Many families and organizations are celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Birmingham this October. Organizations like the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama and UAB’s O’Neal Cancer Center are teaming up with local businesses and people like you. They want to raise awareness and money to support breast cancer research through amazing local events.
Did you know that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime? The majority of breast cancers occur in women over 50 years old, but breast cancer can also affect men and young women. With breast exams, mammograms, and improved treatments, 60% of breast cancers are now detected in an early stage, and deaths due to breast cancer are declining. This is all great news, but there is still a lot of work to be done to increase early detection and save lives of those diagnosed with breast cancer. Here are some great ways that you can support this worthy cause.
Breast Cancer Awareness Events
October 1-31
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama is hosting a Pickled Pink Pickleball Challenge all month long. Join the fun by simply giving a donation. You can also raise more money for the cause by inviting friends and family members to play pickle ball and donate to the foundation per game played. Pickleball champions who donate over $50 will receive an exclusive t-shirt.
October 11
Cancer Awareness Network (CAN) Colors of Cancer 5k will hold its 10th annual fun run/ walk to support Cancer Awareness Network for Children. They strive to eliminate and diminish some of the fears associated with cancer for people of all ages. Since its inception, CAN has served over 500 cancer survivors and their family members. This fun event begins at 9 a.m. in Adamsville, AL. Register online by October 7.
Jeepin’ for a Cure in Alabama supports the Alabama Breast Cancer Research Foundation at McSweeney CDJR in Clanton on October 11 from noon- 6 p.m. Jeepers and Jeepers at heart can enjoy a “Show N’ Shine” show, trunk or treat, raffles, food trucks, and more.
October 17
Calera Goes Pink Football Game is a home game against Spain Park. Fans are encouraged to wear pink to cheer on Calera High School and support breast cancer awareness and research.
October 19
Charlotte Dawson’s 1 Mile Fun Walk and Run to support breast cancer research is at Patriot’s Park in Alabaster from 2:00- 5:00 p.m. Register online and wear pink!
October 25
Walk Where You Are MORE THAN PINK Walk hosted by Susan G. Komen Foundation is a virtual walk that you can participate in from anywhere.
October 26
The 13th Annual Homewood Witches Ride supports UAB’s O’Neal Cancer Center. Your kids will enjoy the Fall Festival in Homewood Central Park, starting at 2:00 p.m. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., over 500 witches will ride their bikes through Homewood as they celebrate cancer survivors. Register online to ride.
October 30
Calera Goes Pink Golf Tournament at Timberline Golf Club has a 1:00 p.m. shotgun start. Individuals and foursomes are welcome to register to play and support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama.
Purchase a speciality car tag
Placing a specialty car tag on your car or truck is a daily reminder of the importance of breast cancer screening and research. 100% of funds received go to local breast cancer research.
Start with yourself!
Breast Exams
Do monthly self breast exams and visit your gynecologist for an annual breast exam. If you or your doctor notice any new changes, imaging can help determine the next step.
Get an annual mammogram
Guidelines on the timing of mammograms differ by organization. Many physicians recommend getting a baseline mammogram at 35 years old and beginning annual mammograms at 40 years old. If you have a family history of cancer, your recommendations could be different, so talk to your doctor.
Know your family history
If you have a family history of cancer, you may qualify for genetic testing to see if you have inherited a gene, like BRCA 1 or 2, which can increase your risk of breast cancer and other cancers. If you do, your doctor can talk to you about screening and other preventative options.
