All - Leep Calendar

LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA AWARENESS MONTH: ADVOCATING FOR BLOOD CANCER PATIENTS Leukemia and Lymphoma Awareness Month is observed across the United States to raise awareness about these blood cancers and support those affected. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to finding cures and ensuring access to treatments for blood cancer patients, champions the event. THE HISTORY OF LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA AWARENESS MONTH The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society established Leukemia and Lymphoma Awareness Month to focus public attention on the challenges faced by those with blood cancers. Since its inception, the month has been critical for education, advocacy, and fundraising efforts to support research and patient services. Over the years, it has grown into a significant campaign involving communities, healthcare professionals, and policymakers nationwide. WHAT ARE LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA? Leukemia and lymphoma are types of blood cancers that affect the body's ability to produce and function properly. Leukemia—A cancer of the blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and lymphatic system. It results in the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells, which interfere with the body's ability to fight infections and produce healthy blood cells. Lymphoma—A cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, part of the body's immune system. It affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, and can lead to the growth of tumors in lymph nodes and other tissues. HOW DO PEOPLE GET THESE DISEASES? The exact causes of leukemia and lymphoma are not fully understood, but several factors can increase the risk: Genetic Mutations—Changes in DNA can trigger the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. Environmental Exposure—Exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, and infections can increase the risk. Family History—A family history of blood cancers can raise an individual's risk. Immune System Deficiencies—Conditions that weaken the immune system can make one more susceptible to these cancers. CAN IT BE PREVENTED? While there is no guaranteed way to prevent leukemia and lymphoma, specific measures can reduce your risk: Avoiding Carcinogens—Limiting exposure to known carcinogens, such as certain chemicals and radiation, can help reduce risk. Healthy Lifestyle—Maintaining a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco can support overall health and potentially lower cancer risk. Regular Check-Ups—Routine medical check-ups can help detect abnormalities early, leading to prompt intervention and treatment. HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA AWARENESS MONTH Educate and Advocate—Learn about blood cancers and share information within your community to raise awareness. Fundraise—Participate in fundraising events like the LLS's Light The Night walks or organize your events to support research and patient services. Volunteer—Offer your time and skills to support local LLS chapters or other organizations working to fight blood cancers. Donate—Contributions to organizations like LLS help fund research, patient support programs, and advocacy efforts. Support Patients and Families—Show kindness to those affected by blood cancers, join support groups, or simply be a source of encouragement. Leukemia and Lymphoma Awareness Month is a vital reminder of the impact of blood cancers and the importance of continued research and support. Through collective efforts, we can advance the fight against leukemia and lymphoma and improve the lives of those affected by these challenging diseases.

Africa

Sep

Library Card Sign-Up Month, Ntl.: September

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National Library Card Sign-Up Month, sponsored by the American Library Association, is a reminder to encourage parents to get their children a library card. What started as a challenge by the former Secretary of Education William J Bennett in 1987 is now an international campaign to infuse every child with a love of reading.

Africa

Sep

Life Insurance Awareness Month, Ntl.: September

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National Life Insurance Awareness Month seeks to raise awareness with people on the need for life insurance and the type of coverage needed, depending upon each person's unique situation. One in three households would have immediate trouble paying living expenses if the primary wage earner died, according to the 2016 Insurance Barometer Study by Life Happens and LIMRA. And the study also found that 40% haven't bought life insurance or more because they're unsure how much or what type to buy. This industry-wide campaign aims to educate Americans about life insurance's importance and help them get the coverage they need.

Africa

Sep

Liptember (AU): September

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LIPTEMBER: RAIDING AWARENESS OF WOMEN'S MENTAL HEALTH IN AUSTRALIA Every September, Australia observes Liptember, a campaign dedicated to raising awareness and funds for women's mental health issues. The Liptember Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to supporting mental health research, programs, and services tailored for women champions this event. HISTORY OF LIPTEMBER Liptember was founded in 2010 to address the unique mental health challenges faced by women. The campaign encourages women to wear brightly colored lipstick throughout September and seek sponsorships for their efforts. The initiative aims to spark conversations about mental health, reduce stigma, and raise vital funds for research and support services. MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES COVERED BY LIPTEMBER Liptember focuses on a range of mental health issues that disproportionately affect women, including: Depression and Anxiety—Women are more likely to experience these conditions due to a combination of biological, hormonal, and social factors. Postnatal Depression—Affects women after childbirth and can have significant impacts on both the mother and child if not addressed. Eating Disorders—Conditions like anorexia and bulimia are more prevalent among women, often linked to societal pressures and body image issues. Domestic Violence-Related Trauma—Women are more frequently victims of domestic violence, leading to complex mental health challenges. Menopause-Related Mental Health Issues—Hormonal changes during menopause can contribute to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. WHY ARE WOMEN MORE AT RISK? Women are at a higher risk for specific mental health issues due to a combination of factors: Biological Differences—Hormonal fluctuations throughout life stages, such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can impact mental health. Social and Cultural Pressures—Societal expectations and gender roles can contribute to stress, anxiety, and body image issues. Trauma and Abuse—Higher rates of domestic violence and sexual abuse among women lead to increased mental health challenges. Caregiving Roles—Women often take on primary caregiving responsibilities, which can contribute to stress and mental health issues. CAN THESE ISSUES BE PREVENTED While not all mental health issues can be prevented, specific measures can reduce the risk and impact: Education and Awareness—Increasing awareness about mental health can help reduce stigma and encourage early intervention. Access to Support Services—Ensuring women have access to mental health resources, counseling, and support groups. Healthy Lifestyle—Promoting regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can support overall mental well-being. Stress Management—Teaching stress management techniques and coping strategies can help women handle life's challenges more effectively. HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN LIPTEMBER Wear Bright Lipstick—Purchase a Liptember lipstick and wear it throughout September to spark conversations and raise awareness. Fundraise—Seek sponsorships for wearing bright lipstick and raise funds for women's mental health programs. Share Your Story—Use social media to share your experiences and encourage others to discuss women's mental health. Attend Events—Participate in Liptember events or organize your own to raise awareness and funds. Donate—Contribute directly to the Liptember Foundation to support their ongoing work in mental health research and services. Liptember provides a unique and engaging way to highlight the importance of women's mental health. By participating in the campaign, individuals can help break down the stigma associated with mental health issues and support the development of targeted programs and resources for women in Australia.

Africa

Sep

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Most of our food today is prepackaged, loaded with sugar, salt, and other things that make it taste good. Convenience has created a culture where 30% of adults are obese and 50% overweight. Worse, childhood obesity is now a norm, with 20% of children classified as such. Fat cells, once created, never disappear. They shrink or expand. These children have set themselves up for diseases that usually occur in middle age with a slowing metabolism, including diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Childhood obesity has become an epidemic and shows no chance of slowing. Because of this, President Obama created National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month in 2011. President Trump did not continue the month, but the CDC and other government entities continued to observe it. GEN X KIDS VERSUS GEN Z KIDS Going to school in the 1970s and 1980s, out of 1500 students, maybe ten were obese. Fat kids did not exist, for the most part. And yes, back then, we used the word fat. We played outside; computer games barely existed (we did have Pong and later Space Invaders and Pac-Man). To play them, you went to the arcade or pizza parlor and played standing up. We had Twinkies, candy bars, ice cream, and cookies, but most cakes and cookies we ate were homemade, not store-bought. Sweets were made with natural ingredients rather than fructose, extra sugar, preservatives, and trans-fats. Potato chips, soda, and treats were for special occasions, like when we had a babysitter, but not an everyday thing. Meals were homemade, not prepackaged, even though increasingly, both parents worked. We walked to school and were limited to two hours of television a day after homework. Bedtime was by 9 pm until high school. Yes, there was that annoying health food kick from the hippie movement Dad bought into for a couple of years in the mid-1970s. I still won't forgive him for spiking my orange juice with that horrible brewer's yeast or trying to convince me carob tasted like chocolate (eh...no). At school, we had an apple dispenser; candy and soda dispensers did not exist. It was a different time; overall, you didn't see fat kids. Fast forward 30 years. Rarely do you see children playing outdoors. Few walk to school, and you can always tell when the school year starts because your commute is twice as long with all those parents dropping their kids off. This month is about getting kids back to a healthy weight through education, increased activity, and better nutrition.

Africa