Ten years. That’s how long it’s been since I lost my aunt to breast cancer. Before she was diagnosed, I wasn’t familiar with breast cancer outside of the random post my friends would share on social media. I felt no emotional connection to a pink ribbon or meme. I was aware of breast cancer, but wasn’t compelled to actually do anything about it.
Cancer doesn’t have a face until it’s yours or someone you know.
Anthony Del Monte
My Aunt Grace gave cancer a face. Breast cancer was no longer something I only thought about in October. It wasn’t just the color pink. Cancer was a murderer. It was something worth fighting against.
Before my aunt passed away, I naively thought that because I wore pink and changed my profile picture in October I was actually a part of the fight against cancer. Social media campaigns made it sound that simple. Very rarely did I feel compelled to actually do something about it.
According to Dr. L Meghan Mahoney, the goal of mass media campaigns is to get audiences offline and inspire them towards real-life behavior changes. One of the main problems with cyberactivism is the false impression of activism. Sharing a meme is just that: sharing a meme. Often, diffusion-based campaigns are not linked to real benefits. For cyberactivism to be considered effective, it must encourage real-life action. If an organization’s breast cancer awareness campaign does not inspire people to financially contribute to cancer research, spend time caring for cancer patients, schedule a personal doctor’s appointment, or volunteer at cancer patient centers, it is reasonable to assume that the campaign failed. Awareness is important for every cause, but it is not enough.
Fight-against-cancer campaigns will be much more beneficial and effective if they utilized action-oriented mobilization approaches. Facebook groups that connect cancer warriors and survivors would be a great way to encourage communities. Social media posts that display a “donate” button would make it easier and more convenient for the audience to financially contribute. Sharing stories from cancer patients and family members would help the audience better connect with the campaign. The goal is to connect the message with people’s emotions. Emotional connection will inspire real-life action.
Breast cancer awareness month, October, is just around the corner. Many people will change their profile pictures, wear pink, and share cancer memes. While these are easy ways to show morale support to those who have fought or are fighting cancer, there are many other opportunities to get involved and help them fight.
Here are five ways YOU can join the fight today:
- Volunteer your time.
- Donate money.
- Take part in research.
- Participate in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.
- Take charge of your health
Now that we’re all aware of breast cancer, let’s do something about it. Together, we can make a difference.
If you have other ideas about how to join the fight against breast cancer, I’d love to hear them! Comment below to share your suggestions with me and everyone who reads this.
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