Think Pink

Breast Cancer is something that all young women should be educated about. Understanding and making sense of the disease can be overwhelming and confusing. October is the National Breast Cancer Awareness month. Even though women should get checked throughout the year, the month of October is used for making others aware of Breast Cancer, what is actually is, and how to possibly prevent it. October is also when many companies and organizations try to raise money for Breast Cancer research.

Photo by Catie Wilson

Susan G. Komen for a Cure, is an organization that was started in 1982 and has played a major role fight against breast cancer, From making people aware, changing how they talk about and treat this disease and helping to turn millions of breast cancer patients into breast cancer survivors. Komen for a Cure has had many victories. The Komen Race for a Cure is one example of how this organization has helped in the advancement of breast cancer awareness.

This is a time for young college age women to become aware of how breast cancer could affect them. It is a time to learn the facts and the risks about this disease. According to the Komen for a Cure organization, a young woman should have a clinical breast exam at least every three years starting at 20, and every year starting at 40.

Many organizations such as churches, universities, and even local business are trying to help get people involved and active in the fight to cure breast cancer. Whether it is by sponsoring a team in the Race for a Cure, or holding their own fundraiser, people are trying to raise money for research.

One type of fundraiser that is aimed toward young women is a Scrapbooking event called, ScrapPink. Bethany Free Will Baptist Church in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma has held their all-day scrapbook event for the last 3 years, with proceeds benefiting the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation.

With just a twenty-five dollar cover charge, the women can scrapbook from nine in the morning until nine in the evening. There are a variety of local vendors that have booths with various craft items, including any scrapbook supply needs that they may have during the day. It is a time to raise money for breast cancer, while participating in their favorite hobby.

Camille Gniech, a member of Bethany Free Will Baptist Church, started ScrapPink in memory of her mother that past away from Breast Cancer.

“I want to raise money for research,” said Gniech, “I feel that scrapbooking is a good way for women to play a part in the fundraising. It is something that many women love to do.”

Photo by Catie Wilson

There are several other ways to get involved in the fight against breast cancer. To check out what is happening near you go to http://ww5.komen.org/.