Hardly any of us can escape the harsh realties of breast cancer because it plagues even the strongest of families. Not only does breast cancer affect those close to us, but even mere acquaintances.
It is estimated that 192, 370 women this year will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society.
Beginning Oct. 5 until the 15, Sinclair’s campus collaborated to honor National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The campus goal was to raise awareness and donate $1,000 to the American Cancer Society.
In order to raise money, the Sinclair Bookstore was selling their pink merchandise for 20 percent off; the Student Leadership Association sold plush pink teddy bears, breast cancer necklaces, bookmarks, mini footballs and delectable baked cupcakes.
“People knew that their money was going to a good cause,” said Jasmine Rogers, student event planner for SLA. “The money raised will be donated to the American Cancer Society so that they can be one step closer to finding a cure.”
On Oct. 12, the Student Leadership Association sponsored a balloon launch. More than 400 pink and white balloons were launched to honor those who have lost their struggle and those that have survived breast cancer.
“I wanted to see an ocean of pink balloons lifting in the air, in order to commemorate those who have lost their struggle with breast cancer and for those who have survived,” said Rogers. “It just shows students all the people that have been affected by breast cancer and that it is a real disease that happens to everyday people.”
According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that one out of eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, but if caught early there is nearly a 100 percent rate of survival for the first five years.
“Some people think, ‘oh that will never happen to me’ or ‘oh it only happens to certain people,’ but the fact of the matter is that it happens to everyone it doesn’t discriminate based on race, gender, class — it affects everyone.”
Women are urged to perform monthly self-exams and receive annual mammograms to increase their chances of survival if cancer is found, according to the American Cancer Society.
“Students, staff should wear pink throughout the month in honor of those who have passed, not only to raise awareness but for our future,” Rogers said. “I know the event was a success because we donated the money to find a cure — every little bit helped, every effort and every pink shirt that was worn was boosting awareness. There was no failure only success.”