Supporting the fight against breast cancer

All information taken from a press release provided by the American Red Cross.

Support the fight against cancer in October. Donate blood during Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Red Cross is asking all eligible donors to aid in the fight against cancer and donate blood and platelets. Cancer treatment often involves the aggressive use of potent drugs which kill healthy and cancerous cells. Blood and platelet transfusions can replenish lost cells during treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. These transfusions can be vital to a patient’s survival.

Breast cancer is the most common type of non-skin cancer in women. In 2006, approximately 213,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed. It is estimated that 13.2 percent of women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. An estimated 41,000 women will succumb to breast cancer this year. Without donations from generous donors, the Red Cross cannot provide the help they need.

“Cancer doesn’t care who it affects. Many people, whether it’s yourself or someone you know, have been touched by the devastation it causes,” said Jack Prause, CEO of the American Red Cross Blood Services. “One way to help is to become a regular blood donor or platelet donor. You can help ensure those with the disease will have the blood and blood products needed to fight cancer,” Prause said.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month was established in October 1985 as an effort to fill the public communication void regarding breast cancer. While America is more aware of the importance of early detection through mammography, cancer can still affect even the most prepared. The American Red Cross asks for the support of every eligible donor to celebrate anyone touched by cancer to take the time to donate blood or platelets throughout October. For more information about National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, visit nbcam.org.

Please make an appointment to donate at Monmouth College on Tuesday, Oct. 24 from 1 until 7 p.m. in lower level Stockdale. To make an appointment, call 309/457-3626 or go to www.givealife.org.