Shopping for Cancer

Merchandise for a Cause

Jan 4, 2008 Tracy Stewart

Like it or not, the modern world is driven by consumerism. People strive to own the biggest, best, newest,and hippest stuff out there, and shopping is a national pastime. Serious illnesses are not excluded from the vast net of products-for-sale, and cancer merchandise is available in great quantities.

There is something to be said for shopping for a cause. It provides an outlet to feel involved in something you are passionate about, and provides retailers with a way to give to charities they would like to support. The trend towards this kind of merchandise seems here to stay, and for those who are interested in participating, there is no shortage of great stuff to spend money on.

Cancer Clothing

Wearing your feelings about cancer - loud and proud for the world to see - can be empowering. Online merchandise portals like cafepress.com have revolutionized the apparel industry, and provided a d.i.y. solution for those looking to express their feelings via cute t-shirts and hoodies. There are literally thousands of cancer related pieces of clothing at cafépress.

Some of the more fun and interesting offerings are:

• “I Fight Like a Girl”. Cool fight-themed cancer apparel.

• “I Have Chemo Brain”. Tees and hoodies for those who feel less than “with it” due to the effects of chemotherapy.

• “Save the Boobies”. Pretty self-explanatory. T-shirts and sweatshirts in support of breast cancer.

• “Chicks for Tits”. Tees and tank tops for sassy chicks looking to get behind the fight against breast cancer.

There is no shortage of “F*ck Cancer” and “Cancer is My B*tch” merchandise as well. Pick a favorite and wear it with attitude!

More Cancer Stuff

Beyond the apparel, you can get your hands on products for the home (think kitchen gadgets), the body (spa, make-up, and body products), and treat yourself to some bling (jewelry, pins, and keychains) – all in support of the fight against cancer. Some of the highlights here include:

• KitchenAid Cook for the Cure. An initiative from the kitchen giant offering a line of pink kitchen appliances and goodies in support of breast cancer. Fabulous!

• The Susan G. Komen Promise Shop. Gifts, jewelry, and apparel are all available here, with proceeds going to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

• Estee Lauder Pink Ribbon Collection. The cosmetics giant offers a line of pink beauty products, donating a portion of the proceeds to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

All said, if you feel like giving in to your inner (or not so secret) shopaholic, and doing it with the intention of supporting the fight against cancer, you won’t have to look to hard to find something that satisfies the urge. Whether you are a cancer survivor, have been affected by the disease through someone close to you, or are simply interested in getting behind the fight, remember to shop smart, have fun, and feel good about indulging in this not-so-guilty pleasure!

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