No “Pink Washing” Here!
Well, it’s happening. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is coming up and companies all over are slapping the pink ribbon on everything from dog collars to coffee cups. All major retailers will ask you to “Think Pink” as they play on your sympathies and collect donations.
BUT DOES IT ACTUALLY HELP?
Honestly, I don’t know. I do know though that there are significantly better ways to help support the cause, ways that directly benefit breast cancer survivors and different areas of research. So without further adieu, I’d like to request you check out some of these great organizations before you cave and buy a pink pair of socks under the guise of contributing to breast cancer supports.
(Some) Options To Support
THE TRUTH about breast cancer is the financial burden can be just as devastating as the physical and emotional impact. That's why we provide financial assistance to patients who are living in poverty while in treatment. We bridge the gap between the financial reality faced by breast cancer patients and the limited financial assistance available.
The funds we raise, directly support breast cancer patients.
We encourage you to Donate Today – every donation has a significant impact on a very vulnerable community.
WELLSPRING
At Wellspring, you will find a range of programs designed to help provide connection and belonging, ease physical pain and emotional distress, build strength and mobility, and reduce fatigue. Specialized financial, workplace, counselling and other cancer-related supports are also available.
Wellspring programs are available across Canada online, and through centres in Ontario and Alberta, all at no charge, and without referral.
Pink Pearl Canada
Pink Pearl was conceived by ovarian cancer survivor Elise Gasbarrino. While undergoing cancer treatment in her early twenties, Elise felt certain elements were missing from her experience—a way to connect with women her age facing the same issues, and a means for them to conquer their issues together. Her vision transformed into Pink Pearl, a charitable organization made up of a small team, focused on bringing together young women affected by cancer through a network of peer support and innovative programs. The organization has successfully raised over $600,000 to date through reputable fundraising events initiatives, such as the Black & White with a Touch of Pink. Funds raised provide effective and fully-funded programming for self-identifying young women, between the ages of 18 and 40, battling cancer of any type. Continual programming for participants currently include virtual wellness retreats, learning series, local socials, one-on-one counselling sessions, support packages distributed in hospitals and cancer centres, and post-secondary scholarships.
The Camisole Project
The “The Camisole Project” was founded over 9 years ago to help women in our community going through surgery for Breast Cancer.
For the first few years we provided these women with a free, comfortable post surgical camisole with drain pouches, a heart shaped pillow and a compassionate ear to listen to their fears and concerns. As the years went on we expanded the Camisole Project to include a FREE Because.We.Care package with many helpful items in it to prepare these women for surgery.
Our partners in the community stepped forward to help us raise money each year so we could continue to offer this special package to women going through a devastating time in their lives.
Knitted Knockers of Canada
Knitted Knockers are special handmade breast prosthesis for women who have undergone mastectomies or other procedures to the breast. Traditional breast prosthetics are usually expensive, heavy, sweaty and uncomfortable. They typically require special bras or camisoles with pockets and can’t be worn for weeks after surgery.
Knitted Knockers on the other hand are soft, comfortable, beautiful and when placed in a regular bra they take the shape and feel of a real breast. Our special volunteer knitters provide these free to those requesting them. Knitted knockers can be adjusted to fill the gap for breasts that are uneven and easily adapted for those going through reconstruction by simply removing some of the stuffing.
Together we can in a simple, loving way bring a smile to women at a low point in their life.
Each Knitted Knocker is made with LOVE by our wonderful volunteers and are provide FREE OF CHARGE to any woman in Canada who is in need!
If you would REALLY like to purchase something that still contributes to Breast Cancer, I can personally recommend Tea With Tracie. Tracie does fantastic work to help support breast cancer research and awareness.
$5 from every pouch of Think Pink is donated to local programs & services supporting cancer warriors, and right now that money is being donated locally to Wellspring.
When In Doubt…
Support Your Local Cancer Centre or Directly Support A Breast Cancer Survivor!
While I go through breast cancer, our family has been lucky to have some great supports through our jobs, our families, and our fantastic friend group. That said, we are accepting some help as I will have a hard time working through the later stages of my chemotherapy and my surgery this December. Should you wish to contribute to our family directly, we have set up a small Amazon list as well as a Paypal Donate link.
