Breast Cancer is an ongoing health issue for many women and their families today. Like many, I too have a personal connection to breast cancer. My older sister lost her battle to the disease over a decade ago. It was during the time of her diagnosis that I made a decision to do all that I could to better educate myself about the disease, and to advocate for increased research, resources, and dedicated solutions to support people living with breast cancer, and the communities that surround them.

 

 

In the last few years, there have been notable advancements made in breast cancer, but there is more to be done to address the emotional, social and physical challenges that people living with breast cancer face on a daily basis. That is why Komen Race for the Cure® events are so important. Each event helps to raise awareness – and most importantly, funds – for increased breast cancer research.

 

 

In an effort to promote breast health care and support Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I am participating in the 2018 Komen Tulsa Race for the Cure® in partnership with Valpak. The event will be held on Saturday, September 29, 2018 at River Spirit Casino Resort.

 

 

As the largest breast cancer organization in the U.S., Susan G. Komen’s goal to “reduce the current number of breast cancer deaths by 50% in the US by 2026” by doing the following:*

 

 

Research

•  Better detect, prevent and treat all breast cancers, especially deadly metastatic breast cancer
•  Increase access to and participation in innovative clinical trials
•  Fund the next generation of breast cancer researchers

 

 

Care

•  Improve access to quality breast health services by funding patient navigators
•  Provide underserved patients with low- or no-cost screening, diagnosis and treatment
•  Eliminate barriers to quality care by supporting lifesaving services like transportation, medication access and child care

 

 

Community

•  Eliminate disparities in breast cancer care and outcomes by addressing gaps in access and quality
•  Offer volunteer opportunities so that individuals and communities can match passion with movement.
•  Provide scientifically accurate information, support and compassion through the Komen Breast Care Helpline

 

 

Action

•  Advocate for research funding and access to affordable, high-quality breast health and cancer care services
•  Provide the public and elected officials with accurate, widely accepted breast cancer information
•  Gather survivors, those living with breast cancer, co-survivors and their communities together to honor, support and celebrate

*source: komentulsa.org

 

 

My plan for getting involved and participating in a Race for the Cure® event will expand beyond race participation. I will also encourage my friends, family, and followers in the Tulsa area to participate in the race as well. Additionally, I plan to connect with event attendees who are breast cancer patients and survivors to offer them a encouragement and support.

 

 

Statistics show that one in nine women are expected to develop breast cancer in their lifetime. I’m so excited to be a part of an event that will bring smiles and help lift spirits for those undergoing treatment, as well as breast cancer survivors and their families.

 

 

Be sure to stay tuned for my recap of the 2018 Komen Tulsa Race for the Cure® event!

 

This post is sponsored by Valpak

Breast Cancer Awareness Month