Although death rates from breast cancer have been declining since about 1989, breast cancer is still the second leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer. Decreases are believed to be the result of earlier detection through screening and increased awareness, as well as improved treatment.
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama has raised nearly $4.5 million to support cancer research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Comprehensive Cancer Center. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the BCRFA and other organizations are hosting local events:
Sept. 19-Oct. 19: Calera Goes Pink!Join the City of Calera as it Goes Pink to support breast cancer research in Alabama. This citywide event kicked off with the Calera High School football game Sept. 19 and culminates with a golf tournament at Timberline on Oct. 19. For details or to get involved, call BCRFA at 205-996-5463.
Sept. 26: BCRFA’s Go Pink! T-shirt Sale
Held by the elevators in the North Pavilion at UAB Hospital from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., short- sleeved ($15) and long sleeved T-shirts ($20) will be for sale to support research and save lives.
Month of October: Pink Ribbon Project
Fire stations across the state will Go Pink! to support breast cancer research in Alabama throughout the month. Dozens of stations across the state will sell specially designed pink ribbon project T-shirts for $15 and $20. For a list of participating fire departments, visit www.bcrfa.org.
Month of October: Tameron BC Awareness Campaign
Tameron Automotive Group will donate $100 in support of breast cancer research for every car sold at Tameron Honda, 1675 Montgomery Highway, Birmingham, AL 35216, and Tameron Hyundai, 1595 Montgomery Highway, Birmingham, AL 35216.
Oct. 5: Center Point Fire District Breast Cancer Awareness Month Kick-off Event
Hosted by the Center Point Fire District from 3-7 p.m., festivities including live music, special guests, food and beverages will be held at Pinson City Hall. Free and open to the public.
Oct. 10: Angel Squad at Jim ‘N Nick’s
The Angel Squad of UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center will be available from 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at participating Jim ‘N Nick’s restaurants to promote breast health awareness. The volunteers will distribute informational brochures, pink ribbons and gifts throughout the day. The Angel Squad partners with groups and organizations throughout the community to encourage the importance of early detection and to raise funds for patient services at UAB.
Oct. 11: Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure
The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is the largest series of 5K run/fitness walks in the world. The local race will begin at Linn Park in downtown Birmingham. The survivor parade will be at 8:30 a.m., the 5K starts at 9 a.m., and the 1-mile fun run/walk is at 10 a.m., with awards ceremony at 11 a.m.
Oct. 11: New Light Support Group
In lieu of the New Light Support Group meeting, members of the support group will participate in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on Oct. 11, which will be held in Linn Park, downtown Birmingham. To join a team and help celebrate the life, bravery and the memory of survivors, contact Kimberly Robinson at 205-975-7912 or at krobinson@uabmc.edu. Team captains are Eva Carter, Ina Black and Kimberly Robinson.
Oct. 11: Uncorked! On the Green
The community of Ross Bridge in Hoover will host a free community event of sampling wine and beer. Wine tasting is from noon-2 p.m., and beer sampling is from 2:30-5 p.m. Valid ID is required prior to sampling. Donations will be collected to help fund research and save lives.
Oct. 12: Pink Private Shopping Night, Belk at the Summit
From 6:30-9 p.m., BCRFA and Belk will host an exclusive private shopping night. A $25 ticket includes complimentary food and beverages, live entertainment, fabulous door prizes, and the opportunity to shop with exclusive discounts at Belk. Tickets are available for purchase online or by calling BCRFA at 205-996-5463.
Oct. 16: Stompin’ Out Breast Cancer!
Get out for a great meal while supporting a great cause. From 5-9 p.m. at Texas Roadhouse in Pelham, 60 Drivers Way, Pelham, AL 35124, 10 percent of proceeds from sales from people presenting a BCRFA flier will go support breast cancer research. Contact BCRFA at 205-996-5463 to get fliers.
Oct. 22: Turn Trussville Pink Day
Each year thousands of people across Trussville participate in “Turn Trussville Pink” through a variety of unique events and special fundraisers benefiting the Audie and Kathy White Foundation. The funds raised are bundled together and donated to the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center. At its core, “Turn Trussville Pink” is about uniting the city of Trussville to fight against breast cancer. On Wednesday, Oct. 22, all members of the community are encouraged to decorate their homes, places of business and even themselves in pink attire.
Oct. 28: BCRFA Slice Dough Raiser Night
Slice Pizza and Brew is hosting a Dough Raiser. Help BCRFA raise some dough for breast cancer research at lunch or dinner time. Ten percent of proceeds from the event will go support BCRFA’s mission.