Stand Up, Speak Out: Why Every Breast Cancer Journey Deserves a Voice
We celebrate the survivors, warriors, and caregivers of cancer patients for fighting on
October doesn’t just signal the year’s final quarter—it brings with it a wave of pink ribbons, stories of survival, and the ongoing fight against breast cancer.
This year, the World Health Organization commemorates Breast Cancer Awareness Month with the theme: “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters.”
Raising Awareness, Saving Lives
Every breast cancer story is personal. The disease affects not only the patient but also their families and loved ones. WHO recognizes the stories of courage, hope, and resilience that people—especially women—go through.
“This theme reminds us that breast cancer touches the lives of women and their families around the world differently, and that every journey deserves compassion, dignity, and support,” WHO stated.
The theme also reinforces the need for “compassionate, timely, and quality care for all,” regardless of background, income, or geography.
Breast cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women. In 2022, around 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer globally, and 670,000 lost their lives to the disease.
In the Philippines, the Department of Health notes that breast cancer continues to be one of the leading health concerns for Filipinas. In 2024 alone, the DOH recorded 33,079 cases. In response, the department has intensified its early screening and detection campaigns.
Icons of Hope
Various organizations continue to amplify awareness and share real stories. In February 2025, the I Can Serve Foundation launched a media campaign titled “Icons of Hope,” featuring members, volunteers, and influential figures from different sectors.
Among those featured in the campaign are:
- Movie Director Olive Lamasan
- Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) founder Cecile Guidote-Alvarez
- Beauty queen and image consultant Abbygale Arenas-de Leon
- Actress Maritoni Fernandez
Each woman shared her journey with breast cancer, inspiring others with stories of courage, vulnerability, and strength.
Breast Cancer Can Affect Anyone
Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate. It affects people across age, gender, and background.
While breast cancer is more common among women, men can also be diagnosed. Although rare, it typically occurs at an older age. According to the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, 1 in 1,000 men is at risk of developing the disease.
No One Fights Alone
Perform monthly self-exams, talk to your doctor about your risk factors, and don’t delay screening—especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.
While it can feel overwhelming or frightening, breast cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Though the path may be uncertain, early action brings clarity, options, and hope.
More on breast cancer awareness
WATCH: Stories of Hope And Change After Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Pink Ribbon Pride: Breast Cancer Survival Stories
Celine Cornejo: Remaining Positive Amidst The Challenge
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The World Health Organization commemorates Breast Cancer Awareness Month with the theme: “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters.”
The theme reminds everyone that every story of breast cancer patients and survivors deserves compassion, dignity, and support.
Icons of Hope is a media campaign launched by I Can Serve Foundation, one of the active breast cancer awareness organizations in the country. It features personalities from different fields on how they won and battled the Big C.
