October is known as the month of pumpkin patches, Halloween costumes, and apple cider. And as fun and exciting as all of those things are, there is something else special about the month of October: It is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is a time to donate, support, and raise awareness for those who have survived breast cancer and those who are still battling it. It is also a time to remember and honor those who we have lost to this terrible disease. And by taking a look across all of social media, we can see all of the many ways people around the world are raising awareness for the cause.
According to BreastCancer.org, "About 1 in 8 US women (about 12.4%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime." That is a scary statistic and it is why awareness and support are so crucial. Many companies and businesses donate to breast cancer research this time of year, and supporting those businesses is always a good place to start. We can also donate on our own, for example check out the American Cancer Society's website. But one really simple way to show support this month is by "thinking pink." Whether it is in what we wear, what we eat, how we paint our nails, or even how we decorate our pumpkins, using pink is a common way to show that we care. And these gestures can be done at a child's school, at our workplace, or at fundraising events. Whether we have lost someone to breast cancer, know someone fighting, or just want to help be a part of the solution, it is so important to get involved. Here are 20 different ways that people from all over are "thinking pink" this month.
Pink Nails
Getting a pink manicure is a subtle way to show support. This nail design has breast cancer ribbons and some sparkle added to make it extra special.
Pink Work Uniforms
"It’s October so #Delta is going Pink in support of #BreastCancerAwareness," this flight attendant shared on Instagram. Even big businesses like Delta are tweaking employee uniforms to show support.
Pink Pumpkins
Because Halloween is also in October, some people decorate their pumpkins in pink designs to show awareness. These ones feature pretty gems and ribbons.
Pink Workout Clothes
Gym clothes or just clothes in general are a great way to show support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This pink tank says "hope" with a ribbon on it.
Pink Cookies
Snacks and desserts can also be made pink for the month of October. These sugar cookies look delicious!
Pink Hair
A lot of people add some pink to their hair to show support for breast cancer awareness. This woman got a gorgeous pink ombré.
Pink Dog Bandanas
Even our pets can rock pink and stand for the cause. This pup has on a bandana that is totally on point for this time of year.
Pink Flowers
"Once you choose HOPE anything is possible. For every Hope box sold, we will donate $12 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation," shared Texas-based flower shop Cadeau De Fleurs.
Pink Hair Ribbon
Cheerleaders, gymnasts, or dancers that typically wear bows could switch out their school colors for pink this month. We love how big and bright her hair bow is.
Pink Makeup
Beauty gurus can show support by trying pink makeup looks this month. This Instagram user did an awesome look with little pink ribbons on the corners of her eyes.
Pink Ribbons
Regular pink ribbons are a common way of showing support. They can be pinned on shirts or jackets and worn all month long.
Pink Bracelets
Bracelets can also be made or purchased to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This beaded bracelet is charming!
Pink Tutus
Some people even wear pink tutus during October! This head-to-toe pink ensemble is super fun and supportive — perfect for an awareness walk or event.
Pink Tie
Fellas can get in on showing their support, too. This man wore a stylish pink tie to work.
Pink Ribbon Socks
Even socks can be a small way of representing the cause. Especially if buying them supports breast cancer research.
Pink Cupcakes
Cupcakes are a sweet treat that can show support for breast cancer. Certain places are selling pink cupcakes and donating the profits. Or for someone who is a baker, make some cute cupcakes and donate the profits.
Pink Art
Those who enjoy drawing or painting can express their support through art. This illustration for breast cancer awareness is beautiful.
Pink Balloons
Pink balloons can be placed outside of a home or fundraising event to show support. These ones even have the symbolic ribbons on them.
Pink Lights
During October, many buildings and businesses put up pink lights. This is the Empire State Building lit up in New York City.
Pink Sporting Equipment
Even sports equipment gets the pink treatment for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. These hockey skates and stick are a really cool idea for athletes.