Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, philanthropist, and breast cancer advocate Jewel has been appointed as the official spokesperson of National Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day, which is set for October 17, 2012, according to a recent press release from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. BRA Day is a joint effort between the ASPS and the Plastic Surgery Foundation aimed at increasing awareness for breast reconstruction options after a mastectomy.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which happens every October, is already a wildly popular campaign that raises both awareness and funds for breast cancer research and treatment. BRA Day is geared towards those women who have had their breasts removed after enduring a bout with breast cancer. Twenty-one countries, including the United States, are set to participate.
Breast cancer removal, also known as mastectomy, is often necessary in order to forestall the future growth of cancer cells. Unfortunately, the procedure also takes away an important part of the woman's body. Breast reconstruction surgery restores the breast that was lost to cancer.
Unfortunately, however, it seems that many post-mastectomy patients are unaware of their reconstruction options. According to researchers, 70 percent of women eligible for breast reconstruction are not being informed of their options. Jewel, as the BRA Day spokesperson, will advocate for greater awareness of breast reconstruction options through media appearances and public service announcements.
“We are thrilled that Jewel will be lending her time, talent and humanitarian spirit to National BRA Day,” says ASPS President Malcolm Z. Roth. “We feel that her passionate voice will help bring awareness to this important cause, and inspire women who are on the road to recovery and a full life beyond breast cancer.”
As part of her advocacy, Jewel will be performing a song that she has written to recognize breast reconstruction patients in a charity concert in New Orleans. This will be taking place on October 29 during the ASPS Annual Meeting in the Big Easy. Proceeds from the concert will be donated to the Plastic Surgery Foundation and used to support national and local breast reconstruction organizations. To learn more with our Plastic Surgeon San Antonio patients should schedule a consultation today.