Camellias dotting the Scripps College landscape are yet to bloom, but students are still seeing pink — the Breast Health Awareness campaign has arrived to bring education and empowerment (and ribbons) to the entire Scripps College Community.
Building on the success of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Scripps College has organized several events to unite everyone against one of the leading causes of cancer death among women. “The idea,” notes Suzanne Zetterberg, director of Malott Commons, “is to pique awareness about the importance of the early detection of breast cancer.
“One in every eight women runs the risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during her life,” says Zetterberg. “Although having a family member who had breast cancer may increase your own risk, the majority of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.”
Beginning with the “Power of Pink” Walk on Elm Tree Lawn the evening of October 15, Breast Health Awareness continues with a Breast Cancer survivor panel on October 21 at 12:00 noon in the Malott Commons Hampton Room. Martha Osborne, Breast Health Program nurse and educator, will moderate the six-person panel.
A breakfast celebrating breast cancer survivors concludes the campaign on October 29 at 8:00 a.m. in the Hampton Room. The continental meal is open to any who wish to attend. In the interim, the Motley Coffeehouse will feature drinks promoting health through preventative care, a student art show, and themed desserts and pastries.
“We’re lucky to have a support network of females who are dedicated to building strength through community and dialogue,” says Laura Benson ’10. “It’s time to show our support and solidarity for a cause that we can agree is a valuable one.”
For more information, contact the Malott Commons at (909) 607-8508.