October is typically associated with the reds and yellows of the changing leaves of autumn or the orange and black of Halloween. Now, it’s also associated with pink.   October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, when pink reigns as the supreme color. Sometimes the color alone seems to dominate over the true cause of why we commemorate this month. Everyone wears pink sweaters, bracelets, and socks; even the NFL leads a huge campaign for breast cancer research by selling pink gear to players and fans alike. However, with all the hype of rocking the pink gear, the reason why we even wear pink is sometimes forgotten.

October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, has been around for almost 25 years and is widely recognized, especially in the United States. Nowadays, almost 1 out of 8 women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. The chance of breast cancer almost doubles when a first-degree relative such as a mother or sister has or has had breast cancer previously. Contrary to popular belief, breast cancer does not only affect women, but men as well. Unfortunately, by the time men develop and are diagnosed with breast cancer, it might be too late. According to breastcancer.org, almost 40,000 women will die every year due to breast cancer, which is the highest cause of death for women in the United States aside from lung cancer. It is truly sad to see breast cancer, or any kind of cancer, take away those we love and adore.  It is even sadder that there is no clear cut cure to this ailment.

Fortunately, there is so much one can do to make a difference,   not only by donating to fundraisers or charities that support breast cancer research, but also by being involved. Marathons and charity walks make huge contributions to research while also showing visible support to those fighting through it. The Morris Hills community is proactive in its support of Breast Cancer Awareness.   For example, copies of the district’s summer read, Believe were collected to donate to the local hospital’s breast cancer treatment center. Also, the girls’ volleyball team sponsors a “Dig Pink” game, while the annual Powder-Puff game donates its funds to breast cancer research.