Montessori Academy’s Pinktober Initiatives
During Pinktober, Montessori Academy actively promotes breast cancer awareness and fundraising through student and staff activities. As a predominantly female company, breast cancer awareness is especially meaningful, with one in eight Australian women affected by this disease over their lifetime. Our community’s efforts this October support the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s goal of zero breast cancer-related deaths by 2030.
To raise awareness among our students, children participated in hands-on activities such as decorating pink cupcakes, learning about human anatomy, and exploring why the colour pink is associated with women’s health issues. Meanwhile, Montessori Academy staff at each centre hosted morning tea events, shared personal experiences, and raised funds for breast cancer research.
Montessori Leadership’s Pink Ribbon Luncheon
On 18th October, Montessori Academy’s Leadership Team gathered at Head Office for a Pink Ribbon Luncheon. Over 40 employees attended, donning shades of pink and wearing pink sponsorship ribbons to show their support. Through this event, they raised more than $600 for the National Breast Cancer Foundation, adding to the overall contributions from Pinktober.
Director Colette Assaf shared her perspective on this meaningful cause: “Sadly, one in eight women in Australia will be directly affected by breast cancer in their lifetime. This cruel disease forever changes the lives of those who suffer, and everyone who knows them. It is crucial that we support research to improve how breast cancer is diagnosed, managed, and treated so we can work toward a future of prevention and understanding.”
Senior Area Manager Kellie Chahroura also highlighted the impact of such events on students: “As professional educators, it is our duty to guide the social development of our students and help them understand their world. By modelling behaviours that encourage social responsibility, charity, and stewardship, we are encouraging the future generation to be conscious members of their global community.”
Staff Stories and the Importance of Early Detection
Staff across Montessori Academy shared personal experiences to emphasise the importance of breast cancer awareness. Peggy Tu, an educator from Macquarie Park Montessori Academy, shared her story: “At the age of 22, I was diagnosed with a Phyllodes tumour. The tumour continued to grow, and after six surgeries, I had a mastectomy at the age of 30. I urge all women to regularly check their breasts. Early detection is the best prevention.”
Montessori Academy’s fundraising efforts this Pinktober raised over $1,000 through morning tea events, student activities, and parent donations. All funds will support life-saving research, prevention, and treatment efforts through the National Breast Cancer Foundation, which has committed over $12 million this year to fund more than 30 research projects.
How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam
The National Breast Cancer Foundation recommends a monthly breast self-exam to detect any irregularities, as 40% of diagnosed breast cancers are initially discovered by self-exam. Here’s a simple guide:
- In the shower: Place your right hand behind your head. Using your left hand, use the middle three fingers to apply pressure, moving from your armpit around the breast to feel for lumps.
- In front of a mirror: Observe your breasts with hands by your side, then raise your arms. Look for changes in skin, shape, or nipple. Place your hands on your hips, flex your chest muscles, and check for dimpling or puckering on one side.
- Lying down: Place a pillow under your right shoulder with your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, move your fingertips around the right breast and armpit, applying light, medium, and firm pressure. Squeeze your nipple to check for discharge or lumps. Repeat on the other side.
If you notice any changes, contact your GP to arrange an appointment.
Breast Cancer Resources
For more information, consider visiting the following organisations:
Donate Now
Please consider donating to fund research for prevention, detection, improved treatment, and quality of life: Donate to Montessori Academy’s Pink Ribbon Fundraiser