There’s something incredibly gratifying, almost magical, about the way mushrooms transform from mycelium to food heroes in mere weeks. Similarly, the immense love and support expressed by South Africans for breast cancer survivors through the Power of Pink campaign highlights the strength of community efforts in making a difference.
In a collaborative effort between Pick n Pay stores and the South African Mushroom Farmers’ Association (SAMFA), the Power of Pink campaign has become a beacon of hope and dignity for underprivileged breast cancer survivors. Through this campaign, funds are raised to support Reach for Recovery’s (R4R) Ditto Project, which provides reconstructive breast prostheses to women in need.
R4R, a non-profit organization run entirely by breast cancer survivors, uses the proceeds from pink punnet mushroom sales to procure individually fitted, colour-coordinated silicone breast moulds for survivors who have undergone life-saving mastectomies but cannot afford reconstructive surgery. These silicone forms, which typically sell for more than R3500 on the open market, are provided at no cost to recipients through the Ditto Project.
“We’ve achieved more than we thought possible, but the need is still great,” says Stephné Jacobs, R4R National Chairperson. “There are thousands of women in dire circumstances, and we are dedicated to supporting as many as we can.”
Since its inception, the Ditto Project has made a significant impact. Over 868 women without medical aid have been fitted with prostheses, and more than 6300 breast cancer patients in state hospitals have been visited and supported by volunteers, all funded by the Power of Pink campaign. These volunteers, many of whom are survivors themselves, provide care bags filled with information and support items to patients in need.
Ross Richardson, SAMFA Chairperson, echoes this sentiment, stating, “We are once again encouraged by the work of R4R and the willingness of ordinary South Africans to uplift those among us who have limited resources. Every time someone picks up a pink punnet of mushrooms, they’re not only supporting their own health, but they’re also helping breast cancer survivors regain their confidence and sense of self.”
The connection between fresh mushrooms and breast cancer prevention has been recognized for some time. Studies, including research from the Beckman Institute at the City of Hope Cancer Center, California, have shown that consuming just one button mushroom daily can significantly reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Additionally, a 2021 systematic review published in ScienceDirect found that higher mushroom consumption was associated with a lower risk of breast cancer and total cancer.
Breast cancer survivors like Rita Mphokwane, a beneficiary of the Power of Pink campaign, understand firsthand the life-changing impact of receiving a breast prosthesis. “My life changed once I received my prosthesis, and now I have the privilege of giving back as a Reach for Recovery volunteer,” she shares. “It’s heartwarming to see the joy and confidence restored in each woman we help.”
R4R’s work continues to inspire, driven by the words of author Emily Maroutian: “If you want to know where to find your contribution to the world, look at your wounds. When you learn how to heal them, teach others.” The Power of Pink campaign is not just about raising funds—it’s about transforming lives and fostering hope for breast cancer survivors across South Africa.
So, the next time you’re at Pick n Pay, be sure to pick up a pink punnet of mushrooms. Not only are you choosing a nutritious option for your meals, but you’re also contributing to the ongoing support of breast cancer survivors—because together, we are stronger.
The nutritional benefits of mushrooms are as impressive as their flavor. Packed with antioxidants like polyphenols, polysaccharides, selenium, and vitamin C, mushrooms offer powerful cancer-fighting properties, making them a must-have in a balanced diet. For those looking to incorporate more of this superfood into their meals, recipes like Hoisin Mushroom Cabbage Wraps—courtesy of SAMFA—are a delicious way to enjoy the health benefits of mushrooms.
Hoisin Mushroom Cabbage Wraps (Vegan) Serves 4
Ingredients:
- 1 small head red cabbage
- 500g mixed fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 Tbsp ginger, grated
- 100ml hoisin sauce
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small Mediterranean cucumber, julienned
- 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
- Mixed sesame seeds, for garnish
- Sesame oil, for cooking
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Method:
- Separate the cabbage leaves to create cups.
- Heat sesame oil in a pan, sauté mushrooms until golden. Add garlic and ginger, cook for another minute.
- Pour in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, stirring until mushrooms are well coated.
- In a separate bowl, mix bell peppers, cucumber, and a pinch of salt with rice vinegar.
- Fill cabbage cups with vegetables and top with the sticky mushrooms. Garnish with spring onions and sesame seeds.
This nutritious recipe is just one way to fuel your body while supporting a cause that changes lives. Breast cancer survivors, like Rita Mphokwane, can attest to the life-changing impact of receiving a silicone prosthesis through the Ditto Project. “My life changed once I fitted my breast prosthesis, and I see those life-changing moments in the faces of every recipient I have the privilege to assist,” Rita shares. Today, as a volunteer with R4R, she helps other survivors on their journey, providing both hope and encouragement.
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