BRA DAY USA for Breast Reconstruction Awareness

Singer/songwriter Jewel is spokesperson for Oct. 17 event to “close the loop”

The U.S. has joined 20 other countries in recognizing October 17 each year as National Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day. This international event is designed to “close the loop” on breast cancer by promoting education, awareness and access to breast reconstruction following a mastectomy. Singer/songwriter Jewel is the national spokesperson for BRA DAY USA and has written a song called Flower to benefit and reach out to breast cancer patients.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), research has shown that 70% of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer are not properly informed about their reconstructive options. The goal of National BRA Day is to ensure that all breast cancer patients are fully informed of their surgical options and supported by a team of medical professionals, including a plastic surgeon, working together for each patient’s best interest.

Jewel will perform her new song, along with her lineup of other hits, at a benefit concert Oct. 29 in New Orleans. Proceeds from the event will be used to support national and local breast reconstruction organizations.

“When I was writing this song there were a lot of survivors that came to mind and I’m always continually amazed at how resilient women are, and how when faced with a difficult position they find the courage to say, ‘I am going to fight on and I’m even going to be better.’ And that’s what made me want to write this song,” said Jewel.

BRA DAY USA is an initiative of the ASPS and The Plastic Surgery Foundation (The PSF). Jewel’s Oct. 29 concert will coincide with the 2012 annual meeting of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Source: American Society of Plastic Surgeons