Dollars That Make a Difference: Pink Products that Support Breast Cancer Awareness

As you probably know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast Cancer is the 2nd most common cancer in women and men worldwide. On a global scale, one in four cases of cancer in women is now breast cancer. By now, most people associate the pink ribbon with Breast Cancer Awareness; in fact, it’s been the official symbol since the early 90’s.

“Pink is the quintessential female color,” says Margaret Welch, director of the Color Association of the United States. “The profile on pink is playful, life-affirming. We have studies as to its calming effect, its quieting effect, its lessening of stress. [Pastel pink] is a shade known to be health-giving; that’s why we have expressions like ‘in the pink.’ You can’t say a bad thing about it.” Pink is, in other words, everything cancer notably is not. (www.thinkbeforeyoupink.org)

What you may not know is all the pink things you can put on, besides a ribbon, to support breast cancer research and awareness. According to the Estee Lauder Companies Breast Cancer Awareness campaign, each $50.00 donation translates to approximately one hour of lifesaving cancer research. From socks and scrubs to purses and pins, you can proudly wear your support for this cause. Even your pooch can get in on the fun! Websites like The Breast Cancer Site and The Pink Ribbon Store are specifically geared towards raising money through merchandise sales year-round. Other retailers, like Macy’s and Tory Birch, develop limited-edition products for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

And fellas, pink isn’t just for the ladies. Don’t forget, men can get breast cancer too. You too can shop for a cause – spiff up your suit with this bowtie, or show your support at the gym by donning a “real men wear pink” tee. Speaking of fitness, check out some of these sporty activewear and accessory options. There are literally thousands of products out there, some that are quite practical, that will help your dollars make a difference. We all get caught in the rain from time to time, so why not keep this umbrella handy? And what about office supplies? Everyone needs Post-Its!

While shopping for these products can be a lot of fun, don’t forget to “think before you pink” to make sure what you’re buying directly supports BCRA.

“The group recommends donors find out exactly what charities do with donations and whether that matches what donors want. For example…a little research might reveal that one breast cancer charity is paying for mammograms, another is funding basic research and yet another is spending little or no money on breast cancer programs. The advocacy group Breast Cancer Action has warned for years — in its Think Before You Pink campaign — that sales of some products adorned with pink ribbons raise no breast cancer money. Some proceeds from other products do go to charities. But the group says consumers should investigate those charities before buying.” (USA Today)

Pink not your thing? You can always just donate directly to a worthy cause that benefits breast cancer research and awareness. By wearing pink or sharing green, you can easily support the fight to cure breast cancer once and for all. Every dollar given, and every life affected, counts in this fight.

This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”