In 2020, it is estimated among women and men in the United States that there will be 279,100 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 42,690 deaths as a result of the disease. To commemorate October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Arbor Terrace Morris Plains residents and staff partnered with Purposed Events to host a “Bras for a Cause” creative event along with group activities, themed refreshments and informative discussions.
The community’s Engagement team discovered the bra decorating kits, which proved to be a creative and fun way to celebrate the many lives affected by and the survivors of breast cancer. The kits came fully equipped with everything needed to decorate the pink bras, from pearls to sequence, glitter and stones. This allowed participants to be as creative as they desired with accessories. The kits also included a canvas to mount and display the finished bra.
Participants were able to share their creations via a virtual Zoom event with their loved ones. The experience uplifted the spirits of residents and engaged them in a new way to honor a cause about which they are passionate.
“While the pandemic has canceled many opportunities for us to participate in so many causes and local walks this year, we felt it was still important to continue to acknowledge causes like this one that matter most to our residents,” said Leah McRae, Engagement director. “One resident who had just been told her granddaughter was recently diagnosed with breast cancer was overjoyed to participate and give her granddaughter the masterpiece as a token of love and as a comfort to her.”
The bra kits were purchased for $25 each, and a portion of all proceeds will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, where the community has registered to have its own third-party fundraising event.