LIHUE — Tuesday is the first day of October, which is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. And the Kauai Committee on the Status of Women (KCSW) is holding a sign waving campaign on Tuesday to maximize observance of the month.
Everyone is invited to join the County of Kauai KCSW and its supporting partners, like the YWCA of Kauai and the Zonta Club of Kauai at the front area of Kauai Community College for the event, which starts at 4 p.m. and lasts until at least 5:30 p.m.
“Breast cancer touches the lives of so many in our community. Statistics tell us that breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide with one in eight women in the United States who will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime,” KCSW Treasurer Regina Carvalho.
”In recent years, there have been an increase in breast cancer among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. We encourage you to do monthly breast exams and regular mammograms. Early detection may give you a greater chance of survival.”
Sign waving participants are encouraged to wear pink as a symbol of strength. A prize for the most original pink outfit will be presented.
A county press release said the goal of the campaign is to engage the public, foster a sense of solidarity, and encourage proactive steps toward early detection of breast cancer. A pop-up tent with light refreshments and educational resources by the American Cancer Society will be set up at the event.
During the month of October, the historic County Building will be illuminated in pink to give support to the fighters and offer continued strength to the survivors.
This demonstration extends to other community groups, such as the Kauai Pop Warner Football League and the Kauai football officials, who will wear pink in honor of the month’s observance.
The Kauai Committee on the Status of Women is part of the Hawaii State Commission on the Status of Women, which strives to advance the status of women and girls by acting as a catalyst for positive change through advocacy, education, collaboration and program development.
Meetings for KCSW are public and anyone interested in attending may view the posted agenda on the boards and commissions website at www.kauai.gov/boardsandcommissions under the calendar section. Meetings are currently held every other month, on the third Wednesday starting at 5 p.m. The KCSW next meets on Nov. 20.
