By Dakeia Goodman

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is recognized internationally through the month of October.  People all over the world wear pink throughout the month to show their support for all of those who have been affected by breast cancer. Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control forming a type of cancer. According to breastcancer.org, an estimated 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S in 2020. Many people don’t realize that men can get breast cancer, although it’s rare. About 1 percent of all breast cancer cases in the U.S occur in men. 

Each year at Stratford, several clubs get together to sponsor Pink Week.  The money raised through sales of pink items such as t-shirts, spirit items, and bake sales is donated to a local organization dedicated to helping breast cancer patients.  There will not be a Pink Week this year because of covid-19 guidelines.  We continue to show our support to the cause and will be dedicating October 23rd as Pink Out day at Stratford. Everyone is encouraged to wear pink to school and to the Knights football game that evening.

There are many ways you can show your support this month.

• Wear pink! The pink ribbon symbolizes your support to those fighting cancer and hope for finding a cure.
• Make a donation to a loved one, a survivor, or to those who are still struggling with cancer.  Many charities and organizations focus on research, support, and education, while others provide direct assistance and medical treatment for those who find it difficult to afford.  Do research to find the organization that you feel comfortable donating to.
• Volunteer your time to an organization.
• Educate yourself (and others).  Do research and spread awareness by telling friends and family how important it is to get mammograms.