BAPS Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month

On Sunday, October 21st, 2012, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Lilburn, was glowing in pink as it hosted its first Worship in Pink program. The program, in conjunction with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is an effort for local religious organizations to strive for educating members on the risks of breast cancer, led by the Greater Atlanta Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The effort is to ensure that women everywhere have the tools and knowledge to be educated about the disease.
Dr. Angelina Mehta, a naturopathic physician, was invited to speak to the congregation on the topic. “It’s not just about finding the cancer early, but it’s about how can we prevent it in the first place. That’s why it’s so important in hosting programs like Worship in Pink to encourage and educate women about breast cancer.” said Dr. Mehta.

Topics focused on sharing information about breast health, prevention of the disease, currently used methods of detection, and types of treatment options available. This not only provided guidance on determining the risk for developing the cancer, but also how women should receive breast cancer exams and mammograms. Dr. Mehta was able to reach a large audience ranging from young ladies to older women.

One participant Yogini Patel, 19, said, “I really learned a lot about how my lifestyle choices can affect my risk factor for breast cancer and the small changes I can make to lower my risk.”


Vimla H. Patel, a breast cancer survivor, moved the audience as she shared her journey in the fight against cancer. “I had the support of my family,” said Vimla, “and they kept me going...they were there for me from day one.” With the combination of early detection and unwavering faith, Vimla was able to beat breast cancer.

Attendees received free information packets on breast cancer, which included Worship in Pink bookmarks, breast self awareness cards, mammography cards, breast health basic cards and pink ribbons in support of the fight breast cancer. Many participants gained valuable information from these packets that advised them on important methods of prevention and early detection.



“It was like a sea of pink, everything from the people to the Mandir was pink. I think it was a great way to show our support for breast cancer.” said 14 year old Prima Modi.

The program concluded with a moment of silence to honor and remember those who have been affected by breast cancer. Programs such as Worship in Pink will help to encourage women be more aware of their health and educate them on what they can do to lead a better balanced lifestyle.


For more information regarding upcoming events, directions, and Mandir times please visit http://atlanta.baps.org or call 678-906-2277.



About BAPS

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a worldwide socio-spiritual organization in Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, is dedicated to community service, peace and harmony. Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families and individuals. Through a number of social and spiritual activities, BAPS endeavors to produce better citizens of tomorrow who have a high esteem for their roots - their rich Hindu culture. Its 3,300 international centers support these activities of character-building. Under the guidance and leadership of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is morally, ethically and spiritually pure, and free of addictions.



About Pramukh Swami Maharaj

Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, has inspired millions of people across the world to lead a God-centered, morally pure life. As the present leader of BAPS, Pramukh Swami Maharaj travels from village to village, continent to continent, emphasizing the importance of family harmony, community service and spiritual progress. He embodies the essence of Hindu life. His compassion for humanity, universal wisdom and striking simplicity have touched many world religious and national leaders.

Among social service charities, BAPS Charities is a well-respected and trusted name. It has amassed over 50 years of firsthand experience in initiating, managing, and sustaining 160 humanitarian operations throughout the world in such diverse fields as: medical services, environmental services, community services, tribal services, and disaster relief services.

For additional information on BAPS Charities and its international and local philanthropic activities, please visit www.bapscharities.org