October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. During the month, many survivors speak out about their experiences and show their support for breast cancer survivors and those currently undergoing treatment.

Part of October is dedicated to raising funds for research campaigns and cancer treatments. On the RCHS campus, during the week of Oct. 11-14, the RCHS Rising Meds Club hosted a fundraiser, where they would donate 25 percent of the money raised to multiple breast cancer charities.

“Twenty-five percent of the profit we make from the jewelry and bracelets go to multiple breast Cancer charities and funds,” junior Vanessa Lee, the president of the Rising Meds Club, said.

The Rising Meds Club sold bracelets and other fun jewelry in support of breast cancer research

“The process of knowing someone you love dearly is battling breast cancer is a very scary thought but the counselors at RCHS have your back,” RCHS counselor Ms. Brigitte Hughes said.

According to Hughes, RCHS counselors are equipped to help students who are dealing with any issues related to knowing someone with cancer or other terminal illnesses.

“One of our counselors is actually a breast cancer survivor, so we would refer the student to that counselor if they had any questions,” Hughes said. “Then we would also refer them to one of our Marriage and Family services if they need additional therapy services.”

Hughes recommends having a support system where students can explain and express their feelings during a difficult time can really help with the grief and pain that comes with seeing someone they’re so close to suffer and battle such a terrible thing. Hughes said that dealing with grief and pain can make school difficult for students.

“It can create a lot of people to lose focus on school and life in general and makes them focus on the negative instead of positive,” Hughes said.

Hughes stated that being surrounded by such a scary situation and traumatic situation can cause some to just want to give up, but by giving up people put themselves and their future in a difficult direction, but nonetheless, Rancho provides many opportunities and resources to help.