My Hope Chest Established the Official Breast Reconstruction Ribbon

SEMINOLE, FL--(Marketwired - Oct 1, 2014) - My Hope Chest, the only non-profit in the nation offering breast reconstruction surgery assistance for the uninsured and underinsured, is reintroducing the "Official Breast Reconstruction Awareness Ribbon" to the public this month.

In preparation for the 3nd annual "Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day" on October 15th, which is endorsed by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, My Hope Chest debuted the Breast Reconstruction Awareness Ribbon to spotlight issues of uninsured and underinsured breast cancer survivors in need of surgery assistance.

"The colors of this unique ribbon transition and transform, just like breast cancer survivors," said My Hope Chest Founder Alisa Savoretti.

The Breast Reconstruction Awareness Ribbon turns from pink, the original color and symbol of breast cancer, to white, known as a healing power, then blends into yellow, the color of hope, sunshine and new beginnings.

It's no secret that for decades, pink ribbons have been associated with breast cancer awareness, education and research. However, with so much focus on large organizations mistakenly thought to cover every aspect of the disease, the anguish of survivors that have undergone mastectomies to save their lives, but have not had reconstruction, has been grossly overlooked.

It's estimated that more than 22,000 uninsured patients underwent lifesaving mastectomy procedures in 2010 alone, with many left maimed and disfigured. My Hope Chest believes, with decades of survivors, the number that may have given up hope of feeling whole could be in the millions.

"We all hope to find a cure for breast cancer," said Savoretti, "But there is a huge population of underserved survivors living with physical and emotional scars that are a constant reminder of the disease. As a result, many feel less than whole, and are unable to heal completely and move past their cancer journey."

My Hope Chest deems October Breast cancer ACTION month and supports funding of grassroots efforts for the underserved need of breast reconstruction and education. Their mission focuses on the Celebration of Life and closure from the disease in body, mind and spirit. 

"When we see more advocacy and funding to help those who are left without reconstruction surgery as an option, then we'll be creating awareness where it's needed and making a difference to this silent epidemic," stated Savoretti. "That's why My Hope Chest created the Breast Reconstruction Awareness Ribbon and we continue to share the symbol every year."

More information: Call (727) 452-7705 or visit http://www.myhopechest.org.