“Connect, Communicate and Conquer.” That’s the slogan that has made breast cancer research one of the top cause-related marketing campaigns in the world.
Since its beginnings in 1982, the Komen Foundation has raised nearly $2 billion dollars in education, health services and support programs across the U.S. and 50 countries.
But some say the organization has gone too far with some of its corporate sponsorships, cross marketing and fund distribution.
“Pink Ribbons, Inc.” states that some corporate partners actually make products with links to cancer-causing agents. Seriously? Other partners want to tap into the highly lucrative female demographic since women make 80 percent of household purchasing decisions. Others just want to improve their image, i.e. the NFL.
Some cancer patients question the notion of calling it “battling the disease.” As in, she lost her “battle with cancer,” suggesting some just don’t fight hard enough to win. They say it sends the wrong message.
One activist calls the whole pink ribbon crusade “the tyranny of cheerfulness” or a false sense of positive that tries to keep a smile on the faces of breast cancer patients.
I, honestly, was shocked at some of the eye-opening information offered in this documentary. As a member of a Stage IV support group said, “It’s like they’re using our disease to profit and that’s not OK.”
See for yourself and make up your own mind.