Every October there's a blush that falls over the shopping aisles. Your favourite lipstick comes in pink casing, there's pink tennis balls, pink deodorant, pink pens and diaries. While you may be sceptical about it, or confused by what it means, ultimately buying that product puts money towards breast cancer research and treatment.
As we all know, despite humidity, I cannot be prevented from wielding a hair straightener and a handful of sprays, serums and conditioners to make sure it's all glossy and Melbourne-Weather Proof (this is MWP Hair!). I love those images of classic film stars with hair rollers in and silk robes on (stiletto heeled slippers optional) so I went all Dolly Parton with the hair products and chose VS Sassoon Straight 2 Curl and Secret Curl Silicone pop-up rollers. Check out the video on how they work. And remember Dolly: The Higher The Hair, The Closer To God.
Read more about Vidal Sassoon Power of Pink Collection and their support for Breast Cancer Network Australia: Vidal Sassoon Power of Pink.
While I am incredibly lucky to not have experienced breast cancer nor had any of my nearest and dearest struggle with it, I know that it is incredibly confronting and scary for the woman and for her family and friends. BCNA were kind enough to ask Renee Gani to share her experience. They have also given us some information on awareness and resources. This is also an insight into where your dollars go when you choose to spend on pink products. So you can glow (pink) with pride.
The average age of women
diagnosed with breast cancer is 60. While breast cancer in women under 40 is
not common, it does occur, particularly where there is a strong family history
of breast cancer. It is important for women in their 20s and 30s to be aware of
the risk factors and to discuss any changes to their breasts with their
GP. While most breast changes are not due to breast cancer, it is
important to have them checked.
Melbourne mother of two Renee Gani says being diagnosed with breast
cancer young had a huge impact on her and those around her.
“I was 36 when i was diagnosed with breast cancer, before then it had
never crossed my mind that I could one day be going through this experience. I
was shocked and fearful of what the future held.”
“My loved ones were really rocked by my
diagnosis. My boys were 3 years old and 7 months at the time so there was
a lot happening already. But we all grouped together to stay strong,
my family and friends were my greatest support.”
With one in eight women expected to be diagnosed by the time they turn
85, breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting Australian women. This
year alone 15,600 Australian women and 145 men are expected to be diagnosed
with breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) CEO Christine Nolan says health
and wellness is an important part of staying well after a breast cancer
diagnosis.
“Exercise during and following breast cancer treatment has a number of
benefits, not only can it reduce the risk of breast cancer returning, but it
can also help to improve emotional and physical wellbeing.”
BCNA has a range of resources and programs which
provide women with reliable information and advice, and practical strategies to
help them improve their health and wellbeing. These include:
- Active and WellAfter Breast Cancer - BCNA’s pilot initiative funded by the Victorian Government, designed to help women improve their physical and emotional wellbeing following treatment for breast cancer. The initiative is designed to connect women with others in their local community who also want to take charge of their health and wellbeing and link women with local community-based programs and services to help them improve and maintain regular physical activity and healthy eating.
- The Breast Cancer and Exercise and Healthy Eating and BreastCancer booklets – two free information resources which include reliable and easy to understand information, and advice from women who have been through similar experiences.
- Personal Stories Section. Personal stories from women who have experienced breast cancer.
Renee says her diagnosis prompted her to take control of
her health and wellbeing and make positive changes to her lifestyle.
“My diagnosis put things in perspective. I made a conscious
effort not to sweat the small stuff, stay focused and just take is day as it
comes. Being active and aware of my diet has also become more important. Lots
of fruit and veg, water and nothing too sugary like lollies or soft drink. I
still can’t say no to chocolate every now and again though!”
“Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important time to
share my message to young women, which is to be breast aware, know your body
and check yourself regularly.”
If you or
someone you care about has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, contact
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) for a My Journey Kit, a free information resource for newly diagnosed
women - 1800 500 258 or www.bcna.org.au