The Men in Pink

Posted By Bethany Brooks, Esq.

“Why are all of the players wearing pink?” I remember asking my father about a decade ago. I was watching the National Football League as usual, but my appreciation for my favorite sport grew immensely that October afternoon. Like so many other organizations, charities, and fundraisers, the NFL chose to use its national platform to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month in true NFL style: by having 300-pound men wear hot pink during games.

When it comes to breast cancer, we are all on the same side. Across races, religions, ages, genders, and every other classification, everyone wants to find a cure. The best ways to do that are by donating money to research and treatment institutions, and creating further awareness.

October is the unofficial start to the “giving season,” as a majority of charitable donations are made from now through the holiday season at the end of the year. When choosing a place to donate, do some preliminary research to make sure that your donation is going directly to the cause. You can also donate your time by volunteering!

While giving money is important, raising awareness is even more so. I mentioned that there are several huge organizations that already fight to raise awareness about breast cancer, but you, personally, can help too. Discuss breast cancer with others, get informed, volunteer, and please – men and women – get regular screenings. You can visit www.nationalbreastcancer.org to learn more about free screenings, and where to donate or volunteer.

October is an important month, as the societal conversation turns to breast cancer awareness. This giving season, consider giving part of yourself, whether it is your time, your money, or simply your voice.