#GoPinkLemonade
Photo Courtsey Tallahassee Democrat
The Tallahassee Democrat, along with Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare, will host #GoPinkLemonade stands on Thursday throughout the city to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer disease is expected to affect close to 60,000 new patients in 2015.
Venues like The Edison and Madison Social commemorate the cancer campaign with fun, pink treats for their customers. The Edison created a drink called Rosewater Pink Lemonade, and Madison Social created a pink lemonade popsicle for their menu in an effort to support #GoPinkLemonade.
Florida State University’s President John Thrasher is expected to participate in the event by operating a #GoPinkLemonde stand on the school’s campus.
Although these efforts are light-spirited and can be enjoyable, the real goal is to provide Tallahassee residents with vital information that is helpful in the early diagnosis and treatment stages of the ailment.
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation,“October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease. While most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget to take the steps to have a plan to detect the disease in its early stages.”
Florida A&M University Student Health Services will participate in the campaign this year as usual by helping to raise awareness of the disease and educating students, faculty and staff. They plan to speak to students in campus residence halls about breast cancer, and give live demonstrations on breast self-exams. Pamphlets, shower cards and other material for learning will also be provided.
Tanya Tatum, M.H.A., the director of FAMU Student Health Services explained that breast cancer does not discriminate against gender.
“It is not just a disease that affects older women, but it can happen to young women and to men. It is important that our students know that it can touch any of us,” said Tatum.
Although mammograms are not offered, FAMU clinic plans to remain open late on four evenings during the month to offer clinical breast exams to students.
One important fact about breast cancer that should be duly noted is the imperativeness of early apprehension. When breast cancer is detected early, in the localized stage, the five-year relative survival rate is 100 percent, according to the American Cancer Society.
#GoPinkLemonade has the city and county officials competing in a friendly competition.
All proceeds collected from the #GoPinkLemonade stands will be donated to the Joanna Francis Living Well Foundation.