A Night that Defined Compassion, Courage, and Care
This October, as pink ribbons flutter across the world, I’m reminded of an evening that embodied everything Breast Cancer Awareness Month stands for — compassion, courage, and care. On February 14th, the Blume Foundation, founded by Vaishali Dev and co-founded by Marti Nonemaker, hosted a deeply moving and empowering event titled “Boos & Boobs.”
It wasn’t just an event — it was a celebration of strength, beauty, and sisterhood, where laughter met learning and stories sparked inspiration. One of the most powerful moments came from Leslie Mouton, a celebrated television news anchor and public speaker, who shared her personal journey of survival. Her story reminded everyone that breast cancer awareness goes far beyond early detection — it is about dignity, hope, and the courage to heal.
Redefining Leadership: From Selflessness to Self-Love
Too often, women place themselves at the end of their own priority list — after children, family, careers, and communities. As nurturers, leaders, and changemakers, we are conditioned to give endlessly. But at Blume Foundation, leadership begins differently — it starts with self-awareness, self-respect, and self-care.
As Lucille Ball wisely said, “Love yourself first, and everything else falls into line.”
And as Rupi Kaur beautifully expressed, “How you love yourself is how you teach others to love you.”
These words are the heartbeat of Blume’s mission: empowerment begins within. When a woman learns to honor her own worth, she doesn’t just transform her life — she elevates everyone around her.
The Power of Pink: A Symbol of Strength and Grace
Now, as Breast Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, I wear a pink saree — not just as a symbol of awareness, but as a declaration of continuity. Pink, often seen as gentle or delicate, carries within it a quiet but unshakable strength. It is the color of compassion, healing, and hope — a hue that connects millions of women and families in shared courage.
For me, pink represents both the personal and the purposeful. It stands for grace under pressure, for the tenderness that coexists with tenacity, and for the truth that beauty and bravery bloom side by side. The drape of the saree mirrors the resilience of every woman who rises again — for herself, for her family, and for her community.
Vulnerability as Power, Self-Love as Survival
The women we serve at Blume Foundation remind us daily that vulnerability is not weakness — it is power in its purest form. Caring for oneself is not an indulgence; it is a responsibility.
The spirit of “Boos & Boobs” lives on through every act of courage, every moment of laughter, and every reminder that self-love is not a luxury — it’s a lifeline.
Keeping the Pink Spirit Alive
As we continue our mission at Blume Foundation, I invite every woman — and every ally — to take part in this movement of awareness and love. Schedule your screening. Call a friend. Check in with yourself.
Your health, your heart, and your happiness matter — today and always.
Together, let’s continue to lead with beauty, live with boldness, and keep the pink spirit alive — not just in October, but all year long.
