Nearly all of us know someone – wife, mother, sister, daughter, grandmother, aunt, cousin, friend – who has been impacted by breast cancer. That’s why it’s so important to spread awareness and offer support to those whose lives have been changed by this disease.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women - except for skin cancers – and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women. More than 230,000 women in the United States will learn that they have breast cancer this year. Sadly, some 40,000 women will lose the fight this year against this cruel disease.
One of eight American women will face breast cancer during their lifetime. Breast cancer does not discriminate by race, ethnicity, economic status or age.
But behind these sobering statistics, there is some good news. Breast cancer death rates have declined steadily in recent years. Today, there are 2.5 million breast cancer survivors across the country – women who have fought this battle and won. Medical experts attribute these successes to earlier detection of the illness and improved treatment. Early detection and access to medical care are key factors in these positive trends.
Understanding the impact this illness has on the lives of our associates and customers, Kroger is continuing its commitment to finding a cure for this deadly disease and to helping women and their families find the treatment and resources they need to tackle breast cancer head on.
Key vendor partners who share our commitment to fighting this disease – and providing support to those who face it – are teaming with the Kroger family of stores once again in Giving Hope a Hand®.
This annual program will provide $3 million this year to dozens of local organizations fighting breast cancer in our communities across the country – supporting research projects, funding mammograms and educational outreach, and assisting local support groups for women and families. All of the funds stay in the hundreds of cities and towns where our customers and associates live and work.
Each year, thousands of Kroger associates across the country join the fight – as volunteers and team participants at dozens of fundraising events in our operating regions, including the Susan G. Komen For the Cure’s Race for the Cure® events, the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® program, and the Walk to Empower Mother’s Day events of Y Me™
Read about a special group of women - associates of the Kroger family of stores and of our vendor partners - who have battled breast cancer. They have bravely volunteered to share their stories – to offer encouragement, strength and hope to others fighting the disease. The stories on these pages will inspire and strengthen us all.