Rotary Pink Pledge

The Rotary Pink Pledge—This initiative, spearheaded by Rotary’s “Women in Rotary,” is set to
promote awareness, support those affected, encourage early detection, and advocate for
regular screenings throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

In a show of unity, the campaign brings together Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact, with both youth
wings joining forces for this vital cause. Key partners in the campaign include the Indira Cancer
Trust, Nawaloka Hospitals and many more.

With breast cancer accounting for over 25% of all female cancer cases in the country, and more
than 3,000 new diagnoses each year, the need for early intervention and education has never
been more urgent.

Breast cancer awareness campaigns, like the Rotary Pink Pledge, are crucial in educating
women about the importance of early detection, empowering them to perform self
examinations and seek screenings. As many women in Sri Lanka remain unaware of these
essential practices, the Rotary Pink Pledge hopes to change this narrative.

Cultural Stigma and Awareness Challenges

In Sri Lanka, cultural barriers often prevent women from addressing health issues, especially
breast cancer. Fear, stigma, and misinformation often lead to delayed diagnoses, which can be
life-threatening. This campaign seeks to break down these barriers, normalize conversations
about breast health, and encourage regular check-ups for early detection.

Rotary’s campaign also aims to address gaps in access to early screening and treatment
facilities, especially in rural areas. By raising awareness and advocating for better healthcare
infrastructure, the Rotary Pink Pledge hopes to ensure that women across the island have access
to the resources they need.

Lifestyle and Preventive Care

An important aspect of the Rotary Pink Pledge is education on lifestyle changes that can reduce
the risk of breast cancer. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and preventive measures can lower
the risk of developing breast cancer. The campaign will focus on sharing these critical health
messages, empowering women to make informed lifestyle choices.

Support Beyond Awareness

Breast cancer affects not just individuals but entire families and communities. Through this
campaign, Rotary aims to provide emotional support and resources to patients and their
families. The campaign also recognizes the financial and emotional toll that breast cancer can
take and is dedicated to ensuring no one faces this battle alone.

Key Campaign Activities

1. Campaign Launch at Indira Cancer trust on 01st October 24, attended by the District
   Governor of Rotary International District 3220, Sushena Ranathunga as the Chief
   Guest, and legendary cricketer and humanitarian Roshan Mahanama as the guest of
   honor.
2. Rotary Pink Day: Members wear pink and promote awareness on social media.
3. Pink Ribbon Campaign: Distribution of pink ribbons, sharing breast cancer facts.
4. Self-Examination Tutorials: Hosting sessions on breast self-examinations.
5. Dedicated Club Projects: Volunteer efforts to support those affected by breast cancer.
6. District Social Media Campaign: Amplifying the message across platforms.
7. Supporting awareness walks – Organized by the National Cancer Control Program under
   Ministry of Health
8. Awareness campaign in popular shopping malls
9. Special discounted screening packages in partnership with Nawaloka Hospital.
10. Official Pink Pledge Website: Launched during the event, the site provides resources,
    event listings, and screening registration.
11. District & Club Events: Highlights include the “Rotary Pink Screen” movie day, breast
    cancer awareness walks, and the Pink Pledge Evening at Hilton Colombo on October
    29th.

In closing, the Rotary Pink Pledge reminds us that together, we can make a difference in the
fight against breast cancer.