Cheers to the Cure!

By Mick

In the month of October, most people’s thoughts are drifting toward pumpkins and cider, scarecrows and hayrides, turning leaves and trick-or-treating.  For the friends and family of the millions of women (and men!) whose lives have been affected by breast cancer, it’s a whole other story.

October is honored in the US as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and for millions of Americans it’s an opportunity to mobilize and spread the word about breast cancer detection and treatment.  There are numerous walks, races, rallies and other events to bring together those who have been touched by this high-profile disease to both inform the public about the importance of prevention and early detection and to raise money for research toward a cure.  While there are many worthy organizations, I’d like to focus on just one: Living Beyond Breast Cancer.

LBBC is a patient-focused approach with an active outreach to minorities, the newly diagnosed, and those with advanced breast cancer.  Their mission is to help those with breast cancer to live as long as possible with the highest quality of life possible.  LBBC has been realizing this mission for over 20 years, and an impressive 89% of their operating costs are dedicated to the programs and services they offer to breast cancer patients.  Through a partnership with Cline Vineyards, the Cline Cashmere label is a way that you can support breast cancer patients with just the tip of a glass!  Cline has been producing their Cashmere label since 2004, and they donate $25k annually to LBBC.  Unlike many corporate donations, Cline’s contribution isn’t an “up to” amount based on how much they can sell of a “pink-washed” product – it’s a check cut directly to LBBC, independent of their sales volume.  Cline Cashmere is symbolic of their commitment to the breast cancer community.

Cline Cashmere will be available at Open City throughout the month of October.  Cashmere is a silky and wonderful blend of Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Syrah.  This is a very flavorful, smooth wine offering big cherry, raspberry and chocolate notes with hints of cracked black pepper and plum.  Come try it for $10/glass, or $40/bottle.  At that price it’s a steal, and supports something you can definitely feel good about.

And ladies, remember to check yourself monthly!  Early detection is key.