Postmark promotes breast cancer awareness

Postmark Pursuit by Linn’s Staff

Elvin S. Rivera is offering a pictorial postmark dedicated to breast cancer awareness. The special cancel depicts a sparsely leaved tree with its branches forming the shape of a breast cancer awareness ribbon and its trunk showing a similar ribbon design. The postmark also includes the phrase “we are stronger together,” a common slogan used to promote solidarity and support in the fight against the disease.

The idea of recognizing breast cancer awareness originated in the United States in 1985 as a collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical company Imperial Chemical Industries. The goal was to establish a weeklong event to raise awareness about the disease, promote early detection through mammography, and fund research.

Betty Ford (1918-2011), first lady of the United States from 1974 to 1977, brought national attention to breast cancer by publicly disclosing her diagnosis and becoming a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society.

In 1991 Evelyn Lauder, a cosmetics executive, introduced the pink ribbon as a symbol of breast cancer awareness, inspired by the yellow ribbons used to support American hostages in Iran. The following year in 1992, the pink ribbon became widely recognized as the official emblem of the breast cancer awareness campaign.

Finally in 2000, October was officially declared National Breast Cancer Awareness Month by the U.S. Congress and has grown into an international campaign that raises funds for research, educates women about the disease, and supports survivors and their families.

To obtain the postmark, address your request to:

65TH INFANTRY Station, Customer Relations Specialist, 585 Ave. FD Roosevelt, Suite 223, San Juan, PR 00936-9998, Oct. 16.

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