PINK-TOBER 2018

It’s finally October!

Along with the colors of fall - such as red and orange - there also comes pink. Pink is used as the international symbol of breast cancer awareness from October 1st to October 31st. National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual international health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities every October to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure. Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer that affects women. Statistics say about 1 in 8 women born in the United States today suffer from breast cancer.

The campaign originated in Texas in October of 1983, where “Race for the Cure” had around 800 participants. With a wide variety of participants every year, this campaign comes with just as many different meanings for each individual. For some, it’s about educating and making everyone around them aware about the realities of breast cancer; for others, it’s about celebrating strength and survival. Other than fundraisers and donations, there are numerous ways to contribute. One could ask doctors and nurses to speak to women about the importance of getting screened for breast cancer. In addition, people can encourage women ages 40 to 49 to talk with their doctors about when to start getting mammograms.

On October 19th, Newington High School showed its support for the cause by wearing pink and purchasing pink ribbons, all of the proceeds going toward cancer research. Every fall sport has a “Pink Out Day” where they wear their pink jerseys and go with the slogan “Play for the Cure.”

Way to go NHS in supporting such a worthy cause! Continue to make a difference, spread the word, and fight for the Cure!

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