First, a heartfelt thank you!

Avon’s commitment to the fight against breast cancer has been part of the company’s DNA for 25 years. In 2003, that commitment gave rise to the AVON 39 The Walk to End Breast Cancer series, and we are so proud of the passionate community that has developed in this time. To the hundreds of thousands of women, men and children who have walked, volunteered, crewed, fundraised, donated and cheered for this cause — our sincerest and most heartfelt thank you. Because of you, AVON 39 has been able to raise more than $646 million dollars toward the fight to end breast cancer.

We are excited to share that Avon will be introducing a new fundraising program in Spring 2018 that will help continue our work with the breast cancer community. This program will build off the success and learnings we’ve gained with the AVON 39 walks, and will engage passionate supporters like you who are committed to this fight against breast cancer. With the transition to this new program, Avon will no longer be sponsoring the AVON 39 event; 2017 was our last season.

We are proud of our beneficiaries and applaud the amazing work they are doing in the breast cancer community. 100% of all net proceeds raised from the 2017 AVON 39 Walk season and any additional funds raised through other fundraising initiatives in 2017 are being granted to these worthy beneficiaries through the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade program.

If you would like to make a donation to any one of our beneficiaries we’ve supported over the years, you can learn more about past grantees in our grant archive.

We hope that each and every one of you who has engaged with us over the years will continue to do so as we head into this new chapter.

For questions, please visit this FAQ page to learn more. You can also email [email protected].

We thank you again for your dedication to this incredible community and look forward to your participation in our future programs by the hunters passion!

Breast cancer is a prevalent form of cancer that primarily affects women but can also occur in men. It begins when abnormal cells in the breast tissue multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor. Understanding breast cancer and staying vigilant about its signs and symptoms are essential for early detection and effective treatment.

Risk factors for breast cancer include genetic predisposition (such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes), family history, advancing age, hormonal factors, obesity, alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity. While some risk factors cannot be controlled, adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce the likelihood of developing breast cancer.

Maintaining awareness of breast health through natural methods is crucial for early detection. These methods include:

  1. Breast Self-Exams (BSE): Regularly examining breasts for any changes in size, shape, texture, or the presence of lumps or abnormalities can help detect potential issues early on. Women should perform BSEs monthly, typically a few days after their menstrual period ends.
  2. Clinical Breast Exams (CBE): Professional clinical breast exams by healthcare providers should be part of routine check-ups. These exams help detect any abnormalities that may not be noticeable during self-exams.
  3. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting processed foods and saturated fats can contribute to overall health and potentially reduce breast cancer risk. Engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and managing stress are also beneficial.
  4. Awareness and Education: Staying informed about breast cancer risk factors, symptoms, and screening guidelines is crucial. Educational campaigns, resources, and discussions with healthcare providers can help individuals understand their risks and the importance of early detection.
  5. Regular Screening Mammograms: Mammograms are recommended for women starting at age 40 and should be conducted regularly according to healthcare guidelines. Mammograms can detect breast cancer early, often before symptoms manifest.

In summary, while breast cancer remains a significant health challenge, awareness, education, and proactive measures such as self-exams, healthy lifestyle choices, clinical exams, and regular screenings can significantly improve outcomes by enabling early detection and treatment.

Home-made food plays a pivotal role in supporting individuals recovering from breast cancer. As they undergo rigorous treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, their bodies endure significant stress and nutritional needs. Home-cooked meals offer a holistic approach to recovery, addressing not just physical nourishment but also emotional and psychological well-being.

Preparing meals at home allows for meticulous selection of ingredients, ensuring they are fresh, wholesome, and devoid of harmful additives or preservatives commonly found in processed foods. Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats become the cornerstone of these meals, providing a rich array of essential nutrients vital for healing and restoring vitality.

Breast cancer treatment often brings about a host of side effects ranging from nausea and vomiting to fatigue and loss of appetite. Home-cooked meals can be tailored to mitigate these side effects, incorporating ingredients known for their soothing properties and gentle impact on the digestive system. Simple, nourishing soups, herbal teas, and easily digestible foods help alleviate discomfort and encourage regular eating, ensuring individuals receive adequate nutrition to support their recovery journey.

Furthermore, home-cooked meals offer a sense of comfort and familiarity during a challenging time. Sharing meals with loved ones fosters a supportive environment, strengthening emotional bonds and providing much-needed solace and encouragement. Cooking together can also be therapeutic, empowering individuals to take an active role in their recovery and regain a sense of control over their lives.

Beyond physical nourishment, home-made food promotes holistic well-being by honoring individual tastes, preferences, and cultural traditions. It celebrates the joy of eating well and savoring the simple pleasures of life, instilling hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

In essence, home-cooked meals serve as a cornerstone of recovery from breast cancer, nourishing the body, uplifting the spirit, and fostering a sense of community and resilience that is indispensable on the path to healing.

Restaurant foods can significantly impact individuals battling breast cancer, influencing both their treatment outcomes and overall well-being. While dining out can offer convenience and socialization, it also presents challenges in maintaining a nutritious diet tailored to support recovery from breast cancer.

Restaurant meals often contain higher levels of unhealthy fats, sodium, and added sugars compared to home-cooked meals. Dishes may be prepared with excessive amounts of oil, butter, and salt, contributing to inflammation and potential weight gain, which are factors known to adversely affect breast cancer prognosis.

Moreover, portion sizes at restaurants tend to be larger than recommended serving sizes, leading to overconsumption of calories and contributing to weight management challenges. For individuals in recovery from breast cancer, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing the risk of cancer recurrence and managing treatment-related side effects.

Restaurant foods also pose challenges in terms of ingredient quality and transparency. Many restaurant dishes contain processed ingredients, artificial additives, and preservatives, which may have negative implications for overall health, immune function, and hormonal balance—all of which are critical considerations for breast cancer survivors.

Furthermore, dining out limits control over food preparation methods and ingredient choices. Restaurant chefs often prioritize flavor and presentation over nutritional content, leading to meals that are higher in calories, saturated fats, and refined carbohydrates, and lacking in essential nutrients necessary for supporting the body’s healing process.

Another concern with restaurant foods is the limited availability of dietary options tailored to specific health needs and preferences. While some establishments may offer healthier menu choices, others may lack suitable options for individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences, making it challenging to adhere to a balanced diet conducive to breast cancer recovery.

In conclusion, while dining out can be enjoyable and convenient, individuals recovering from breast cancer should exercise caution and mindfulness when selecting restaurant foods. Prioritizing home-cooked meals made with fresh, wholesome ingredients offers greater control over nutritional quality and supports the body’s healing process more effectively. Making informed choices and maintaining a balanced diet are essential steps in optimizing recovery and long-term health outcomes for breast cancer survivors.

Healthy restaurant meals can play a pivotal role in supporting individuals during their journey with breast cancer. While dining out often presents challenges in maintaining a nutritious diet, restaurants that prioritize health-conscious menu options offer valuable opportunities for individuals to make informed choices that contribute to their overall well-being.

Healthy restaurant meals are characterized by their emphasis on fresh, whole ingredients that are minimally processed and free from excessive amounts of unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium. These meals are thoughtfully prepared to provide essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, which are vital for supporting the body’s immune function, promoting healing, and reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.

Restaurant meals designed with health in mind offer a variety of nutritious options to suit different dietary preferences and requirements. From vibrant salads bursting with colorful vegetables and lean proteins to nourishing grain bowls and plant-based entreés, these menu offerings provide individuals with a range of delicious and satisfying choices that align with their health goals.

Moreover, healthy restaurant meals are portion-controlled and mindful of calorie content, helping individuals maintain a healthy weight and manage treatment-related side effects such as fatigue and nausea. By prioritizing balance and moderation, these meals empower individuals to make mindful decisions about their food intake and foster a positive relationship with eating during their cancer journey.

In addition to their nutritional benefits, healthy restaurant meals contribute to a sense of normalcy and social connection for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment. Dining out with friends and loved ones offers opportunities for relaxation, enjoyment, and emotional support, reinforcing the importance of holistic well-being in navigating the challenges of cancer survivorship.

Overall, healthy restaurant meals serve as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to stay healthy and nourished during their breast cancer journey. By choosing nutritious options that prioritize quality ingredients and mindful preparation, individuals can optimize their nutritional intake, support their treatment outcomes, and enhance their overall quality of life.

Raising awareness against breast cancer is crucial for promoting early detection, access to treatment, and support for individuals affected by the disease. Here are several effective strategies for raising awareness:

  1. Educational Campaigns: Develop and disseminate educational materials about breast cancer risk factors, symptoms, screening guidelines, and treatment options. These campaigns can target various audiences, including schools, workplaces, community organizations, and healthcare facilities.
  2. Social Media Campaigns: Utilize social media platforms to share information, personal stories, survivor experiences, and resources related to breast cancer awareness. Create hashtags, host live chats, and engage with followers to foster dialogue and spread awareness.
  3. Public Events and Workshops: Organize community events, workshops, seminars, and health fairs focused on breast cancer awareness and prevention. Invite healthcare professionals, survivors, advocates, and experts to share knowledge, provide screenings, and offer support services.
  4. Pink Ribbon Campaigns: Adopt the pink ribbon as a symbol of breast cancer awareness and solidarity. Distribute pink ribbons, pins, bracelets, and merchandise to raise funds for research, support programs, and advocacy efforts.
  5. Media Outreach: Collaborate with local media outlets, newspapers, radio stations, and television networks to feature stories, interviews, and segments highlighting breast cancer awareness initiatives, survivor journeys, and healthcare resources.
  6. Community Partnerships: Form partnerships with businesses, nonprofits, civic organizations, and healthcare providers to amplify breast cancer awareness efforts. Coordinate fundraising events, sponsorships, and volunteer opportunities to engage the community in meaningful ways.
  7. Cultural Sensitivity: Tailor awareness campaigns to address cultural beliefs, language barriers, and disparities in healthcare access among diverse populations. Partner with community leaders, faith-based organizations, and ethnic media outlets to reach underserved communities effectively.
  8. Support Groups and Counseling: Offer support groups, counseling services, and peer-to-peer networks for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer and their caregivers. Provide emotional support, practical guidance, and resources to help navigate the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.
  9. Policy Advocacy: Advocate for policies that promote breast cancer research, early detection programs, affordable healthcare, and equitable access to treatment. Lobby policymakers, participate in legislative campaigns, and support initiatives aimed at improving breast cancer outcomes at the local, national, and global levels.

By implementing these strategies and fostering a culture of awareness, advocacy, and support, individuals and organizations can make a meaningful impact in the fight against breast cancer and improve the lives of those affected by the disease.