Written by HRCap, Inc.
November 3, 2022
Origin of BCAM
Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) started in October 1985 when the American Cancer Society and a pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries entered into a partnership. The goal of BCAM is to promote mammography as the most effective method of fighting against breast cancer because early detection helps to increase the odds of survival. Since then many charities have come into fruition to increase awareness and raise funds for research into the causes of breast cancer, possible prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure.
Among these charities, National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) is one of the most recognized breast cancer charities in the world. NBCF has done exceptional work in its efforts against breast cancer. For example, since its founding in 1991, they have provided over 1.7 million breast health resources, over 192,000 mammograms, over 858,000 patient navigation services, and over 240,000 breast health education services to women in need. Due to the efforts of NBCF and other similar organizations, breast cancer death rates declined by 40% from 1989 to 2016 among women.
HRCap and Breast Cancer Awareness
To raise awareness of BCAM, HRCap joined and supported NBCF’s Rally in Sharing Everywhere (RISE) campaign, which provides a Community Sharing Calendar of activities to increase education and awareness of BCAM. As the campaign nears its conclusion, NBCF experienced an amazing turnout with more than 6,600 people pledged to schedule their mammography screening. Also, over 300 participants have shared posts of encouragement for current cancer patients and patient survivors on BCAF’s Wall of Support.
Many of our HRCap members took part in the daily RISE campaign activities by learning more about breast cancer, sharing resources on their social media accounts to raise awareness, honoring those who have been impacted by breast cancer, and even making donations.
In closing the campaign, we asked our employees about their experience and any takeaways they have from their active participation in RISE and BCAM initiatives.
Q. How did you feel as you participated in the different activities for the RISE for BCAM?
“As a cancer survivor, reading those heartfelt messages sent from people all over was so heartwarming. Life's journey is full of cracks and bumps but it’s definitely easier when you’re surrounded by strong and supportive people.”
~Doris C. (Executive Recruiter)
“Participating in the different activities for the RISE campaign allowed me to see the importance of bringing proper awareness to breast cancer. If more people are aware of the signs and symptoms earlier on, that means more lives could be saved. Each team member at HRCap acted similar to a community ambassador of BCAM, and our collective efforts helped me to reflect on the importance of support, outreach, and gratitude for health”
~Dania R. (Executive Recruiter)
"Through the RISE campaign, I have learned a lot about breast cancer, the importance of early detection, and how I can help by sharing health resources. It also showed me how powerful it is to proactively work with my team toward the goal of supporting and raising awareness of BCAM. "
~Jonathan L. (Digital Marketer & Content Writer)
Conclusion
HRCap is humbled to have participated in the RISE Campaign to collectively learn more about breast cancer, raise awareness, and encourage those afflicted by breast cancer. Through the initiative, we have realized how close this hit home for those within our company and developed greater empathy for one another.
We hope to continuously raise awareness and support the fight against breast cancer.
Source: HRCap, BrevardHealth Alliance, NBCF, American Cancer Society
========
Want marketing-leading updates on HR Trends, Recruiting Tips, and Career Advice?
Comments