Mattress Firm promotes pancreatic cancer awareness in November

Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, November 5, 2012

HOUSTON — Bedding retailer Mattress Firm said today it is launching several initiatives to support Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in November.

Pancreatic cancer is the company's national charitable focus through its Mattress Firm Foundation, established last year in response to the need for funding, research and awareness. The foundation has contributed close to $600,000 and thousands of volunteer hours.

Mattress Firm officials said the foundation plays a significant role in the fight against pancreatic cancer, which they described as an under-funded and under-researched major cancer. Pancreatic cancer receives 2% of the National Cancer Institute's annual budget for research, making it more dependent on outside support and contributions, the company said.

The retailer's efforts this month include:

• Introduction of a new pillow in its Lux Living line on Nov. 5, with a portion of the proceeds from sales to benefit pancreatic cancer research and awareness through the Mattress Firm Foundation. The pillow is made of advanced memory foam to relieve pressure, stress and tension in the neck and shoulders, with a top layer of cooling Lux Gel working to improve circulation, officials said. The pillow is available in stores and online at www.mattressfirm.com.

• Donation of a portion of the sales of iComfort beds to the foundation. Mattress manufacturer Serta has agreed to donate up to $25,000, and Mattress Firm will match that donation for a total of $50,000.

• Local community events, including Purple Stride Walks. Mattress Firm has more than 1,000 stores in 28 states and more than 2,500 employees that host fundraisers and participate in events that support pancreatic cancer research and awareness. Employees in 25 markets take part in the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network's PurpleStride walks and awareness nights, and more than 450 participated in a National Call-In event in June.