But What to Do ?

It occurred to me whilst out walking my best little furry friend in the world, that it's all very well for me to spend my time ranting and raving about the pink ribbon movement,  but in doing so I fear I may be in danger of delivering a mixed message.

So let me just clarify and put my money (and possibly yours) where my mouth is.

I support anything that can truly make a difference in ending breast cancer.  I want my money going into research that will result in never having to talk about breast cancer ever again.  I don't want my money going into research unless it is addressing the fundamental question as to why breast cancer continues to be a mortal threat.  If we understand why, then we can address the root causes and there won't be any need for a holy grail cure.   I want my money going directly to a source that might ultimately save my life.  I don't want  my money going to yet another  "early-detection-saves-lives" education and awareness campaign.  Thanks pink-ribbon marketers for all that you have done on this score but I am aware as I think are most other people by now.  Call me selfish, but these kinds of campaigns don't help me nor the millions of other people out there who already have this dreadful disease, nor do they get us any further in understanding why people continue to be diagnosed.

So where will my philanthropy be going this year ?

1.  Breast Cancer Action whose mission statement states:


"Breast Cancer Action carries the voices of people affected by breast cancer to inspire and compel the changes necessary to end the breast cancer epidemic."
    
TO DONATE TO BREAST CANCER ACTION CLICK HERE

2. National Breast Cancer Coalition whose statement states:

"NBCC's mission is to eradicate breast cancer, the most common form of cancer among women in the United States, by focusing the administration, U.S. Congress, research institutions and consumer advocates on breast cancer. NBCC encourages all those concerned about this disease to become advocates for action and change. The Coalition informs, trains and directs patients and others in effective advocacy efforts. Nationwide, women and men are increasing the awareness of breast cancer public policy by participating in legislative, scientific and regulatory decisions, promoting positive media coverage and actively working to raise public awareness."


TO DONATE TO NATIONAL BREAST CANCER COALITION CLICK HERE


Obviously feel free to donate to any other organization of your choosing, but please, before you donate, read what Breast Cancer Action and Gayle Sulik have to say in evaluating where your hard-earned money should go.  Check out Gayle's blog entry, "Before You Buy Pink".