Awareness

            It seems like each month has an awareness campaign that is flaunted in the media, with all sorts of paraphernalia and pamphlets to assist in spreading the message, bringing whatever cause it is to light. This month, October, is both breast cancer and domestic violence awareness, and no, I won’t be plastering my vehicle in pink and purple ribbon magnets that are hawked in every gas station or grocery store, nor will I be toting my groceries around in canvas bags that have the colored ribbons adorned on them. Yes, I do hope that one day both of these things, breast cancer and domestic violence, become things of the past, but I don’t think the way for that to happen is through monthly awareness campaigns.

            The other day I was in the waiting room of the hospital, awaiting to be checked in for my MRI. A lady who was sitting in the waiting room commented on my hair (it’s currently a bright turquoise, specifically Manic Panic Voodoo Blue) and asked what color I was going to go next. She suggested pink since it is breast cancer awareness month and I could tell a story with my hair. Then she asked me about Ebola and if I was scared, then said that she hopes that she can finish up at the hospital in time for her to go and make the arrangements for her sister’s funeral. She finished our conversation (which was mostly one sided) with telling me that I will feel better soon, since “God is great.” So many things were going through my head, but I just smiled and nodded.

            First off, no, I won’t be dying my hair pink for breast cancer awareness month, nor will I be participating in any of the “Walk for a cure” events (even if I was able to walk without pain). No, I am not a curmudgeon (okay, maybe a little), but most of the overhead for such events goes towards administrative costs and fundraising functions. For example, one of the largest breast cancer charities, the American Breast Cancer Foundation (which sounds very official), takes in $959,635 from contributions, but only around half goes to supporting the cause, with the rest going to administrative costs and fundraising expenses. So, how much actually goes towards "finding a cure?"

           I think that we are all aware of the diseases and various causes that crop up each month, which makes awareness campaigns idiotic. Who doesn't know that hitting people or bullying them is wrong or that breast cancer is bad? Do we really need to have campaigns for these causes? People just blindly contribute to charities, without thinking or doing research. PETA is another example of a company that people like to donate to, but if you dig into the business practices, you will see that they actually kill more animals than they claim to help. My point is, do your research and don't just jump at the latest craze or campaign. Sure, donate, but do it wisely. Be informed. Seek out information rather than being lazy and just accepting what you are told by the media talking heads, as they all have agendas, which mainly center around fear tactics and propaganda. Don't buy into it. You have a brain for a reason...USE IT!