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With the American Cancer Society estimating 230,480 new cases in 2011, breast cancer is a huge issue.

The good news: You can support sufferers, survivors and the search for a cure by participating in these upcoming events. It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, after all.

Fitness Events
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
Raising millions of dollars for the American Cancer Society since 1993, these walks fuel research and support thousands of survivors. Though the Philly event just passed on October 2, you can still sign up for their three remaining walks in either Wilmington or Pennsauken on October 23rd or in Lehigh Valley on the 29th.

Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure
Join a sea of pink-clad walkers on a 60-mile trek October 14th through 16th. With each participant raising around $2,500, the 3-Day for the Cure provides incredible assistance for the foundation’s research, scholarship and support programs.

Rena Rowan 5K Ribbon Run
Hosted by the Panhellenic Council at the University of Pennsylvania, this race begins in the heart of Penn’s campus and raises funds for the Abramson Cancer Center’s Rena Rowan Breast Center. The race has garnered $55,000 for the Center since 2000, and organizers look to top the $5,000 mark at this month’s event on October 23rd.

Save the Girls Bike Tour
Do you know what triple negative breast cancer is? The TNBC Foundation wants to raise awareness about this most aggressive form of the disease—and funds to research it more thoroughly. Join them on a 37 mile bike tour of Long Beach Island on October 16th to help them raise cash for their cause.

Parties
10th Annual Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball Extravaganza
At the inaugural event to be held at Broad Street’s brand new venue, Vie, on October 15th, guests should expect the works: lavish finger foods and cocktails, breathtaking décor and rousing live entertainment. All proceeds from the over-the-top party—including live auctions—will benefit the Philadelphia branch of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Northern Lights of Life at Longwood Gala
Enjoy an evening at the Conservatory at Longwood Gardens on October 15th, benefitting the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. Breast cancer survivors will put on a fashion show in outfits from local shops while attendees help themselves to food and drinks.

Brews for Boobies Pub Crawls
For the slightly more rambunctious crowd: five Philly pub crawls that cover eight bars in twelve hours—all for only $25. Join over 400 drinkers on October 8th for a crawl through either Center City, Old City, South Philly, Northern Liberties or Fairmount. With proceeds going to support the National Breast Cancer Foundation, there may not be a better reason to toss back a few. Spots are filling up fast, so sign up soon!

UPDATED: The Women of Beer
On October 25th, nosh through eight delicious courses at Midatlantic Restaurant and Tap Room, complete with 11 beer pairings brought to you by the ladies of Stoudts, Allagash, Dogfish Head, Victory, Ommegang and Rogue breweries. One third of your $150 ticket goes to the Philadelphia affiliate of Susan G Komen for the Cure.

UPDATED: Pink Roses Teal Magnolias Brunch
Now in its second year, this Sunday brunch helps support the breast cancer and gynecological work of the Cooper Cancer Institute, with seven New Jersey locations. The event brings together breast cancer survivors and their families with community supporters. It will be held at the Cherry Hill Crowne Plaza (2349 West Marlton Pike) from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on October 23. Tickets are $100.

Shopping and Deals
Premium Outlets Pink Event
For the whole month of October, a $10 donation to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation gets you 25 percent off at a handful of designer outlet stores. That’s what I call retail therapy.

Living Beyond Breast Cancer Skirts Event
Update your fall wardrobe at Skirt in Bryn Mawr to support Living Beyond Breast Cancer, an organization that works to improve quality of life for diagnosed women. Only on October 12th, donate $50, $100 or $300 to the organization, and get an equal amount in gift cards to be used on in-store purchases.

Know of an event we missed? Share it in the comments!