Lending a Helping Hand for Breast Reconstruction

Inaugural BRA Day proceeds provide funding for breast reconstruction awareness, charitable care, and research

First launched in 2011 in Canada and on Oct. 17, 2012, in the US, Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day promotes education, awareness, and access regarding post-mastectomy breast reconstruction through question and answer sessions, lectures, flash mobs, fundraising parties, advertising campaigns, and community gatherings.

A collaborative effort between the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), The Plastic Surgery Foundation (PSF), plastic surgeons specializing in breast surgery as well as other healthcare professionals and breast cancer support groups, aims to reach as many women, their families, and friends as possible.

BRA Day 2012 was so successful that Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Fund grant programs will soon be in place for women needing financial assistance with breast reconstruction or wishing to learn about and explore options for the same.

Several grants of up to $10,000 each will be given to nonprofit organizations that either provide charitable surgical care or are committed to increasing breast reconstruction awareness and education. Grants awarded for the July 1, 2013 – June 30, 2014 cycle will be used to support programs, surgeries, or care within this timeframe.

BRA Day and the grants represent a giant step forward in helping women and their loved ones “Unfortunately, many women diagnosed with breast cancer are unaware of their breast reconstruction options,” observed Charles Verheyden, MD, Ph.D., PSF president. “These grants aim to provide funds for women to help close the loop on breast cancer.” BRA Day 2013 with being held Wednesday, October 16.