How to Fight Breast Cancer Without Giving Money

ABC’s Samantha Who? premieres tonight, and for a second season the show’s main character Samantha, played by Christian Applegate, will humorously deal with her amnesia. But off the set, Applegate's real life medical issues are serious. In August she publically announced her breast cancer diagnosis. Shortly after, Applegate underwent a double mastectomy. So far, she's been back at work and is doing OK.

“I would like to thank everyone for the overwhelming love and support that I've gotten,” Applegate said last month at the Emmys.

Applegate is one of approximately 200,000 women that will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer this year alone, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

And while financial donations are essential, especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, there are other ways to give, too.

GET INVOLVED WITH SUPPORT GROUPS

For breast cancer survivors at least one year out of treatment, there are volunteer opportunities: The Breast Cancer Network of Strength is a good place to start www.networkofstrength.com. Positions include the “Your Shoes Peer Counselor” role, in which survivors are trained as on-call peer counselors for a 24/7 support center hotline. There is also a “Match Peer Counselor" position, where survivors are matched with breast cancer patients with similar experiences.

Spouses or partners of individuals diagnosed and treated for breast cancer, can become "Your Shoes Partner Match Peer Counselors." These volunteers also work the 24/7 support hotline and provide callers with the opportunity to speak with someone who has watched a loved one battle breast cancer.

For Breast Cancer advocates, positions with the Network of Strength include “Open Door Facilitator” and “Breast Health Educator.” “Open Door Facilitator,” volunteers are responsible for organizing Network of Strength Open Door educational sessions. Responsibilities include: Scheduling guest speakers, reaching out to those in need of professional counseling, and maintaining group records. “Breast Health Educators,” are volunteers responsible for promoting Network of Strength Open Door educational sessions, through local advertising and public relations campaigns, and for maintaining an atmosphere of confidentiality.

GET INVOLVED WITH FUND RAISING

Assisting at Events: Organizations like Breast Cancer Fund, based in San Francisco, set up events all year to raise money and to raise breast cancer awareness. “Our organization focuses on prevention,” says Ariane Trelaun, an associate director. There are four main events each year: “Bike Against the Odds,” “Peak Hike,” “Climb Against the Odds,” and a “Heroes Tribute” dinner, all require volunteers, especially those who can help with phone calls and mailings.

Casual Up for Breast Cancer: Everyone loves casual Fridays, and "Casual Up for Breast Cancer” is an event created by the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. that can be done at any time during the year, not just October. “The event begins with a moderator from the company initiating a fund raiser, in which the proceeds go towards mammograms," says Doug Feil, development manager for NBCF. And initiating the event, even if you don’t have the means to donate, stimulates others. “It’s a way to take an active role without necessarily donating.” To coordinate this type of event, go to www.casualup.org for more details. Any money raised by employees should be reported to the employer, and is tax deductible.

Susan G Komen & BMW: BMW and Susan G. Komen for the Cure are teaming up for the 12th annual Ultimate Drive against Breast Cancer which has been ongoing since February, according to Cynthia Ramirez, special events associate for Susan G. Komen for the Cure in the Greater New York area. There is still time to register and help both companies reach their goal of raising $12 million this year. Check out the 2008 Route Map to see when the event will be near you. To qualify for a test drive, you must have a valid license, and for each mile you drive, BMW will donate $1 to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for the Cure.

Do you have any suggestions on how you can volunteer for Breast Cancer Awareness Month or other causes without spending money?