We can make a difference together.
These handmade polymer clay earrings are not only stylish and fun, but they also make a difference. 100% of the profits from Aster & Grace’s “Vanessa” style earrings in our signature dusky pink and deep red will go towards funding an internship with The RUBY Study. RUBY, or Reducing the bUrden of Breast cancer in Young women, is a pan-Canadian research study based at the University of Calgary (Calgary, AB) and Women’s College Hospital (Toronto, ON) that examines breast cancer in young women (40 years and under) in Canada.
The RUBY Earring project was inspired by two women who are very important to Team Vanessa. In the spring of 2021, Laurel, Vanessa’s youngest sister, and Shari, a dear friend of Tara, Vanessa’s assistant, were both diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Both women were 38 years old, mothers of young children, and were completely taken aback by their diagnoses.
Months later, both women are in recovery and are doing well. They are also both members of the RUBY Study. Vanessa and Tara knew that the connection between their loved ones and their experiences with breast cancer couldn’t go ignored. And so, the RUBY Earring Project was born. The goal of the RUBY Earring Project is to raise enough money to fund an internship with the RUBY Study in the summer of 2022. Every cent earned from the sale of these earrings will go towards this project.
You can get your own pair (or pairs) of RUBY earrings here.
Hear Laurel’s story:
Hear Shari’s story:
About the artist: Aster & Grace
Sophie is the founder and creator of Aster & Grace, an Ontario based small business. She began working with polymer clay during the pandemic and her passion blossomed into her business. As a young artist (at only 14 years of age!), she brings whimsy and style to her pieces. You can learn more about Sophie and see her incredible work on her website: http://www.asterandgrace.ca
About the study: The RUBY Study
RUBY, or Reducing the bUrden of Breast cancer in Young women, is a pan-Canadian research study based at the University of Calgary (Calgary, AB) and Women’s College Hospital (Toronto, ON) that examines breast cancer in young women (40 years and under) in Canada.
The RUBY study is being conducted by a Canadian network of breast cancer researchers and surgeons, and it includes 1,200 young breast cancer patients diagnosed before the age of 40. This study aims to address many questions and to identify optimal treatments for young patients and improve chances of survival. The Study is also currently developing a national web-based resource to assist women with overcoming the stress associated with a diagnosis of breast cancer.
We are committed to funding an internship with The RUBY Study, and this project will allow us to do that.
Learn more about the RUBY Study here: http://www.rubystudy.