Melanin & Pink Ribbons

We all know the breast cancer fight is symbolized by the pink ribbon. I wanted to learn the origin of the ribbons and why pink. The National Breast Cancer Foundation reports Charlotte Haley had breast cancer touch her life through her grandmother, sister and mother who fought breast cancer. In an effort to raise awareness she began to pass out peach-colored ribbons attached to a card stating, “only 5% of a 1.8 billion dollar is targeted for cancer prevention.”  She was very successful in raising awareness and it’s reported that corporations and media outlets contacted her asking for permission to feature her ribbons. She promptly denied all the requests, rejecting the commercial aspect of the requests.

Fast forward and in 1992 October was established as Breast Cancer awareness month and beauty giant Estee Lauder shared the pink ribbon and the rest is history. Since that time the pink ribbon has morphed into separate ribbons for inflammatory breast cancer, male breast cancer, metastatic breast cancer and hereditary /gynecologic cancers.

The ribbon has come to symbolize hope in the breast cancer journey. So the next time you wear a pink ribbon remember the efforts of one woman can make a difference.