3 ways to get involved in Breast Cancer Awareness

One in nine women in Ireland will develop breast cancer in the course of their lifetime (Breast Cancer Ireland). Raising awareness for this disease is a cause close to so many of our hearts, especially to those of us who’ve been personally impacted. 

While honouring Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a great way to raise awareness, it’s also important that we continue this support into the rest of the year. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Breast Cancer Ireland (BCI) to share with readers the best ways to get involved. 

1. One-off donations

Research plays a huge role in increasing survival rates for those struggling with breast cancer. In fact, through research like that of Breast Cancer Ireland’s, survival rates have increased to 88 per cent and mortality rates are dropping by two per cent annually on average. On the awareness front, BCI also sees over 25,000 women and young girls through their Education and Outreach complimentary awareness programme.

A significant way to help support this progress is by making a one-time donation to BCI. You may donate whatever you can, whether it’s five euros or upwards, via credit card online. They’ve also introduced an “in memory” donation option, where you can also choose to donate in memory of someone you’ve lost to breast cancer.

2. Monthly contributions

If you’re in a position to make monthly donations, Breast Cancer Ireland allows you to choose which department you’d like your money to go towards – research, education and awareness, or fellowships and scholarships. You’ll also receive regular updates from the charity’s CEO Aisling Hurley on how your donations are making an impact.

Make sure to take advantage of tax-effective giving as well. The government-approved tax back scheme allows charities like BCI to claim 44.9 per cent in tax back on donations over €250, at no cost to the donor. For example, a monthly gift of €21 over 12 months totals €252 – leading to an additional €112.25 on top of your €250 donation. All you need to do is sign and return a CHY3 form.

3. Organise an event

Another fantastic way to get involved is to organise a fundraising event, be it a company initiative, school fundraiser, online or local event. Alongside sponsored runs, walks and cycles, here are some creative event ideas:

• Cake sale
• Car boot sale
• Coffee morning
• Fashion show
• Sports event
• Book sale
• Table quiz
• Supermarket bag pack
• Concert/Play
• Swim

Whether you make a donation or help raise additional funds, it can help support pioneering research that will help the 3,700 women in Ireland who are diagnosed with breast cancer every year.

As survival rates continue to improve based on new and ongoing research into new therapies and treatments for those diagnosed, Breast Cancer Ireland aims to move closer to a world where patients will live with a breast cancer diagnosis that is treatable and maintainable long-term.

To learn more about Breast Cancer Ireland and ways to get involved, visit their website.

We’ve teamed up with Breast Cancer Ireland to giveaway a €200 Pennys voucher. Enter for your chance to WIN here.