, consider how that might be helpful to cancer patients and cancer research. Are you a yoga instructor? Helping patients calm their bodies and minds is exceptionally helpful for the nervous system. Are you a professional fundraiser? Maybe you can help with
Donate. If you can spare it, every little bit helps. Money is what funds research and helps patients get to their appointments when nobody is available to drive them.
Don’t know how to donate? We’ll help. Soma will be donating all Blush Bottle profits for the month of October to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
Fundraise. Sometimes the best way to get people to support an organization is to get them actively involved. A walk, run, or relay, maybe a golf tournament or basketball game, a charity poker game -- there are all sorts of events that are in the service of a greater cause. Find one that works for you! Or if you’d rather start your own event, grab some friends and get the ideas going.
Whatever you do, know that you can do something. And remember, it may feel minor or small but these minor and small gestures can make a real difference.