Easy ways to donate

I smile when I see Betty Boop sitting on the front of my local store since she is sporting a rather nice pink ribbon. It is so easy to get involved these days. The Breast Cancer charity and charity donations, in general, do not only include semi-damp volunteers rattling near empty collection tins on the street. It can take the form of a sophisticated range of clothing from Damart, a delicate pink ribbon-pin suitable for the professional female and a complete range of care products that drives the race for financial assistance.

And then, the internet came to the rescue. It is here that Breast Cancer charity donation efforts have really come into their own. In the past there were so many excuses to not get involved. “I cannot find the information” or “I put the flyer somewhere…” are no longer tolerated. The transformation is staggering. Supporters can create their own websites; drive their own campaigns and raise as much as possible to contribute. Even the charity shops have online representation. Donations online is as easy as saying “PayPal”.

The thing that makes my heart feel all fluffy and mushy inside is the fact that helping this cause is within reach of each and every person. Chefs, cleaners, housewives, children… everyone can get involved. This disease is neither shy nor selective. Kylie Minogue, Sheryl Crow, Cynthia Nixon and Christina Applegate can all attest to this. It is a known fact that women with a family history of breast cancer have a greater risk than the rest of the population. The good news is that more and more women are surviving because of fundraising efforts by the general public as well as the numerous breast cancer charity efforts. Scientists work hard, and will continue to do so, to improve the life of those who lives with the disease, and improve the methods used to treat it.

I would state as a matter of urgency that prevention is better than cure, and thus I wish to impress upon every woman how important it is to do regular self examinations. The earlier you catch the problem, the better the chances of survival. Become aware of your body and listen to that inner voice. It is rather disturbing if you consider that many women still don’t do this, mostly because they did not know how. Book a consultation with your GP and ask him or her to show you how to do this. It is easy and takes no more than 5 minutes.

Beyond that point, get involved and create awareness. Although there are so many ways to get involved, so much money to be raised, there are so many more women who don’t know how to get involved. Start by addressing the issue with your daughters AND sons; husbands and brothers. Although this matter is one that physically affect woman, one must never forget the pain and suffering of those around us. They too need to understand, and find a way to get involved.

As I load my trolley with a few well chosen “Tickled Pink” items, I look down at my own chest and smile at my ‘girls’. They were rescued by the men and woman who generously donated time, effort and money, and for this I am thankful.

Breast Cancer charity donations can make the difference, but only with your help!