October is upon us. That means much of our world can turn pink. Pink shirts, shoes, bags, jewelry, hair... I could go on. Many people buy items to support breast cancer education and research. Educating yourself as to where your money goes can be important.
PUBLISHED September 24, 2019
Doris Cardwell received a life-changing diagnosis of inflammatory breast cancer in 2007. While undergoing treatment, she co-founded a mentor program for the cancer center treating her. She also created community events to educate, encourage and empower people regarding cancer. Doris was the first Survivorship Community Outreach Liaison for her local cancer center. She is an advocate, educator and encourager on issues facing cancer survivors. Doris is a wife, mother, empty nester, survivor of life and lover of all things coffee. An avid speaker and blogger, she is available at www.justdoris.com.
I was eating lunch at a local deli a few years ago. I needed water to drink. My eye went to a water bottle with a pink ribbon on it. "Support breast cancer research" it said. It was more expensive than another bottle, and much more expensive than a free cup. I bought the bottle with the pink ribbon, feeling pretty happy about doing my part. Sitting at the table eating, I saw a statement that changed my perspective. It said 1 cent of each bottle sold supported breast cancer research. A survivor myself, my funds were tight. I was livid that I paid more for the bottle of water with the ribbon than the other bottle or getting a cup and free water.
I felt duped. The next time the phone rang at home asking me if I would donate, I threw the person a curve ball. I asked what percentage of money raised on the call went to the organization. It was so minimal I had to sit down. I couldn't believe it was even legal. If you have never asked that question of any fundraising call that you get, my advice to you is that you should. The answer may astonish you.
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