Every action counts: The Estee Lauder Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign for 2015

Events

Sep 23

Early this year, someone whom I loved very much passed on because of breast cancer. It was already at stage four when it was detected but we hoped that it would be a long, possibly victorious battle. In two months though it was all over. I couldn't believe it! She was one of the most amazing people I've ever had the chance to meet. She would always encourage me and tell me that I can make anything possible. And then she was gone. If only I knew that the last time we met was going to be the last time, I would have...but no one really knows.

In recent years, breast cancer awareness campaigns have become somewhat controversial because they seem to trivialize the issue of breast cancer. This view is not helped by the fact that many beauty brands seemed to have jumped on the bandwagon; need a charity case? Breast cancer is trendy! I admit I have also become a little cynical to this point.

However, the death of my friend made me realize how dangerous a disease breast cancer is. It can literally sneak up on you even if you think you're healthy, even if you think you've done everything you can to be safe from it. I want to emphasize again the importance of getting yourself screened and detecting the symptoms earlier. The American Cancer Society offers up a lot of information which is easy to read as it is not so dense. I particularly found their overview on Breast Cancer Prevention and Early Detection useful, as well as their short manual on how to do a self-exam.

I know you guys are busy, but I hope you can do a quick self-exam and also encourage your friends and family to do the same. If you or anyone you know is over 40, go for a mammogram.

To further spread awareness and to gather funds for breast cancer, Manila Peninsula in partnership with Estee Lauder Philippines is currently holding a Kenneth Cobonpue curated art exhibit. Esteemed artists like such as BenCab, Elmer Borlongan, Impy Pilapil, Plet Bolipata, Ramon Orlina, and Cobonpue himself are exhibiting their works. On October 1, all pieces will be auctioned off and the proceeds will be donated to the Philippine Foundation for Breast Care, Inc. The funds will be used to rehabilitate the Breast Care Center of East Avenue Medical Center in Quezon City so that it will be able to accommodate and sponsor more patients.

Every action counts! You just might save a life, perhaps even your own.