October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this time every year we're hit in the face with everything pink. NFL players don rose-hued uniforms and the White House and Empire State Building are bathed in a pink glow. But what's behind all the colorful hoopla?
According to Breastcancer.org, over 200,000 women will be diagnosed with new cases of invasive breast cancer in 2014. That means about one in every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Surprisingly, about 85 percent of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of the disease, which means that technically all women are at risk. That's why early detection and regular exams are so important.
Even with all the pink in the air, you really don't get the sheer magnitude of this disease until it hits home. My best friend, a healthy, young professional and the mother of a young boy, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. I met Joy while training for a marathon and the tall, thin, athlete and I became close friends. That's her in the Fuck Cancer shirt the night before having a mastectomy, just two weeks ago. She's recovering and her prognosis is fantastic thanks to great doctors, early detection, and support.
So, this year, I will make it a point to eat and drink at these places that are raising funds and awareness for the cure. Because now it's personal.
See also: Drink Pink in October and Support Breast Cancer Awareness
MignonetteBreast cancer awareness really hits home for chef/partner Daniel Serfer. Serfer's mother, Marsha, passed away from the disease in 2002 and Serfer has since been a crusader for awareness and prevention. "Breast cancer really sucks. Every year, I try to do my part by raising as much money as possible in order to fight this horrible epidemic."
During the month of October, Serfer's Mignonette is adding a special oyster to its menu. Teaming up with American Mussel Harvesters, the chef has renamed his favorite Umami oysters the "Danny's Mom," with one dollar from the sale of each oyster going to the Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute at University of Miami Sylvester Cancer Center to help fund breast cancer research.
When asked how his mom would have felt about an oyster being named after her, Serfer, a new dad said, "I don't remember her feeling any particular way about oysters. But she did love vodka and champagne. And those go very well with oysters. That bring said, I think she would be very proud of me and happy about my wife and son. Although I think she would be disappointed that neither of my restaurants have full liquor and she would have to smuggle in her own."
Fontainebleau Goes Pink
The iconic Miami Beach resort turns pink during the month of October from dusk to 10 p.m. nightly in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness month.
In addition to this glowing display, the resort's restaurants are offering a special $39 prix-fixe dinner (not including beverages, taxes, or gratuities), with one dollar for every meal purchased to Susan G. Komen Miami/Fort Lauderdale.
Participating restaurants include Hakkasan, Scarpetta, La Cote, and Michael Mina 74, with most restaurants offering optional wine pairings form $25-35 additional.
