Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day, or BRA Day, was first launched in 2011 in Canada and now will occur annually on the third Wednesday of October. It is an initiative designed to promote education, awareness, and access regarding post-mastectomy breast reconstruction. The campaign will kick off in the United States for the first time on Oct. 17, 2012, as BRA Day USA.
Singer/songwriter Jewel is the national spokesperson for BRA Day USA and has written a song, “Flower,” to benefit breast reconstruction patients. The talented artist will also be giving a charity concert to raise money and awareness. All proceeds for both the song and concert will go to support breast reconstruction research and patient care.
BRA Day USA is a collaborative effort between the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The Plastic Surgery Foundation, plastic surgeons specializing in breast surgery, nurse navigators, medical device industry representatives, and breast cancer support groups. These and other organizations, breast cancer patients, their families, and friends coordinate events on BRA Day USA, including question and answer sessions, lectures, flash mobs, fundraising parties, advertising campaigns, and community events.