Contributed by Nadine Lagaso
Kamehameha Schools keiki, staffers, and campus structures were awash with pink this week in commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The disease claimed the life of KS founder Ke Ali‘i Bernice Pauahi Bishop at the age of 52.
Breast cancer warrior Crystal Kua – a KS senior communications strategy consultant – shared with KS colleagues how support from family members and friends including KS Hawai‘i island staffers Kora Wilson and Marissa Harmon, helped her battle the disease.
“My message to you today is simple,” said Kua. “Be kind. Be compassionate. Because your kindness and compassion, without you knowing it, can be healing in more ways than one.”
We encourage Nā pua a Pauahi – Pauahi’s children – who have battled breast cancer to share their photos and powerful stories on KS social media channels as we all spread the word about healthy living, early detection, targeted treatment and the road to recovery. #pinkforpauahi #imua
Studies show that Native Hawaiian women have the highest breast cancer incidence and mortality rates when compared with other ethnic groups. Following are six ways to reduce your risk of breast cancer:
Perform Monthly Breast Self-Exams
Studies show that 40 percent of diagnosed breast cancers are detected by women who feel a lump, so establishing a regular breast self-exam is essential.
Get a Mammogram
Most women age 40 or older should get a mammogram and clinical breast exam every year. Talk to your doctor if you are at an increased risk or have a family history of breast cancer to get screened at an earlier age.
Breastfeed
If you can, Choose to breastfeed exclusively for six months and continue when other foods are introduced.
Get Active
Get 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. Strength train at least two days a week, and sit less.
Limit Alcohol
If you drink, limit yourself to one alcoholic drink per day.
Stay Lean After Menopause
Maintain a healthy weight and a low amount of body fat, and eat a healthy diet.
To learn more about breast cancer, prevention, warning signs, treatment and survival, visit the Susan G. Komen website or the American Cancer Society website.
Kamehameha Schools keiki, staffers, and campus structures were awash with pink this week in commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Above, the glow of the Pauahi Administration Building at KS Kapālama is visible from miles away.
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sp2020 goal 4,pink for pauahi
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Kaipuolono Article, Themes, KS Organization, Employee ‘Ohana, Newsroom, Health and Wellness
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