I don’t know about for you, but breast cancer awareness month is hitting me differently in 2023. I spent the spring hyper-focused on a breast cancer quilt for a local cancer center, exploring the diversity of the patient experience. Two of my dear friends are enduring the grueling rollercoaster that is breast cancer treatment which is, in a word, wrenching. New research is encouraging however. There is also growing awareness of corporate pink-washing, which is so needed.
October used to hit me like a monochromatic wave of pink. Now it feels more nuanced and multidimensional; the humanity is energizing. With this in mind, I am pleased to announce Quiltlove’s 2023 support for breast cancer awareness month.
1. Donating 10% of Proceeds from Breast Cancer Support Quilts to Charity
First, I’m putting my money where my mouth (and my heart) is by donating ten percent of proceeds from breast cancer support quilts to charity. Simply purchase a quilt for a loved one facing breast cancer between 9/15 and 10/31 and indicate “breast cancer support” as the occasion upon checkout, and you’re good to go.
This year, I am donating to the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer initiative. Money raised will help the American Cancer Society (ACS) fund breakthrough breast cancer research, provide free information and support, and help people reduce their breast cancer risk or find it early when it may be more treatable. ACS scores well with Charity Navigator and Guidestar, two nonprofit rating agencies I always reference before committing to a donation.
If you needed a little nudge to wrap someone facing breast cancer in your life in love and support, consider it done. Nudge, nudge.
2. Donating Quilts to a Breast Cancer Survivor and a Top Fundraiser
Second, I’m happily donating two custom quilts to the 2023 Making Strides, Silicon Valley event. One will be a prize in the Breast Cancer Survivor drawing, and the other will go to one lucky Pacesetter (i.e., a top fundraiser). These drawings are always so much fun to be a part of and I cannot wait to meet this year’s inspiring winners! It could be you… but only if you sign up (and encourage your friends to do the same).
3. On Site at the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Silicon Valley, CA
Third, I will be at the Making Strides event in Silicon Valley, with a table located in the Vendor Fair. This event brings big energy and an outpouring of community. It is the perfect note on which to end breast cancer awareness month this October. Details are listed below:
- Saturday, October 28, 2023
- 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- California’s Great America
- 4701 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, California
If you are in the area, please swing by and say hello! Not only would I love to meet you, but I will have some very cute giveaways on hand as well. Scroll down for a hint!
4. Donating Pocket Quilts to Cancer Center Patients
Finally, I’m stocking the Alta Bates Comprehensive Cancer Center waiting room with the most adorable free pocket quilts this October. This idea has been swirling in my brain for a while, so it is very satisfying to make it a reality. Remember the breast cancer patient quilt from the spring? Patients will be able to take a swatch of coordinating fabric home in the form of their own little pocket quilt, mounted on cardstock and paired with a positive message. It is my hope that while this token is small in size, it will remind them of the powerful breast cancer community of which they are a part.
How does breast cancer awareness month make you feel? Are you participating in any special events or activities this October? I would love to hear from you.
As always, thanks for reading.
Warmly,
