October’s Own Awareness Months
By Danyi Hu ’25, Kat Willson ’26, and Brie Goodly ’26, Staff Writer and Editor-in-Chiefs; Edited by Rebecca Liu ‘25, Head Editor-in-Chief
ADHD Awareness Month
ADHD is a mental disorder that is often associated with hyperactivity, inattention or impulsivity. Symptoms of ADHD start showing in childhood but may change as they grow into adulthood. Symptoms of ADHD can also differ in men and women, which causes difficulties in diagnosis at a young age. This year’s theme for ADHD awareness is “Awareness is Key!” This month is all about promoting awareness of the importance of early diagnosis and bettering the lives of those with ADHD!
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer affects many women in the world every day. This month is for people to learn about the basics of breast cancer, including its symptoms and risks. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in Canada and women above the age of 40 are recommended to regularly check for breast cancer. For more information, check out the National Breast Cancer Foundation for resources and information. Additionally, check out our article on GWest’s charity efforts on Breast Cancer Awareness, CIBC Run for the Cure, and more!
LGBTQ+ History Month
Though not as widely celebrated as Pride Month in June, LGBTQ+ History Month is specifically celebrated to bring awareness to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights movements around the world. Though October is chosen to coincide with National Coming Out Day on October 11th, the month of October also has many other celebrations for the community. International Lesbian Day is held on Oct. 8th, International Pronouns Day on the 16th, Asexual Awareness Week from Oct. 20th onwards, and many more!
National Cinnamon Bun Day (Oct 4)
Cinnamon buns are one of the most beloved sweet treats during the fall season. This very well-known pastry is created when a warm bun, made from a yeast-based dough, is swirled with a sweet mix of sugar and cinnamon. Centuries ago, Roman spice traders introduced the spice of cinnamon to Europe. The spice was eventually incorporated into European pastries, especially in Sweden. The modern-day cinnamon bun is said to be inspired by the Swedish pastry called a “kanelbulle.” Unlike an average cinnamon bun, a “kanelbulle” is traditionally made with cardamom and is topped with powdered sugar, instead of the sweet, cream cheese icing many of us are used to. National Cinnamon Bun Day was created in 1999 when Sweden’s very own Home Baking Council celebrated their 40th anniversary, and they used the celebration to honour one of Sweden's most well-known treats. Now, National Cinnamon Bun Day is observed annually on October 4th, so don’t forget to make some cinnamon buns to celebrate this unique holiday and the current fall season!
