Each October, when you expect the orange and blacks of Halloween to take over, it’s a welcome surprise to see the world blush with PINK, as it brings attention to Breast Cancer Awareness as a sign of unity and it’s working! Thanks to this widespread awareness campaign, more people are getting screened earlier, diagnoses are happening sooner, and survival rates are improving. This isn’t just in other places, but in our places too! Vermont and Orleans County have seen improvements since the pink ribbons of the world started emerging, proof that the pink is working!
Breast cancer gets a lot of press and attention and that’s likely due to the fact it’s still too prevalent. Vermonters know this to be true because our data at www.healthyvt.gov, from the Vermont Department of Health (VDH) follows this closely and shares that it’s the most common cancer among women in Vermont, making up about 30% of all new cancer cases. VDH also shares that there is good news to be found, with the five-year survival rate for breast cancer in Vermont coming in at over 90%. These are strong indicators that early detection and improved treatment options are making a real impact. In Orleans and Essex Counties, where access to healthcare can be more rural and limited, we are lucky to not be limited when it comes to opportunities for screenings and diagnostics, thanks to North Country Hospital (NCH) which plays a crucial role in reaching and educating residents, prevention and screenings.
This October, NCH is proudly going PINK and not just with ribbons and shirts, but with action and education. Every Wednesday, employees will sport pink to show support and hopefully welcome conversations. They’ll also host their annual PINK Tennis Ball Trivia Scavenger Hunt for employees as well as their PINK Pumpkin Decorating Contest making breast cancer education interactive, fun and approachable. From encouraging employees to community members, NCH takes PINK seriously.
NCH Radiology is also hitting the road, bringing information to the community while still delivering top-notch care. On Wednesday, October 8th from 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM, everyone is invited to tour the Radiology Department, meet Dr. Rinehouse, and learn about screening tools in mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, including the latest equipment and advancements. There will be light refreshments, door prizes, and most importantly, honest conversations about breast health with the same team that cares for our community on their journeys.
What does PINK stand for? According to the National Breast Cancer Coalition (www.stopbreastcancer.org), the first breast cancer ribbon was introduced by activist and survivor Charlotte Haley in 1991 to highlight the need for more cancer prevention funding and was actually peach. It was when Estée Lauder and Self Magazine teamed up and wanted to use a ribbon for their awareness campaign, they opted for pink after Haley declined to collaborate. Once it debuted publicly in 1992, it became a global symbol of breast cancer awareness. Some people criticize the color choice or sales behind it, we think it’s a great acronym for remembering what everyone should know about breast cancer awareness:
- P – Prevention: How you treat your body, will be reflected in your health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, limiting alcohol, and exercising regularly are proven to support healthier outcomes. Get to know your risk factors, including genetics and family history.
- I – Information: Stay informed about screening guidelines. Most women should begin annual mammograms at age 40, or earlier with risk factors. Talk to your healthcare providers about what is best for you.
- N – Normalize: Normalize conversations about breast health. Talking about it can reduce fear and encourage early screening. Talk about mammograms or other prevention tools. The more we normalize taking care of ourselves, the easier it becomes to make this a regular part of everyone’s life and reduces fear.
- K – Knowledge is Power: The more we know, the better we can fight. Attend events, ask questions, and empower yourself and others with facts. No one body is the same and no one treatment or course of care is the same. Whether you are looking to support a loved one or just for your own prevention, learn what you can!
October is also a reminder that we can help! For those wanting to support local cancer patients directly, here at The Wellness Center we are offering two fundraising events with a healthy twist. All the funds donated will go directly to NCH Oncology and our local patients in need.
- Pause for Pink: A Journey Into Deep Rest – Wednesday, October 15th at 5:15 PM, A restorative yoga and yoga Nidra class led by Jana Parker. This is perfect for anyone looking to relax and reflect. Very little physical movement required.
- Pink Party: Drums Alive Fundraiser – Saturday, October 24th at 8:30 AM, get ready to sweat and smile during this high-energy workout event led by Mary Hoadley. No experience needed. All materials will be provided. Of course, prize for best pink outfit!
Are you going to go to pink this October? There are so many ways from the acronym, visiting the NCH open house, joining a fundraiser or even making your annual screening visits that can sync you into the pink craze and we believe it’s worth it! Why, because it works. This annual reminder is saving lives. For your neighbor, your coworker, your sister, or maybe even you, this month is a reminder that together we can work towards supporting each other, learning more and reaching better outcomes, which means longer and healthier lives. So this October, we invite you to go PINK with us! Wear pink, show up, speak out, and support your community. Help us keep momentum going, because when we go PINK, it works!