Betsey Johnson, a breast cancer survivor, stated, “with over 3 million women battling breast cancer today, everywhere you turn there is a mother, daughter, sister, or friend who has been affected by breast cancer.”
According to the American Breast Cancer Society, breast cancer starts when cells in the breast begin to grow out of control. There are many types of breast cancer: Ductal Carcinoma in situ (DCIS), Lobular Carcinoma in situ (LCIS), Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, Invasive Lobular Carcinom, and Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC).
There are multiple tests given to confirm breast cancer. These tests include mammograms, MRI scans, breast ultrasounds, ductograms and nipple discharge exams. However, a biopsy is the only way to tell if you have breast cancer for certain.
If it is confirmed that you have breast cancer, there are treatments offered. Surgery and radiation will treat only cancer. Chemotherapy and hormone drugs will affect the whole body.
According to the American Breast Cancer Society, “one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.” It is estimated each year over 230,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 will die. However, there are over 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States today. With these statistics, it is important to find a cure for cancer.
In 1928, Zeta Tau Alpha (ZTA) aided the residents of communities in Virginia by establishing a health center. Later, as the health center closed, they continued to help people. Today, I am proud to say, the ZTA philanthropy is breast cancer education and awareness.
The Creed of Zeta Tau Alpha asks members to “think in terms of all mankind and our service in the world.” Therefore at Texas A&M University, members of ZTA organize a variety of events to raise money for breast cancer education and awareness.
Think Pink Week at Texas A&M University (TAMU) is a week devoted to help raise money for breast cancer education and awareness by providing students with fun and exciting events. Located at our house in College Station, Texas, we invite members of the community to join us at Cupcakes for a Cure. We provide an assortment of desserts for everyone’s preference as we mingle and discuss the importance of breast cancer education and awareness.
Additionally, in order to raise funds and breast cancer awareness on TAMU’s campus, we allow students to participate in a dunk tank and we bring puppies for students to hold. Also, Big Man on Campus (BMOC) is a big hit. We ask male contestants to compete in a talent show. However, leading up to the talent show each contestant raises money to donate to breast cancer education and awareness.
As a proud member of Zeta Tau Alpha, I know the importance of breast cancer education and awareness. We continue to raise money to help those affected by breast cancer. Also, we encourage women to follow doctor orders, as breast cancer is no joke.
Every person reading this article has been affected by breast cancer in one way or another. You have either had breast cancer or know a loved one that has had or has breast cancer. The stories and experiences are heart wrenching! Please remember, you will always have support through ZTA. We stand by everyone affected by breast cancer.
