The Susan G. Komen foundation, also known as simply “Komen”  is the most widely known Breast Cancer research organization worldwide. After it’s beginning in 1982, it has spent 1.5 billion on breast cancer research, educational programming, advocacy and health support services. The foundation is named after Susan Goodman, who later became Susan Goodman Komen, who passed away in 1980 from breast cancer. Her sister believed she could have survived if doctors had known more about the disease, thus putting in gear the making of an organization who is dedicated to ending breast cancer.

Throughout the years of advocacy and support for the breast cancer community, the Komen foundation has made a lasting impact in several ways.  One of the impressions they have left on the world is the iconic pink ribbon, as well as the color pink itself. The pink ribbon is the symbol of breast cancer awareness and was made known by the Susan G. Komen foundation. The color is strategically chosen to be pink and represent femininity. The hope behind this representation was to also represent traditional feminine characteristics such as caring for and love for one another.  Every October is recognized as national Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  The color pink is incorporated into uniforms and worn proudly by several sports teams during games. In many stadiums, a pink ribbon has been painted onto the playing field, for even more representation and awareness for Breast Cancer. Through the pink ribbon, the Susan G. Komen foundation has created a iconic symbol that allows for others to recognize and be aware of breast cancer and it’s affects on women and a small percentage of men across the globe. 

The second impact the Susan G. Komen foundation has made is the 3 Day, race for the cure. The 3 Day is a 60 mile walk over the course of 3 days. Each day participants walk 20 miles as they are cheered on by supporters on the path. The 3 Day occurs yearly sometime between August and November. The cities that have hosted the 3 Day include: Dallas/ Fort. Worth, Atlanta, Philadelphia, San Diego, Seattle and the Twin Cities. In order to participate a walker must raise $2,300. Many participants reach out to family members/ friends/ coworkers, etc. in order to reach the goal. Because of this several others are able to be involved in the 3 Day, even if they are not walking. Many of the walkers in the past have walked for their mothers, sisters, aunts, grandmothers, friends or other relatives who were affected by breast cancer. 75% of the proceeds from the 3 Day go to Komen’s national priorities which include: research, community health and advocacy and global partnerships. The other 25 % of the profits stay within the local community to fund screenings, diagnosis programs and education.  In order to find more information about the Komen 3 Day and register for the race, you can visit their website.  The fight to end breast cancer isn’t over, but dedicated people and organizations like the Susan G. Komen foundation are making big steps toward finding the cure.