Chrissy Amphlett’s ‘I Touch Myself’ Becomes Breast Cancer Anthem
The Divinyls’ classic “I Touch Myself” is now the anthem for breast cancer awareness. Olivia Newton-John, Sarah McLeod, and Connie Mitchell join Australian artists in recording a new version of the band’s hit song.
On April 21, 2013, lead singer Chrissy Amphlett succumbed to breast cancer at the age of 53.
According to the Australian Cancer Council, was passionate about spreading awareness of the importance of early detection of the disease. It was her wish that her song becomes the anthem for women’s health around the world.
As a tribute, her friends and family, the Cancer Council, and marketing communications agency JWT Sydney have turned her wish into a reality.
They launched a music video of “I Touch Myself” featuring breast cancer survivor Olivia Newton-John, as well as other leading female recording artists, including McLeod, Mitchell, Katie Noonan, Megan Washington, Suze DeMarchi, Deborah Conway, Kate Ceberano, and Little Pattie.
The I Touch Myself campaign, which coincides with Amphlett’s first death anniversary, is accompanied by a Web site of the same name, as well as a social media campaign that encourages women to share n Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Google+ how they have been touched by breast cancer using the hashtag #itouchmyselfproject.
“She sang it. She shouted it. And we couldn’t help but listen. Now Chrissy wants us to hear her words again. For breast cancer awareness. Chrissy gave us this song. This is her divine wish. Touch yourself,” the Web site reads.
The campaign is urging women to “touch themselves” in a bid to detect a disease early on.
“Early detection is one of the most important factors in beating breast cacner,” Katie Cliff, Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson said, adding that one in eight women in QLD would be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
“This campaign encourages women to get to know their breasts better – all women need to be breast aware and check their breasts regularly. It’s critically important that women who notice changes in their breasts see their doctor immediately.”