Award-Winning Recording Artist Jewel Named Spokesperson for the First Annual National Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day on October 17, 2012
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons launches National BRA Day to promote education, raise funds for research and improve access to women eligible for post-mastectomy breast reconstruction

Arlington Heights, Ill. - Today, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and The Plastic Surgery Foundation (The PSF) are launching National Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day, to take place on October 17, 2012. Renowned singer-songwriter, philanthropist and breast cancer advocate Jewel will serve as the national spokesperson.

This year, the U.S. and 20 other countries will join an international effort to increase awareness for breast reconstruction options after a mastectomy.

Many women, who have bravely battled breast cancer and made it through life-saving surgery, must also grapple with the reality of their new, altered silhouettes. The question remains, what's the next step? Unfortunately, research has revealed that 70 percent of women eligible for breast reconstruction are not being informed of their options. The goal of National BRA Day is to ensure that all breast cancer patients are fully informed of their surgical options and supported by a team of medical professionals working together for the patient's best interest.

Grammy-nominated musician, New York Times bestselling poet and humanitarian Jewel will be advocating on behalf of National BRA Day in the coming months, through media appearances and public service announcements. Jewel has written a song to recognize breast reconstruction patients and will perform a charitable concert on October 29, 2012 in New Orleans during Plastic Surgery The Meeting. Event proceeds will be donated to The Plastic Surgery Foundation and be used to support national and local breast reconstruction organizations.

ASPS President Malcolm Z. Roth, MD, said, "We are thrilled that Jewel will be lending her time, talent and humanitarian spirit to National BRA Day. We feel that her passionate voice will help bring awareness to this important cause, and inspire women who are on the road to recovery and a full life beyond breast cancer."

Stay tuned to Facebook.com/PlasticSurgeryASPS for more information about the National BRA Day song, fundraising concert, charity and corporate partnerships, local events and more.