By Julianne Kwan, ’30

Staff Writer

Every ribbon tells a story. Some are stories of victory, whether earned from a spelling bee, sports, or a local fair. Others carry a deeper meaning. A pink ribbon is one example. It’s the ribbon of breast cancer awareness. The pink ribbon tells a person’s story. It’s the tale of their life and how they were affected by this disease. But beyond just being pink, what does breast cancer awareness actually mean, and why is it so important?

The pink ribbon symbol is recognized all over the world, and yet the disease itself is not always well-understood. According to the American Cancer Society, “Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the breast. It starts when cells begin to grow out of control. These cells usually form a tumor that can often be seen on a mammogram (x-ray of the breast) or felt as a lump.” Learning about this disease can not only spread awareness, but also lead to earlier detection. Since October was designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the late 1980s, rates of death from the disease have dropped 44 percent, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. These profound results illustrate that when we raise awareness, we save lives.

However, breast cancer awareness goes way beyond understanding the disease. It also means supporting those who have been diagnosed, and acknowledging the many that have lost their lives. This disease affects 1 in 8 women in their lifetime, according to the NBCF. That’s one person diagnosed every two minutes in the U.S. Moreover, for many people, a breast cancer diagnosis is more than a change in physical health. It brings fear, anxiety, depression, anger, and a feeling of loneliness. Giving support and offering to be a listening ear can improve their lives significantly.

Millions participate in Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This includes volunteering at support groups, posting educational content, and participating in walks and runs. However, the most recognizable way of supporting is wearing the color pink. Something as simple as wearing a pink ribbon can enlighten a conversation and encourage people to learn more. Fundraising and donations can also contribute greatly by providing money for research and improving treatments for those affected. Donations are important, regardless of size, because they aid a much bigger project to combat the disease.

Overall, breast cancer awareness is more than a color or a ribbon. It’s about learning, it’s about support, it’s about research, and it’s about hope. No single person has to do everything to make an impact. Every little conversation, act of kindness, and effort to learn more helps keep the cause moving. Every ribbon tells a story, but behind every ribbon is a person, and a reason why awareness matters.