October is a month filled with the crispness of fall, football, vibrant colors of changing leaves, and the excitement of Halloween here in the U.S. As the temperature drops and pumpkin-flavored treats start to appear everywhere, it’s a time to embrace cozy moments and outdoor adventures. For many, October is synonymous with fun and tradition, but it also carries a much deeper significance—it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Amidst the joy of the season, it's important to take time to reflect on the fight against cancer, and the brave individuals who face this disease. 

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and in the U.S., the statistics are staggering. Each year, over 250,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States, over 300,000 are projected in 2024 and 42,000+ women lose their lives to the disease annually according to www.cancer.org, www.cdc.gov, and www.komen.org. While treatments and early detection have greatly improved over the years, these numbers remind us that the fight is far from over. Behind each statistic is a mother, sister, friend, or daughter who faces a battle that no one should have to endure alone (including men). As we celebrate October's festive moments, it’s important to keep these women and men in our hearts and minds.

One of the ways to support breast cancer awareness is through organizations like Susan G. Komen (https://www.komen.org), which has been instrumental in raising both awareness and funds for breast cancer research. Through their initiatives, they’ve raised over $2.9 billion for breast cancer research, community health, and advocacy. Thanks to their efforts, millions of people have access to breast cancer education, screening, and treatment. The organization has played a significant role in advancing research that has helped improve survival rates, making strides in early detection and treatment options and inspired this cancer survivor blogger to give back.

Though October is dedicated to breast cancer awareness, we know that people are suffering from all kinds of cancer throughout the year. The NFL acknowledges this reality with their charitable initiative, NFL Crucial Catch (https://www.cancer.org/about-us/our-partners/nfl.html) which aims to raise awareness and funds for multiple types of cancer. Through partnerships with the American Cancer Society, NFL Crucial Catch focuses on early detection, education, and risk reduction for various cancers, including breast, colorectal, cervical, and prostate cancers. This initiative is crucial because it emphasizes that cancer doesn't just affect one group—it touches everyone. 

Giving, when and if you can, not only helps fund research and provide support for those battling these diseases but also creates a sense of purpose and connection. It allows us to feel part of something larger, to share hope, and to drive change in a fight that so many are facing. Whether it’s a small donation or larger fundraising effort for any cancer fighting cause like St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org), every bit of support makes a lasting impact.

So, while we enjoy the changing leaves, pumpkin patches, and football games, let’s also take a moment to think about everyone impacted by cancer this year and be kind because you do not know what strangers are going through. October’s dual focus on fun and awareness creates an opportunity for us to embrace both joy and empathy, celebrating life while remembering to fight for a cause that affects so many.

If you are inspired by this blog and would like to let someone know you are thinking about them, please feel free to share this article and visit our Etsy Shop: Thrive Vibe Creations for meaningful gifts, decor and apparel, such as our fighting cancer gift ideas or simply search through our store for a variety of inspiring and fun selections. 10% of all sales will go to Susan G. Komen this month. 

Kat at Thrive Vibe Creations 

ThriveVibeCreations.com