Oct
27
In my humble opinion this is an ad for people whose lives have been hit with the cancer stick. I like the personification of cancer in this ad because the experience of cancer can indeed feel like living under violent dictatorship, or being stalked by a serial killer. The anger and hatred expressed towards cancer in this ad is palpable – and a refreshing change from the heart-wrenching, super-depressing imagery of helplessness and victimhood that you so often see in materials related to cancer. Not that it won’t make you cry like a schoolgirl; just makes you do so with clenched fists.
And then – waaaayyyy on the other end of the spectrum – there’s this PSA, which, if I may say, is an ad for people who have no frikking idea. Like seriously, not even the faint and fluttering beginnings of a clue. The target viewer for this one seems to be a Maxim-magazine reader with no breast cancer risk factors and a permanent woody. Who doesn’t do his own laundry. Might still live with his parents. But, I guess if he’s into supporting breast cancer, he’s ok by me.
And one more – just in case you are under the mistaken impression that I’ve got something against things that are immature, kind of gross and involve bikini-clad models – check out this effective messaging about skin cancer.
Takes all kinds to beat cancer.
I was off on holidays for a week (missed you!), but I got back into town just in time to march in Richmond Hill’s Santa Claus Parade, in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.
It was a chilly day, but we were a rowdy group of volunteers, cheering and dancing to stay warm. Above is a photo of the whole group, in our bright yellow shirts (overtop of our sweaters and ski jackets).
Along the parade route, the crowds applauded and yelled back encouragement and support as we carried the Canadian Cancer Society banner and cheered, “Let’s make cancer history.” One man even added to our cheer: “In our lifetime!”
And by the time we reached the end of the 3.6-km route, we’d handed out hundreds of pins and cards that listed the “Seven Steps to Health.”
Thanks to my good friend Sonia — that’s me and her in the photo on the left — for organizing the Richmond Hill team of volunteers. Sonia and I have been friends since high school, and it was great to spend time together and support a good cause. And a shout-out to all of the volunteers, many of whom were high school students who gave up their Sunday to march with us and raise awareness about cancer: Derek, Emma, Sarah and Kanisha, you’re awesome!
If you’re interested in volunteering with the Canadian Cancer Society, you can find more information here, and you can find opportunities here, listed by province.
