Usually when the month of
October comes around, the first think people think of is Halloween. Although the holiday itself is not celebrated
until the last day of the month, everywhere you go there is décor of pumpkins
and goblins. However, the month of
October is also known for raising social awareness for many different things
that affect our lives every day. For
example, did you know that the month of October is dedicated to AIDS awareness? It is also the month to raise awareness for
bullying prevention and dental hygiene awareness. I want to focus on three other observances
that are just as important but sometimes overlooked: breast cancer, domestic violence and pregnancy and infant loss
awareness.
Recognized by the infamous
pink ribbon, Breast Cancer Awareness month started in 1985 by the American
Cancer Society and a pharmaceutical company known for manufacturing several
cancer fighting drugs. According to www.breastcancer.org,
one out of every eight women develops invasive breast cancer. This disease is
no stranger to society. October is dedicated
to educating women about the disease and promoting early detection by reminding
women to get screened. Throughout the
years, science has learned more about the disease and how to fight it,
especially if detected early. This
month, join the cause to get the word out through various events: marathons, health fairs, mixers, or simply
just wear pink. If you haven’t scheduled
your mammogram for this year, do it now.
Remind a mother, a sister a friend.
Early detection can save your life!
Lately, the news has been
full of stories of domestic violence involving celebrities. What about the stories that we don’t hear
about? Domestic violence has been an
issue for decades and October is designated for awareness of this social
issue. The statistics of those that are
victims of domestic violence are disheartening.
Although mostly associated with women, more men are becoming victims of
abuse. This month, awareness is put
forth not only for people to know that the abuse exists, but for the victims to
know that there is help. According to
the National Domestic Violence Hotline, it is reported that 24 people per
minute are victims of domestic violence.
Imagine what the number would be if all instances were reported. People have to know that there is help. It starts with knowing if you’re a victim
first and then learning how to be a victor.
There are many resources for victims for healing and restoration
available. There is hope!
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness
month began with President Ronald Reagan when he made his proclamation in October
of 1988. Initially started to shed light
on miscarriages and still birth, over the years the month has included awareness
to infant loss due SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). It is said that there is no greater loss than
that of a child and the grief is unbearable.
During this month of awareness, parents and loved ones band together to
remember their babies and heal together as a community. With one in every three pregnancies ending in
loss, there are millions of people dealing with the emotional shock on a daily
basis with no knowledge of hope. Awareness
brings resources and outlets for families to learn to “live” after the
loss. Ronald Reagan said "When a child loses his parent, they are
called an orphan. When a spouse loses her or his partner, they are called a
widow or widower. When parents lose their child, there isn't a word to describe
them." This month, let us remember not only
the babies but the parents and loved ones.
When the month is over and
all of the social events have ended, the causes will still remain. Don’t hide breast cancer awareness in the back
of your mind until next year. Don’t
ignore signs of domestic violence in your life or a loved one’s life until it
is too late. Don’t distance yourself
from others after a loss of an infant.
In all of these situations, there is help. For more information, visit these sites
below.
Breast Cancer
Domestic Violence
Pregnancy and Infant Loss
If you or someone you know
has had experience with breast cancer, domestic violence, pregnancy loss or
infant loss, I want to pray for you. Email
me at info@mendingmaria.com
Mending
Maria
