LiveStrong Wristbands: To Support, Show Off, Collect and Profit
Elysia Bandong
Issue date: 4/13/05 Section: Features
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The popularity of these yellow synthetic silicone/rubber wristbands is astounding; LiveStrong wristbands have become the "must have" accessory of everyone from Senator John Kerry to Jay Leno to the average college student. So, what's all the hoopla about?
Originally conceived by Nike as a tribute to Lance Armstrong's triumph in the Tour de France and his fight against cancer. LiveStrong bracelets have become as common as iPods on the subway. The wristbands have spread to many college campuses, including Pace University. They are, literally, everywhere. They are the new "What Would Jesus Do?" bracelets.
Felicia Loc said, "It is refreshing that students are taking part in the fight against cancer, even if it is simply a fashion statement."
What originally began with a simple, yellow show of support can now be found in a vast array of colors, supporting anything and everything from tsunami relief to American troops. There are pink bracelets that support breast cancer and the blue Michigan bracelets that donate proceeds to the new Mott's Children's Hospital. Although this sounds great, are people wearing them to actually support the cause?
Senior Mike Lenahan said, "[People who wear them for style] are posers. They wear it because they feel like they need to belong to something. It's total baloney. People should wear it out of individual expression and what they believe in."
Senior Therese Remo agreed, "I think that [people] are not wearing them for the right reason and by wearing the bracelet without knowing what it's all about, is a disgrace. Those people are ignorant."
Some bracelets don't support anything at all. Those bracelets are simply available for people to add to their collection. There are the "inspirational" ones that say "dream" or "wish." People have been seen with bands all the way up to their elbows.
Most people wearing the original, official wristbands are supporters of the Lance Armstrong Foundation's efforts to raise millions and help those living with cancer. Funding scientific research and developing programs are ways in which the foundation serves its mission to help people "live strong" with cancer.