Pretty In Pink

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For me, this year it takes on a whole new meaning. My heart is filled with support, memories and a true compassion for all those affected.

Many of you gave me support last year during an incredibly trying time in my life. Last year, my sweet grandmother passed away from the disease {ironically during the nationally recognized month dedicated to breast cancer}. Many of you I never met, some I had just met in NYC, never the less, the sweet emails and comments I got from you softened my heart and gave me encouragement. I appreciate each and every one of you who said a prayer, believed and hoped with me, I will never ever forget it.

Next year, I plan on having a charity in her honor. I have wanted to do something for quite some time now, but my heart was just not ready to let go. A few weeks ago I had the most incredible dream of my Memaw and I know it came from the Lord. Since then God has been poking at me to do something big in her honor. I had hoped I could make it happen for this October, but it will take some time to get it rolling… so stay tuned because next October is going to be huge!

Since the charity in my Memaw’s honor hasn’t been fully established yet, I want to encourage you all to give to the cause. There are many ways you can support the key to cure. Susan G. Komen, breast health organizations in your local community and buying products where the proceeds go to research. I am going to make it a priority to touch the lives of women in my grandmother’s honor. It’s what she did, it’s what she would want.

Like last year, I put together a few of my favorite items that are in support of the cause.

Here’s the breakdown:

1. This limited-edition bracelet was designed by Rachel Leigh for LOFT. $5 from the purchase of this bracelet will be donated directly to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, up to $200,000.

2. Jessica Quirk for LOFT Cares Friendship Bracelet. $5 from the purchase of this bracelet will be donated directly to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, up to $200,000.

3. 100% of the profits from the sale of e.l.f Cosmetics two best selling glosses (Glitter Gloss in Twinkle Pink and Glossy Gloss in Wild Watermelon will benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. $3 each, $6 set.)

4. “Together We Can, I Promise We Will” graphic T-Shirt by Old Navy , 5% percent of proceeds go to Susan G. Komen for the cure.

5. 100% of the proceeds of a set of 4 Acid Palm Porcelain Coaster by Jonathan Adler {from Clayton Gray Home} will go to A Key To The Cure during this month!

6. Evelyn Lauder Pink Ribbon Collection by Estée Lauder will donate 20% of the suggested retail price of its Pink Ribbon Collection to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

7. OPI’s limited edition Pink Shatter: Pink of Hearts Nail Lacquer to support Susan G. Komen for the Cure in its promise to save lives and end breast cancer forever. Available for September- October 2011 only.

8. 5 stud Earring Set by Betsey Johnson {100% of proceeds from these go to breast cancer research as Betsey is a breast cancer survivor herself!}

9. Sparkly Pink Shoes by Fergie {Fergie & Brown Shoe Company will be donating $20,000 to Susan G. Komen for the cure this year}

10. The Lilly Pulitzer charm bracelet, retailing for $48.00, has several symbols of hope and love. Lilly Pulitzer makes a minimum donation of $10,000 to BCCA and since Lilly herself loved a good party, the store will be hosting shopping events in Lilly Pulitzer locations nationwide, donating a percentage of proceeds back to them as well!

11. Oakley Discreet Breast Cancer Awareness Edition Sunglasses. They are infused with the power of pink to help young women living with breast cancer: they’ll provide $20 to YSC for each purchase.

Seriously, buy “PINK” this month in remembrance of all the special and beautiful ladies that have fought, survived and are fighting through breast cancer. Let’s beat this once and for all!

What part do you take in Breast Cancer Awareness month? Share your stories of healing, loss & recovery. Email me at lindsay@adesignstory.com and be a part of a day of memories this October!