October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and you may be helping in fundraising efforts for this worthwhile cause. So far, the month has been full of races, walks, pink ribbons, cancer survivor stories, and education. But one question comes to mind amongst all of these efforts…

Is everything we are doing making a difference? And just where does all of this fundraising money go?

According to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, they have invested $1 billion to date in breast cancer research, education, and health services.

A minimum of twenty-five percent of the net income from each domestic Affiliate Race supports the Komen for the Cure Award and Research Grant Programs. These programs fund groundbreaking breast cancer research, meritorious awards, and educational and scientific conferences around the world.

And up to seventy-five percent of the net income from each domestic Affiliate Race stays in the local community to fund breast health education and breast cancer screening and treatment projects.

The American Cancer Society states that since 1993, 3.5 million walkers across the country have raised more than $230 million through their Making Strides Against Breast Cancer events.

The money raised through Making Strides events helps the American Cancer Society fight breast cancer by offering the nation’s only 24-hour cancer hotline, providing free email mammogram reminders, and funding cutting-edge research leading to the discovery of lifesaving treatments like Tamoxifen and Herceptin.

Based on rates from the National Cancer Institute, 12% (or 1 of 8) women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time during their lifetime.

So, participate in that walk, make that donation, and help breast cancer fundraising efforts… one in eight women will be thankful that you did.

For more information on breast cancer prevention and treatment, visit Healia.com.

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