The Unshaven Mavens are ditching the shaving and growing out their armpit hair for the final time this month in support of breast cancer awareness. Their poster slogan, “Pits for Tits,” distributed throughout Centretown, is indicative ofthe group’s quirky sense of humour.
Co-founders Amie Beausoleil and Malorie Bertrand say they created this fundraising campaign in 2011 as the female answer to the male-dominated Movember and Mustache for Kids campaigns. The group’s main goal has been to promote breast cancer awareness and early detection among younger women, says Beausoleil.
“We kind of sat down and said, there’s got to be something similar that women can do that’s as fun, as self-deprecating, that will bring awareness to a women’s issue,” Beausoleil explained.
While the Mavens have been successful, Beausoleil says other time commitments have forced an end to the campaign.
Beausoleil and Bertrand chose to target the armpit in the fundraiser since early breast cancer symptoms can sometimes be found through lumps, or swollen lymph nodes, in the armpit.
“We kind of put two and two together and said, ‘Wait a minute, this sounds like a really funny idea, let’s see if this could
work,’ ” says Beausoleil.
Proceeds from the campaign’s fourth and final year go towards “Rethink Breast Cancer’s Live Laugh Learn” initiative in Ottawa. Since 2011, the Mavens have raised $30,000, excluding this month’s total.
Rethink is a national charity that seeks to bring breast cancer awareness to younger women. Live Laugh Learn is a monthly gathering for women who are in treatment or post-treatment.
Nikki Byrne, manager of donor development at Rethink, says the Unshaven Mavens have contributed significantly to Rethink’s goals.
“Any message we can put out there to remind people to check themselves is a positive one,” says Byrne.
Shawna Ginsberg, manager of support and education at Rethink, stressed the importance of young women being familiar with their breasts. She says Rethink advocates a “touch, look, check,” or T.L.C, method.
“Really it’s about knowing your breasts, knowing what’s normal for them,” she says. “Touching them, looking to see if there’s any changes and then checking with your physician if you do notice any changes.”
Rethink has developed a free app to help young women become more breast aware. The “Your Man Reminder” app provides tips and allows women to schedule regular breast checks.
“You’re never too young to start thinking about your breast health,” says Ginsberg.
Those looking to participate in the campaign can register online at www.unshavenmavens.ca, and donations can be made there, as well.
Supporters have also been donating at the “pit stops” held throughout October. “Pit stops” are both a fundraising tool and a gathering place for the Mavens.
“It was basically a chance for the Mavens to sit down, laugh, compare progress, get some moral or follicle support,” says Beausoleil, “and create an open discussion for not being shamed for having body hair.”
The Mavens kicked off the campaign at Beau’s Oktoberfest in Vankleek Hill, where raffle tickets were sold and chests and heads were shaved. The final “Pit Bash” will be held Oct. 30 at House of TARG on Bank Street in Old Ottawa South.
The final “Com-pit-ition” will also be held at the Oct. 30 bash. Prizes will be awarded according to most funds raised and armpit hair growth.
Bertrand says the highlight of the night will be the judging of hair growth, while Beausoleil added that the “Pit Bash” is ultimately a night of celebration.
“It’s basically just a party and winning prizes and getting together and laughing,” says Beausoleil. “My cheeks hurt the next day and for a couple of days thereafter.”
Betrand said that while the group’s main goal is to raise $15, 000 this month, coming up short of the goal would not be a huge disappointment.
Still, Beausoleil confessed it would be nice to reach the goal and say they “grew out with a bang.”