October is all about pumpkins, foliage, cider, and sweaters. It’s also Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is all about helping those affected by the disease, including sufferers, survivors, and their loved ones. Here are five local organizations going above and beyond the call of duty.
Making Strides of Westchester
Purchase
Breast cancer walks are happening nationwide all month long, and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer/Making Strides of Westchester, affiliated with the American Cancer Society, is hosting a walk at Manhattanville College on October 16. According to community managers Sarah Burke and Jodie Raff, “Our Westchester walk is the fifth largest walk in the country, and more than 19,000 people will join us again this year.” Sign up online at www.makingstrides.acsevents.org.
Support Connection
Yorktown Heights
For 20 years, Support Connection has been providing emotional support to women fighting breast and ovarian cancer, as well as their families and friends, through support groups and wellness workshops. “The peer counselors on our staff are cancer survivors themselves,” says Barbara Cervoni, director of services and communication. “They know what it’s like to have your life changed by cancer.” For more information, visit www.supportconnection.org.
Gilda’s Club Westchester
White Plains
“The range of emotions that cancer brings can be difficult, even when you are surrounded by loving and supportive family and friends,” says Melissa Lang, CEO of Gilda’s Club Westchester. The organization offers a number of support groups, as well as love, warmth, comfort, and people who truly understand. Visit www.gildasclubwestchester.org to learn more.
Corporate Angel Network
White Plains
As the only corporation in the US that offers cancer patients free air travel, Corporate Angel Network erases families’ worries over financing transportation for loved ones who need treatment. According to Executive Director Gina Russo, “The process is simple: Our staff does all the work to make patients’ travel arrangements.” Find out more at www.corpangelnetwork.org.
I Heart Boobs
By selling hats, tees, tanks, and more, I Heart Boobs promotes breast cancer awareness year-round. This month, the small business will raise additional funds for the cause with its annual fundraiser at New Rochelle’s NoMa Social. As owner Erica Prestwood says, “This event brings the community together to help raise money and awareness.” To show your support, purchase products on www.iheartboobs.org.
