October is national breast cancer awareness month and Glendale Adventist Medical Center (GAMC) is hosting several events throughout the month to raise the public’s awareness. Under the umbrella of PINKtober, GAMC hopes to create buzz, promote early detection, celebrate survivors and remember loved ones who have lost the battle to breast cancer. Any time during the month of October, visitors, patients and the community can write their prayers, thoughts and well wishes on a pink ribbon card (available at the hospital) and hang them from the prayer trees located in the East Tower and West Tower lobbies at GAMC, 1509 Wilson Terrace.

According to the American Cancer Society, the most common type of cancer diagnosed in the United States is breast cancer, with more than 230,000 new cases reported each year. The most important tool in treatment is screening and early detection. Regular screenings can help catch cancer early, before it has spread and when the chances of survival are highest.

As part of reaching out to the community it serves, GAMC, in partnership with the American Cancer Society, will promote breast cancer awareness at the Glendale Galleria on Tuesday, Oct. 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. near the JC Penney court area, located at 100 W. Broadway. Educational materials about breast cancer prevention and the importance of early detection will be available to shoppers at the mall. GAMC educators will also be answering questions from the public.

A Mammogram Night will be offered on Tuesday, Oct. 25 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. It will be a pink-inspired evening of pampering, education and support while women get their mammograms. Participants will enjoy fun jazz music, pink goodie bags including free pink nail polish, pink nail files, pink refreshments, pink cupcakes and fresh fruit. GAMC physicians and the mammography and radiology staff will support and encourage open conversations about breast care, screenings and check-ups. This event is only for women receiving a mammogram that night. Event will take place at the Women’s Pavilion Mammography Center (waiting area), located at 1505 Wilson Terrace. Participants must meet certain criteria to qualify for a free mammogram. For more information, call (818) 409-8192.

On Sunday, Oct. 30 at 5 p.m., the GAMC Healthcare Foundation will offer Laugh for a Cause, a comedy night featuring comedian Maz Jobrani. The event will take place at the Alex Theatre, located at 216 N. Brand Blvd. in Glendale. This event will help fundraise for the GAMC cancer center and encourage laughter and friendship. Ticket prices vary depending on seat location. To purchase tickets, please call the Healthcare Foundation at (818) 409-8055.