Speaking today (Thursday) following a event to raise funds for breast cancer research at Leinster House, Fine Gael Dun Laoghaire Deputy, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, called for women right across Ireland to get involved in the Irish Cancer Society’s new breast cancer initiative, entitled ‘Get the Girls’.

The initiative encourages women of all ages to come together and organise fundraising events, such as a cake sale, a ‘Come Dine With Me’ style dinner party or a movie night with the aim of raising much needed funds for breast cancer research.

“Tomorrow is pink ribbon day, where volunteers all across the country will be selling ribbons to aid breast cancer research. Women, and men, are being encouraged to get involved and to play their part in tackling this terrible disease.

“By buying a ribbon or organising a fundraiser, much needed funds can be raised to help the Irish Cancer Society to make the next ground breaking discovery which is not too far away.

“October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and by getting involved, each individual can ensure that women are educated on how best to protect themselves against this disease and that the services, where detection, treatment and diagnosis are concerned, can be delivered.
“Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in Ireland, with more than 2,500 women diagnosed every year. However, the disease has also been found to impact men, who should not ignore it as solely a woman’s issue. Survival rates for those who are diagnosed have gone up 30% in the last decade and with early detection and lifestyle choice the main keys to survival and avoidance, the power to get to grips with this disease lies, in part, with each one of us.

“I would encourage everyone to get involved in Breast Cancer Awareness Month by buying a ribbon, organising an event or simply taking the time to find out how best to protect yourself against breast cancer.”

For more information visit www.getthegirls.ie or CallSave 1850 60 60 60.