Become more aware this October
Although October might inspire visions of candy corn, costumes and pumpkin-spiced everything, there are several causes for people to champion, and we’d like to encourage you to choose one – or more – in which to pour your energy.
Breast cancer
Breast Cancer Awareness Month has a history dating back to the 1980s, when the observance was first organized by the American Cancer Society to promote early detection of the disease. We all know someone in our lives, whether a friend or family member, who has fought this rampant disease. Some have won that battle, and some have been overcome by breast cancer.
For the survivors as well as those we keep in our memory, October can be a time to “think pink,” encourage self-exams and mammograms and make sure everyone understands what’s at stake when we talk about breast cancer – one of the most prolific cancers among women today.
We present our Think Pink special section inside today’s issue, so be sure to flip through that to read both inspiring stories as well as helpful advice when it comes to breast cancer awareness.
Domestic violence
It’s also National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The incidence of domestic violence is arguably as troubling as breast cancer. Every year in October the local domestic violence coalition urges people to become more in tune to the struggles faced by those who are in abusive relationship and focuses on making help available to those in need. Since, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in three women and one in four men have experienced some form of physical violence, this crime is disturbingly common. Franklin County isn’t immune to these statistics, with Safeplace serving hundreds of people every year. This year, Safeplace wants us to Paint Franklin County Purple in recognition of the awareness initiative, so maybe take the time to swath your house or business in festoons of purple.
Fire Prevention Week
The Russellville Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere,” which works to educate the public about basic but essential ways to quickly and safely escape a home fire. Fire Prevention Week is officially observed Oct. 7-13 this year. We’re right in the thick of it, so there’s no better time to check your smoke alarms and make a family escape plan in case of a fire at home.
Red Ribbon Week
Annually, October is also the month designated for Red Ribbon Week, a national campaign promoting drug and alcohol prevention. The red ribbon has become a symbol of prevention to reduce the demand for illegal drugs. The weeklong observance is particularly a time to encourage our young people to make good choices – something we should do for Red Ribbon Week as well as all year round. This year Red Ribbon Week will be held Oct. 23-31.
For some, October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, or Caffeine Addiction Recovery Month, or Emotional Wellness Month. For others, National Bullying Prevention Month, National Cyber Security Awareness Month or other causes might speak to them or hit close to home in some way.
Whatever effort you find meaningful, we urge you to support it. Get aware – and you just might be able to help inform someone else.
