‘Keeping A Breast’ of the issue

Over the next couple of months, Sudburians are going to see and hear a lot more about Keep A Breast (KAB) Canada. A unique non-profit organization, KAB Canada’s mission is to raise awareness about breast cancer and to familiarize young people about prevention practices, early detection and support.

Through programs and art events, KAB Canada strives to eradicate the disease by inspiring young people to adopt lifestyle choices that have long-term health benefits.

Breast cast exhibitions, one of KAB Canada’s key fundraisers, consist of creating plaster forms of the female torso, which are customized by leading artists then auctioned raise funds for breast cancer awareness programs worldwide.

KAB, its loving moniker, has been heavily active in the United States since 2001, and became a legal charity in Canada in 2008, after its first appearance at the three-day Pemberton Festival.

Co-founder Shaney Jo Darden said this about why she launched Keep A Breast all those years ago: “When our co-founder’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, we wanted to do something to support the cause, but we weren’t sure what. That’s when we realized there wasn’t really anything out there for us. We’d been doing art exhibitions and fashion shows for years, so we decided to go with what we were good at. We started doing plaster casts of breasts, sent them out to artists to be painted, raised money by selling them, and it really took off.”

With the support of recognized surfers, snowboarders, skateboarders, musicians and artists, KAB is able to reach out to youth and continue to raise awareness through educational programs. KAB has participated in various festivals and concerts, including the Vans Warped Tour, enabling them to impact thousands of young people.

KAB Canada is working towards a financial goal, which will allow them to produce the programs they have designed to directly involve and educate Canadians.

Next time you see someone walking down the street wearing an I ‘heart’ Boobies T-shirt (or bracelet), don’t be quick to judge, as it is in fact a Keep A Breast T-shirt, and it’s a great conversation starter.

Learn more about Keep A Breast and their mission to eradicate breast cancer through art, music, education and awareness.

You can check out Keep A Breast online at www.keep-a-breast.org or join the KAB Canada Facebook page.

Michelle Murray is on the board of directors for Keep A Breast Canada after becoming involved with the charity during the 2008 Pemberton Festival in Pemberton BC.

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