How You Can Be A Part of the Breast Cancer Awareness Movement

Since 1985, it has been customary to observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month every October. Initially started by the American Cancer Society and pharmaceutical company Imperial Chemical Industries Pharmaceuticals (now part of AstraZeneca), the campaign aimed to broaden people’s understanding of breast cancer as the most common cancer affecting women globally. It encouraged early detection and prevention as well as raised funds for further research, an effort that has now extended to the rest of the world—including the Philippines, as you very well know. It’s hard not to notice how October turns into #Pinktober!

According to the Department of Health, breast cancer has become the third leading cause of cancer deaths among Filipinos in 2020. As women, it is important to lead by example and practice breast self-examination and support the Breast Cancer Awareness movement and other women in their journey to wellness. Here’s a list of the different organizations you can extend your help to!

Philippine Cancer Society

Since 1956, the Philippine Cancer Society has helped Filipinos cope with cancer by collaborating with organizations, communities, schools, and companies to bring lectures on cancer to wider audiences, which usually involve free breast, cervical, or prostate cancer screening for attendees. They also cater to patients by providing individualized assistance to access quality treatment. You can donate in cash or cheque or volunteer to support their programs. For more information, visit philcancer.org.ph

ICanServe Foundation

As one of the widely recognized organizations promoting Breast Cancer Awareness, they are constantly looking for survivors, relatives of patients, doctors, and caregivers who can lend their voices during forums or volunteer during events and other activities. You can make a general donation or become an Associate Member by paying an annual fee to support the foundation. In return, you can enjoy perks and privileges from ICanServe partners and sponsors! For more information, visit icanservefoundation.org.

Philippine Foundation for Breast Care, Inc. (Kasuso Foundation)

Colloquially known as the Kasuso Foundation, this non-stock, non-profit, volunteer-based organization is one of the country’s leading institutions who mount Boobie Programs such as educational campaigns, emotional counseling, and access to affordable medication and supplies, and many more. Apart from volunteering or donating to the cause, you can also get in touch with them to get your community involved in raising awareness for breast cancer. For more information, visit kasuso.org.

The Carewell Community

Established in 2005 by couple Bobbit and Jackie Suntay, this non-profit foundation provides free resources and services to persons living with cancer. Headquartered in the US, the Philippines became their first Southeast Asia affiliate in 2007. Today, they are the largest community-based support organization internationally. You can serve as a volunteer, donate to help fund projects, or provide free or discounted professional services. For more information, visit carewellcommunity.org.

Stage Zero by Project Pink Support Group, Inc.

Also associated with The Carewell Community, Project Pink assists in the dissemination of cancer information and educating people about cancer. While originally envisioned to cater only to women, they have now grown to accommodate both men and women battling different cancers. Today, they still provide emotional support to survivors and their families throughout their journey. If you want to get involved in their group, get in touch with them through Facebook. For more information, visit stagezero.ph.

For the rest of the month, you can also join Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities to support the cause! Below is a list of upcoming events you can participate in until the end of Pinktober:

Bikram Karma for Breast Cancer

October 16, 9AM

Now in its fifth year, Bikram Yoga Manila QC’s annual class in support of the ICanServe Foundation is pushing through via Zoom. Wear pink to practice and ₱100 will be donated! Send a direct message on Instagram for details!

#JoinTheBoobment

October 21, 6PM

Take part in Avon Philippines’ livestream and do a breast self-examination with other women to learn more about breast health and join the fight against breast cancer. Tap Going on Facebook now!

Let’s Promote Early Detection! by Krispy Kreme Philippines

Until October 22

Get a mammogram until October 22 and get a free Pink Ribbon doughnut from Krispy Kreme when you present your proof of check-up at select stores. A portion of the proceeds for sales of the Pink Ribbon doughnut and Pink Strawberry Float will also be donated to the ICanServe Foundation. For more information, visit Krispy Kreme Philippines’ official Facebook page.

9 Lives We Will Survive: I Can Dance. I Can Serve. 9th Edition

October 24, 3PM

Get your dancing shoes on because the pandemic isn’t going to stop this advocacy! Join the Zynchornized Concept’s virtual Zumba party whose proceeds will also be donated to the ICanServe Foundation. To register, sign up using this form and read more about the event on Instagram!