Midlo IB spreads breast cancer awareness

Instagram Live event gathers IB students to make breast cancer awareness ribbons

Photo by: Lisa Witherow
Lisa Witherow creates pink ribbons in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

During the month of October, people nationwide recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which aims to spread awareness about the disease that impacts men and women.  Ribbons are often used as a symbol to spread awareness about diseases: a pink represents breast cancer.

Midlothian High School is home to the International Baccalaureate program; this year, the IB Student Council used social media to involve students during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Through an Instagram Livestream, students joined a meeting, where IB historian Lisa Witherow gave viewers a walkthrough on how to create a ribbon. The tutorial required a few household materials, such as: pink cloth, a safety pin, and scissors. Witherow showed viewers how to create a ribbon that they could personalize and wear.

While livestreaming, she encouraged viewers to donate and fundraise to show support for the common cancer. In the comment section, Witherow provided viewers with resources on how they can contribute to the cause. In hopes of encouraging student involvement, Witherow shares that,  “I wanted to do something interactive and lift people’s spirits during COVID.” The virtual event concluded with all participants making multiple pink ribbons. Senior Olivia Nealon shares, “Breast cancer awareness is so important. Early detection is important with any cancer, but especially breast cancer. I loved making ribbons with Lisa and bringing our IB community together to support this amazing cause.”

On Friday, October 30, 2020, Midlo will host a pink-out to show support for Breast Cancer. For information regarding breast cancer, visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation