Each year, during the month of October, we celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a campaign that is designed to increase awareness of breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, next to skin cancer. Each year, more than 2,300 men and 230,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and more than 40,000 women die from this disease. If breast cancer is detected and treated early enough, the five year survival rate is 98 percent. Breast cancer can be detected early when performing a self breast exam, having a qualified nurse or doctor perform a clinical breast exam, or having a mammogram regularly.

Breast cancer is something that has affected most, if not all, of us. We have all had some experience with breast cancer, which is why this month is a time to support the men and women who have fought or are currently fighting. There are many great ways this October to help support the fight, like:

American Cancer Society “Making Strides” Walks

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks are breast cancer charity events where people come together to support those affected by breast cancer. These walks raise awareness about the steps that will help to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer. The money raised through these events goes toward the American Cancer Society to fund breast cancer research, information, support, and mammograms for women who need them. The following are dates you can get involved and participate in an event in New England this October:

October 4: Making Strides of Boston

October 18: Making Strides of Providence

October 18: Making Strides of Concord

October 18: Making Strides of Hartford

October 18: Making Strides of Greater Portland

For more information: http://makingstrides.acsevents.org/site/PageServer?pagename=MSABC_CY15_FindAnEvent&gclid=CLeugJfAu8gCFYsYHwodbz0EAw

Haymakers for Hope

Haymakers for Hope is a charity organization that holds boxing tournaments to raise money for cancer research. Their mission “is to KO cancer the only way we know how; by literally fighting for a cure.” Each event is organized by amateur boxing participants, local boxing gyms, and volunteers in the hopes of raising money for researchers to gain the resources they need to find a cure to cancer. This October, participate in the Belles of the Brawl in Boston, MA. The event takes place on Oct. 7 at the House of Blues.

For more information: https://haymakersforhope.org

Flames of Hope

The Flames of Hope is a celebration of life for those affected by breast cancer. The Flames of Hope Run/Walk Series is the largest fundraiser that provides programs and services for citizens of the Providence, RI area living with breast cancer. The event includes Kids Fun Run, Pink Pump Palooza, and the Gloria Gemma 5K Run/Walk. There is also the Illuminations of Life Ceremony, in which torchbearers raise money for the cause.

For more information: http://www.flamesofhoperi.org

Breast Cancer Awareness Day at Six Flags New England

This day is put together by the joint efforts of Six Flags New England and the American Cancer Society. The all-new event exists to promote healthy living and spread breast cancer awareness. To participate, arrive at the park showing your support in pink. You will receive a coupon, and for every coupon redeemed, Six Flags will donate $1 to the American Cancer Society. There will be a “Pretty in Pink Fashion Show” with an information session about healthy living. Throughout the day, purchase a pink ribbon for $1, and all funds will be donated to the American Cancer Society. This event will take place on October 18.

For more information: https://www.sixflags.com/newengland/special-events/other-events/breast-cancer-awareness-day

A Crucial Catch

A Crucial Catch is a partnership between the NFL and the American Cancer Society to support the fight for breast cancer. The campaign focuses on the importance of regular breast cancer screening. The Crucial Catch events take place throughout October. NFL games have players, coaches, and referees wear pink apparel, and throughout the stadium, there will be efforts to raise awareness of the cause. This October, go out and support your favorite football team while supporting the men and women affected by cancer. The New England Patriots will host their pregame ceremonies on Oct. 25.

For more information: http://www.nfl.com/pink

Pinktober at Hard Rock

Pinktober is an initiative of the Hark Rock Café to fight against breast cancer. The campaign, hosted around the world, reaches the rock and roll community through events, merchandise, and music. A portion of the funds raised from the events goes directly towards the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Hard Rock Café Boston will host a wrap party with music, auction, appetizers, a signature pink drink, and a cash bar to benefit the Ellie Fund on Oct. 27. Visit other participating locations to help make a difference in the lives of many.

For more information: http://www.hardrock.com/promos/pinktober-2015

Lokai Bracelet

The latest fashion trend has been the Lokai bracelet, and Lokai has released a Limited Edition Pink Lokai Bracelet in support of breast cancer research. Between Sept. 13 and Oct. 3, they will donate $1 to Susan G. Komen for each bracelet sold. The will also contribute a minimum of $250,000 in an effort to further Komen’s mission to save lives and end breast cancer. The bracelet is $18 and can be purchased in a small, medium, large, or extra large.

For more information: http://mylokai.com/shop/lokai-bracelet-pink.html/

These are just a few fun and exciting ways you can go out and help fight for an important cause. Just one person's effort can help many people fighting this awful disease across the globe. There are many foundations that would appreciate any kind of donation or volunteer support. Simply wearing pink and getting a breast screening will help raise awareness about this cause.

This October, do all you can to Think Pink!