Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to get involved and show your support for those who are fighting for their lives. Here are some ways you can get your pink on in London this month.
Words Gabrielle Hernandez
Get Involved with Breast Cancer Awareness Month
While October brings pumpkin spice and chilly weather, it also welcomes the 25th anniversary of The Pink Ribbon. The dainty figure is backed by incredible power and is a symbol for millions of people affected by breast cancer.
WHAT TO KNOW
Breast cancer is the most common cancer to affect women in the UK. One in eight women will be diagnosed in their lifetime but, according to Cancer Research UK, the survival rate is on the rise. It is important to constantly be aware of any changes in your body. Whether that be by a self screening at home or a mammogram, it is a necessity to be informed and prepared.
There are preventative measures you can take, including looking for any signs of change. You should immediately see your doctor if you find any changes in skin, size, shape of the breast, have pain, or find a lump. Though it shouldn’t be cause for immediate panic, it is best to sort out the situation as soon as possible
WHO TO SUPPORT
CoppaFeel!
When Kristin Hallenga was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 23, she didn’t realise that the disease could affect young people. Ever since then, she has been dedicated to educating youth about what to look for. Her proactive lifestyle led to Coppafeel!, a charity aimed towards spreading awareness that breast cancer isn’t just something that happens to women over 50. This is the first breast cancer charity in the UK established to create awareness amongst younger generations. They work hard to campaign across the country, sharing materials and services to reminding young people to check their breasts or pecs regularly.
Coppafeel! Is hosting their 8th annual Festifeel. Featuring an amazing lineup of performers and speakers, the event aims to raise money to keep their educational materials available to the youth of the UK. Check out comedy acts, poetry, Q&A’s, as well as all day musical performances headlined by Busted. The event takes place 14 October at House of Vans, so get your tickets now.
Breast Cancer Now
According to the UK’s largest breast cancer research charity, every 45 minutes, another woman will die from the disease. Breast Cancer Now is fighting to change that statistic. They are dedicated to funding research to find a cure for this devastating disease. Their goal is that by 2050, everyone diagnosed will be a survivor. With over 400 researchers across the UK and Ireland, they are working to discover preventions, early detection and effect treatment methods.
This October, Breast Cancer Now is encouraging people across the country to dig out their pink uniforms to fight against breast cancer. Their flagship fundraiser, Wear It Pink, takes place on 20 October and encourages supporters to ditch their everyday garb and join in union with coworkers, students and friends to raise money for research. By signing up for the nationwide fundraiser, you will receive your own fundraising pack to help get you started.
Breast Cancer Care
This UK wide charity provides not only information, but also care and support to those affected by breast cancer. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, all funds raised will help them continue their vital free services for patients. Their services encompass the entirety of the process, from pre to post-treatment. They allow cancer patients to speak with a nurse to gain trusted information, a friendly forum to meet others in similar situations, or joining an after-treatment course. Their goal is to help make those dealing with the disease feel more in control.
WHAT TO BUY
UK & Ireland Breast Cancer Campaign Beauty Box
Estée Lauder
In 1992 Mrs. Evelyn H. Lauder co-created the international symbol for breast cancer awareness: The Pink Ribbon. To celebrate its 25th anniversary, they are featuring a limited edition beauty box to help fund the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the world’s largest private funder of breast cancer research. The box unites some rockstar brands, such as Clinique, Origins, Bobbi Brown, Bumble and bumble, Smashbox and GLAMGLOW. They all have come together in their support of the Estee Lauder mission of defeating breast cancer through education and medical research.
Crème de la Mer
La Mer
A limited edition jar of the brand’s iconic crème has been released in support of breast cancer research. Crème de la Mer has the power to transform your skin, improving firmness, fine lines and wrinkles, as well as minimising pores. Look renewed and rejuvenated while knowing £19.50 from the purchase price will be donated in support of the Estee Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Pink Blush Collection
ghd
The hair experts at ghd have worked in collaboration with global breast cancer charities for 13 years now. They have raised over £10million and are continuing the tradition. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, ghd has released their Pink Blush Range featuring a Platinum styler, Air hairdryer and paddle brush. A donation will be made to Breast Cancer Now for every one of ghd’s pink blush makeover product sold: £10 for the styler and hairdryer, £2 for the paddle brush. Look sleek and stylish while supporting others who are kicking cancer’s bum.
Pinstripe Bag
Fiorelli
In partnership with Breast Cancer Care, Fiorelli is launching a #CarryYourConfidence campaign. They are aiming to encourage all women to carry their confidence in the same manner with which they would carry their own handbag. The company has pledged to raise £75,000 over the course of the year to help Breast Cancer Care continue to support women through treatment and beyond. For each of their special pinstripe bags sold, £10 will be donated to the charity.
