October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, So Be Aware!

I usually wear black, but on this particular evening, I was bedecked in pink. For the occasion of the City of Hope's Spirit of Life Award, honoring Jan Arnold and Jim Nordstrom of Creative Nail Design, EVERYONE wore at least a hint of pink -- even the guys. The evening was a fund-raiser for the City of Hope's breast cancer research, and it was a record donation this year. From the dinner party, to the souvenir journal, to the silent auction, and the many fundraising activities by other concerned groups and individuals, this year more than $650,000 was raised. It's a tribute to Jan and Jim that so many people pulled out all the stops, and I think a new standard has been set for the event. Congratulations to them both.

This month we've followed up on a story about Lesa Perry, a breast cancer survivor. Last year, she shared her struggle with cancer and the outpouring of support she re­ceived from her coworkers and clients. We're happy to report Lesa is healthy and back at work, defying the odds doctors gave her two years ago.

Unfortunately, we have a very sad follow-up to another story. This month, Kym Lee of Galaxy Nail Products offers a personal tribute to her friend Barbara Van Brandenburg, who lost her battle with cancer in May.

We also learned of the passing of another old friend in the industry Fran Peterson Russo, in July. Fran logged time during her extensive beauty career with Develop 10, IBD, and Bianco Brothers, among others. NAILS wishes to express our sincere sorrow to both Fran's and Barbara's families.

There probably isn't a person among us who hasn't experienced the loss of someone they know to cancer. All I know to say is let's grieve for the losses and contribute whatever we can to the fight. And, most importantly, every woman must commit herself to monthly self-examinations!