Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

The Dolls are no stranger to the vibrant color PINK! This happy hue represents caring , compassion, love and is associated with giving and receiving care. Perhaps this is why it’s the chosen color of Breast Cancer Awareness. Did you know that nearly 250,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year? That could be your mother, sister, best friend… or even you. Caitlin and Danielle have been touched by the work of American Cancer Society to raise awareness and funds and ultimately save lives. These Dolls have a HUGE announcement…. Once Upon a Dollhouse is the official social media sponsor of Chicago’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

By living life one moment at a time – one step at a time, we can all take strides together. Every October, American Cancer Society holds a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event so anyone touched by breast cancer won’t have to face their diagnosis alone. This helps raise awareness and money to fund research, support services, and early detection. These Making Strides events save lives. We are putting together a DOLL team and we would LOVE for you to join us!

Hope is the only thing stronger than fear. Grab your mom – your sister – your best friend and commit to helping Dolls everywhere. This year’s event will be held at Soldier Field and is a noncompetitive 3 to 5 mile walk that makes a difference for everyone who has been touched by breast cancer. Join our team here!

The American Cancer Society has played a critical role in many breast cancer research breakthroughs in recent history – and the next breakthrough could be right around the corner because money raised through Making Strides events currently helps fund countless research and training grants in areas including genetics, drug development, and epidemiological studies. Previously the American Cancer Society has funded potentially lifesaving breast cancer drugs such as Tamoxifen and Herceptin. Money raised this year could go to develop the next generation of lifesaving treatments.

I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing, kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day and I believe in miracles. – Audrey Hepburn

Protect your ta ta’s! 40% of women diagnosed with Breast Cancer find a lump themselves. Here are some things to consider…

Check your family history. Start a dialogue with your mom to find out if you have had breast cancer in your family – what age was the diagnosis and what side of the family.
Get Personable. Get to know yourself for your own good. Check out the shape and size of your breast, the feeling of your tissue… all of it. Get to know your breasts well. If you don’t know these babies well, how will you know if they have changed?
Know what the signs and symptoms are. Cancers may feel like a really hard, firm ball, like a frozen pea. Lumps are what you are looking for! Also take note if this lump goes away with your cycle.
Practice Balance. Maintaing a healthy lifestyle is important! Eat nutrient dense foods, exercise, remove stress from your life when possible and smile!

Prevention and education guidelines have been developed by The American Cancer Society and have quickly become the industry standard. Regular testing, exercise, and eating healthy can also help reduce your risk of breast cancer.

Caitlin and Danielle are wearing tutus and bralettes from Anastasia Chatzka, a bespoke designer with a boutique in West Town. We love her doll-like ensembles and whimsical demeanor!

All photos were taken by our fiercely talented friend and photographer, Alexandra Gerard. Follow her on Instagram @itsyagrlgerry!