The Pink Page: Breast Cancer Resources For Lansing & Michigan

Breast Cancer Awareness Month was created to bring attention to something that was often left in the shadows—breast cancer. It started in 1985 as a way to push for more awareness, encourage early detection, and get people talking about the disease openly.

Back then, people weren’t as vocal about breast cancer. Women, in particular, often dealt with it quietly, and there wasn’t much focus on prevention or screening.

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It’s a month to remind us all that breast cancer is something people are fighting every day and to keep pushing for progress until we’ve done everything we can to beat it.

Lansing Area Resources & Guides

Lansing has several resources available for breast cancer care and support, offering a range of services to help with treatment, recovery, and emotional well-being. Here are some key places to consider:

1. Sparrow Health System – Breast Health Center
   Sparrow’s Breast Health Center provides a full spectrum of services for breast cancer, including early detection and treatment options. Their facility offers imaging services like mammograms, ultrasounds, and biopsies, with a team of specialized doctors in areas such as oncology and radiology. They also provide counseling on genetic risks for those with a family history of breast cancer, as well as guidance on treatment optionsLocation: 2900 Hannah Blvd, East Lansing, MI
   Phone: (517) 364-9400
2. Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Greater Lansing
   This institute is part of a larger cancer care network and offers personalized breast cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. In addition to medical services, patients have access to nutritional counseling, emotional support, and survivorship programs to aid them throughout the process. The center takes a holistic approach to both physical and emotional recovery.Location: 401 W Greenlawn Ave, Lansing, MI
   Phone: (517) 975-9500
3. Michigan State University – Breast Cancer Prevention and Support
   MSU runs a program aimed at both supporting those with breast cancer and educating the public on prevention methods. They host workshops and offer group support services while also conducting research into new treatments and therapies in collaboration with healthcare professionals.Location: 909 Fee Rd, East Lansing, MI
   Phone: (517) 355-5113
4. Susan G. Komen Michigan
   The Susan G. Komen foundation has a regional chapter that provides financial assistance, education programs, and support groups for those impacted by breast cancer. They also host events to raise awareness and funding for breast cancer research, with a focus on helping individuals access care and resources.Website: komenmichigan.org

National Organizations:

1. Susan G. Komen
   One of the most recognizable names in breast cancer advocacy, Susan G. Komen leads efforts in research, community health, and awareness. They organize events like Race for the Cure and major fundraisers throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
2. American Cancer Society – Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
   The American Cancer Society’s Making Strides initiative holds nationwide walks and events to raise money for research, patient services, and breast cancer prevention programs. These events are especially prominent during October.
3. Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF)
   The BCRF is focused on finding a cure for breast cancer by funding breakthrough research. Each October, they collaborate with corporate sponsors and community partners to fundraise and spread awareness about the importance of continued research.
4. National Breast Cancer Foundation
   The National Breast Cancer Foundation provides free mammograms and educational resources to women across the country. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they ramp up efforts to ensure that women can access the screenings and support they need.
5. Avon Foundation for Women
   The Avon Foundation is well-known for its long-standing commitment to breast cancer causes. They host the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer and partner with other organizations to provide funding for research and patient services during October.

These organizations in Lansing offer a combination of medical care, community support, and educational resources to assist those facing breast cancer.

There are numerous businesses, organizations, and events that help collect funds during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, aiming to support research, provide patient care, and promote early detection. Here are some notable places that participate in raising funds:

Local Michigan-Based Fundraising Efforts:

1. Sparrow Health System Events
   Sparrow Health in Lansing holds community events and fundraisers, including their “Wear Pink” campaigns, which gather donations specifically for breast cancer awareness, early detection, and patient care programs.
2. Henry Ford Health System – Game on Cancer
   This Detroit-based health system runs a “Game on Cancer” initiative, where part of the funds raised goes toward breast cancer research and treatment. They hold special events in October to encourage donations.
3. West Michigan Pink Ribbon Rides
   These organized bike rides in Grand Rapids bring the community together to raise awareness and money for local breast cancer programs. All funds collected during October go toward support services and early detection efforts.
4. Zehnder’s Pink Night (Frankenmuth, MI)
   Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth hosts an annual “Pink Night” in October, where a portion of sales and donations are directed toward breast cancer research and support programs in Michigan.

National Fundraising Participants:

1. Susan G. Komen Events
   Susan G. Komen organizes national fundraising events like Race for the Cure and More Than Pink Walks. These events take place across the country in October and help raise millions of dollars for breast cancer research and support services.
2. American Cancer Society – Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
   This national program organizes walks and community events that happen nationwide throughout October. The goal is to fund cancer research, raise awareness, and support survivors.
3. Retail Chains
   Several national retailers get involved by selling special products with a percentage of proceeds going to breast cancer research. Some key participants include:
   • Target: Partners with various breast cancer foundations and sells pink ribbon merchandise in October.
   • Walmart: Often collaborates with breast cancer organizations to donate a portion of sales from select products.
   • Ulta Beauty: Runs fundraising campaigns and donates proceeds from certain products or services to breast cancer awareness efforts.
4. Avon Foundation for Women – Avon Walks
   Avon’s annual breast cancer walks, held in various cities, raise funds for breast cancer research and patient care. The Avon Foundation has long been a leader in breast cancer fundraising efforts.
5. The Pink Fund
   This national organization helps breast cancer patients cover non-medical expenses during treatment. They hold various fundraising events, and local businesses often support them during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
6. Yoplait – Save Lids to Save Lives
   Yoplait’s famous “Save Lids to Save Lives” campaign encourages people to collect and mail in yogurt lids, with the company donating funds for each one received during October.

Breast Cancer Events:

Here are several upcoming breast cancer awareness events across Michigan in October 2024:

1. Making Strides of Detroit Presented by Chevrolet
   • Date: October 12, 2024
   • Location: Downtown Detroit
   • Time: 9:00 AM
     This event, a signature walk for the American Cancer Society, aims to raise funds for breast cancer research and support services. Participants can walk, donate, or volunteer to assist in the event.
2. Making Strides of West Michigan
   • Date: October 19, 2024
   • Location: Grand Rapids
   • Time: 8:30 AM
     Held at Rosa Parks Circle, this event brings together survivors, families, and supporters to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research.
3. Komen Michigan More Than Pink Walk
   • Date: October 26, 2024
   • Location: Kalamazoo
   • Time: 8:00 AM
     Susan G. Komen’s More Than Pink Walk is an emotional and inspiring event aimed at celebrating breast cancer survivors and honoring those lost to the disease. It helps raise critical funds for research and community health initiatives.
4. Tough Enough to Wear Pink Rodeo – Mason
   • Date: October 11, 2024
   • Location: Ingham County Fairgrounds, Mason
   • Time: 7:00 PM
     This annual rodeo supports breast cancer awareness with a portion of proceeds going to local breast cancer organizations.
5. Go Pink for the Cure
   • Date: Throughout October
   • Location: Schools and community organizations statewide
   • Details: Organize events to promote awareness and support the mission to end breast cancer.
6. Fresh Thyme Fundraiser
   • Date: October 1 - 31, 2024
   • Location: Fresh Thyme stores across Michigan
   • Details: Participating stores will have promotions with proceeds going to breast cancer research​(Susan G. Komen®)​(State of Michigan | Michigan.gov).
7. Wear Pink Day at Local Businesses
   • Date: Throughout October
   • Details: Various businesses will host events encouraging staff and customers to wear pink. Check with local businesses for specifics​(
     
     State of Michigan | Michigan.gov).
8. Local Health Screenings
   • Date: Various dates in October
   • Location: Local health departments and clinics across Michigan
   • Details: Community health screenings for breast cancer awareness​(
     
     State of Michigan | Michigan.gov)​(BCRFA).