Action Breast Cancer, an Irish Cancer Society programme, is urging people to support its Pink Ribbon appeal tomorrow (Friday ) which is Breast Health Day by buying a ribbon, badge or keyring.
The money raised will go towards the development of services at Action Breast Cancer. It provides free help and support for people concerned about breast health or dealing with breast cancer.
Pink Ribbon Day raised €594,033 last year - Galway people raised €19,138. This year ABC is hoping to raise even more money for people living in Co Galway who have been affected by breast cancer.
Some 2,840 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in 2008 - the latest year for which figures are available. It is estimated that women have a one in 10 chance of developing the condition during their lifetime. Eighty per cent of women with breast cancer in Ireland survive for five years or longer.
Jill Clark, the head of fundraising at the Irish Cancer Society, says buying a ribbon can make a big difference.
“ Just €50 can cover the cost of five calls to the National Cancer Freefone Helpline 1800 200 700, which offers crucial one-to-one support and information to anyone affected by cancer. The support of the community on Pink Ribbon Day is vital to the success of this invaluable fundraising event.”
Items on sale for Pink Ribbon Day 2010 include pink ribbons (€2 ), badges (€2 ), and pink ribbon trolley key rings (€4 ).
Pink Ribbon Day is the Society’s biggest fundraiser for Action Breast Cancer. Each year it reaches more than 25,000 women concerned about breast cancer and breast health. ABC’s mission is to ensure that everyone affected by breast cancer receives the highest standards of treatment, support and care, and to improve the quality of life of people living with the condition.
For more information call the national cancer helpline on Freefone 1800 200 700.
