Uplifting calendar
By Judy Gerstel
Toronto Star
September, 27, 2002
The second annual Breast of Canada calendar, designed to "promote awareness of women's breast health" and to "inspire conversation," is in more than 200 stores across Canada just in time for Breast Cancer Prevention month in October. The 2003 calendar features black-and-white portraits of women's breasts by Guelph photographer Melanie Gillis. All of the 26 amateur models, including a breast cancer survivor whose mastectomy scar is concealed by the hands of her daughters, are volunteers.
Last year, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation refused to accept proceeds from sales of the $19.95 calendar, deeming it too controversial. Instead, the money is going to the Canadian Breast Cancer Network, which represents more than 150 support and advocacy groups for breast cancer survivors.
You can get a sneak preview of the calendar at www.breastofcanada.com. Also on the site, information about submitting photos to the BoC 2004 calendar, which will be open to photographers from across the country.