Feeling Blue Over Pink

In my defense, I have had family members who suffered from breast cancer.  I appreciate that generous donations to cancer research may have helped them beat it.  But I have long since reached my pink saturation point.

This month a magazine I read highlighted some of the best of Breast Cancer Literature because it is just so hard to wade through the glut of books on the subject strategically releasing this month.  Believe it or not, one such book talks about how the breast cancer “culture” may actually be hurting more than helping.  I don’t recall why; maybe because the support becomes more trendy than substantive.

Whatever the reason, it made me want to shout, “You have a whole culture! If it’s become such a hindrance, please, do share the love!”  After all, no one needs a field guide to navigate the Tay-Sachs section of Barnes and Noble.

While all of Hollywood and Nashville and the NFL are waving the pink banner, it would be good if the regular joe looked further to those suffering from a multitude of afflictions with less cool-factor and smaller lobbies.  The needs are endless, this and every month.  Here are just a few off the top of my head; a little research will go a long way if you need inspiration.

Tay-Sachs, a sometimes deadly genetic disorder that often affects children.  If you want to help, you can trick or treat or just shoot things in New Jersey this month, bid on stuff with Eric Steinbach and the Browns in Ohio, or adopt a research mouse anytime.  

Rett Syndrome- A disorder of the nervous system that causes regression in hand use and communication in little girls.  There’s a Strollathon and picnic fundraiser this month, right here in SoCal!

Multiple Schlerosis- Autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.  There's a double-your-gift event going on now,  or find a bike, mud run or walking event near you.