October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I lost both my mother and sister to breast
cancer – my mom (Vivian Ellingson Johnson) in 1974 at age 62, and my sister
(Wanda Johnson Iverson) in 1988 at age 51.
Fortunately, the survival rate of women diagnosed with breast cancer
continues to increase. Redbook magazine has just published an
article, "Who Gets Breast Cancer and Who
Survives?" crediting “focused research and awareness campaigns” with this
promising trend.
Everyone with access to a computer
can help women without financial resources to receive a free mammogram – a key
factor in early detection. I just
received this e-mail from a friend reminding me how easy it is to keep this
program going. Robin Fatla wrote:
“The Breast Cancer site is having
trouble getting enough people to click on their site daily to meet their quota
of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman. It
takes less than a minute to go to their site and click on ‘donating a
mammogram’ for free (pink window in the middle).
“This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors/advertisers use the
number of daily visits to donate mammogram in exchange for advertising.”
The web site where you and I can
click daily to support these free mammograms is:
www.thebreastcancersite.com
National Breast Cancer Awareness
Month has its own website as well: www.nbcam.com
There you will find links to “Patient Services” (Newly Diagnosed,
For Survivors, Find Support, Patient Assistance, among others); “Disease
Information” (including Inflammatory Breast Cancer, Male Breast Cancer,
Clinical Trials and Dispelling the Myths.)
Two other information-packed sections include “How to Help” and
“Newsroom” with links to events and media contact.
Hundreds of individuals and organizations are doing their
part on the Worldwide Web to promote Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I even found a network of women working out
of their homes who have devoted space on their website to help stop the spread
of this insidious disease:
http://www.internetbasedmoms.com/ Follow their link to "breast-cancer-awareness/prevent"
The following excerpt is from a recent White House
proclamation:
“Breast cancer is the second leading cause of
cancer-related deaths among American women. During National Breast Cancer
Awareness Month, we renew our commitment to fighting this disease, raising
awareness, and supporting those affected by breast cancer.
"Research has shown that several factors may increase the
risk of developing breast cancer, including family history, age, genetics, and
obesity. By making healthy lifestyle choices and exercising regularly,
individuals can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Mammograms,
regular self-exams, and clinical breast exams are also vital because they can
help doctors diagnose cancer before it has a chance to spread. When breast
cancer is detected early, treatment is more effective, giving hope to patients
and helping save lives.
“My Administration is committed to strengthening our
Nation's efforts against this devastating disease. Earlier this year I was
pleased to sign the "National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection
Program Reauthorization Act," which will allow us to continue helping low
income and uninsured women gain access to vital cancer screening. In order to
best detect and treat breast cancer, Federal agencies are collaborating with
national organizations, State health agencies, and other key groups to promote
important disease education and prevention activities. Our Nation leads the
world in medical research, and through the dedicated efforts of thousands of
Americans, we can build a healthier and more hopeful future for our citizens.
“During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we remember
those living with breast cancer and their family and friends who provide them
with love and support. Their courage and determination are an inspiration to us
all. We also recognize the innovative, lifesaving work of doctors, researchers,
and other medical professionals. Through their efforts to prevent, detect, and
treat breast cancer, they are helping make a difference in the lives of our
citizens. Until we find a cure for breast cancer, we will continue our Nation's
fight against this disease.”
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2007/09/20070929-2.html
