My husband came up with this idea he thought I should pursue. Why not contact the makers of bras, he suggested, and encourage them to sew some kind of pink ribbon or inspirational message inside these undergarments so women are reminded of the importance of breast health every time they get dressed? Because I don't have enough time right now, I told him, thinking maybe one day when my two little boys are all grown up and I have time for myself I will focus my energy on some worthwhile cause. A few days after my husband shared his brainstorm with me, I read about a woman who has spearheaded a project very similar to the one he was dreaming of. Great minds think alike.
Think about this:
Fatima Karriem is using her own breast cancer experience to educate women in her homeland: South Africa.
Diagnosed with the disease in 2005 and now a veteran of a radical mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation, Karriem, now an Ohio resident, is asking for people to donate bras -- they are very expensive in her country -- in all sizes and colors. On the tags, she is asking donors to add messages of hope, encouragement, and breast cancer education. Each package will then be shipped to Africa with information women need to know about the disease.
If you're like me and want to make a worldy difference but just can't offer bunches of time, you can still help. Just send a bra with tags and messages attached to:
Bras for Africa
10900 Euclid Ave.
Crawford Hall 304
Cleveland, OH 44106
attention: Fatima Karriem
1. Jacki, this is a fantastic idea! I am truly inspired and want to take part in making this happen. Not only campaigning bra manufacturers, but also helping Fatima.
Posted at 10:20AM on May 10th 2007 by Karen