Individual people make extraordinary contributions in the fight against breast cancer each year. Yoplait® Champions honors 25 people who have demonstrated fantastic drive and commitment to the cause with donations of $1,000 to the Champion’s selected charity.
Barbara Bellinger
Bridgeport, CT
Building a Center for Excellence for Breast Care
When Barbara found out she had breast cancer in 1997, although frightened, she changed her mindset from “I’m going to die” to “It’s worth the fight.” She soon realized that, as an African American woman, she was up against frightening statistics of survival for her demographic.
Barbara, vice president of employee development programs at People’s United Bank in Bridgeport, Conn., decided to control her own health care. As a business woman, her project management and problems solving skills helped her create an action plan for healing: having fun, family discussions, conversations with friends and writing in her journal. She wrote throughout the process, both in the form of journal entries and prayers, and noticed how her concerns moved from herself to her family and into a more spiritual direction.
After winning her battle, it was clear to Barbara that she needed to share her experience and ensure more rapid diagnosis, counseling and education for women in her community. She formed the
Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center (NPBCC), a community- and hospital-based multidisciplinary-service center, dedicated to providing all services for breast health, from education to treatment, to all women regardless of their ability to pay. The Center provides breast health and treatment information to women, and helps them to weave a network of support as they make decisions, enter treatment and recover. In the past eight years, the Center has served 15,000 women, more than 2,000 of whom were uninsured or financially impaired.
Because of Barbara’s commitment, the NPBCC became the first Community Center for Excellence for breast care at Bridgeport Hospital, and in the State; with the first nurse navigators program, guiding women through the chain of tests, procedures and counseling that make up the breast cancer journey; the first community genetic risk assessment program for women at high risk of breast cancer and now serves the most women in Fairfield County; and the first center offering multidisciplinary care, from education to screening to treatment.
Barbara has also been involved in other organizations, including the Breast Cancer Survivor Center and the Witness Project, which increases awareness about breast cancer among African American women. Every other year, Barbara hosts a magnificent Victorian Tea in her home and proceeds are donated to the NPBCC. She published her story with Sisters Journey, a support group for breast cancer survivors, and speaks at community organizations and churches and has shared her story on NBC's Today Show during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, 2007. Outside of raising awareness for the cause, Barbara is an elected member of the Bridgeport Board of Education, a board member of the Bridgeport Public Education Fund, and a board member of the Community’s Bank in Bridgeport, Conn.
Barbara Harttraft
Hamilton, NJ
Teaching Others about Inflammatory Breast Cancer
For the past five years, Barbara Harttraft has been through a true life altering experience, as she fights her diagnosis of Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC). Her experience has inspired her to become a full-time Advocate of IBC, striving to make other women more aware of the signs and symptoms.
Barbara underwent exhausting treatments in 2002, with hopes of beating the cancer, but has since continued the battle, as it has spread to her lungs, right hip, right rib cage, and recently her brain. Inspired by her vision of eradicating breast cancer for her teenage daughter, Barbara fights through rounds of chemotherapy each month while distributing IBC information, participating in fundraisers and raising awareness online. In her quest to raise awareness, she creatively uses FireBall candy, individually labeled with "The Fire of IBC," to show they're "fired-up" about beating IBC. More than 15,000 FireBalls have been distributed with an IBC Web site tag attached.
Barbara speaks publicly about her experience every chance she gets, including IBC presentations to "Lunch and Learn" meetings at churches, businesses and hospitals throughout New Jersey as well as events for the American Cancer Society and Komen 3-day Walk for Breast Cancer. Due to Barbara’s extensive Internet networking, she was asked to join the Task Force on Cancer Prevention, Early Detection and Treatment in the New Jersey Breast Cancer Workgroup, part of the State of New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services.
Her various volunteer efforts are endless. Since early 2004, Barbara has been a telephone counselor to Cancer Hope Network, providing support to individuals seeking information about IBC. During the spring of 2005 and 2006, Barbara visited Rutgers University and the College of New Jersey to educate college students about IBC. Barbara has been a long-time participant in the Philadelphia Wellness Community IBC Support Group and was instrumental in the formation of the 1st New Jersey Wellness Community IBC Support Group.
Barbara’s fundraising activities include her participation in eight Race for the Cure events where she volunteers her time manning an IBC informational table with her husband, Greg. At each Race, the team distributes more than 1,500 brochures and more than 1,000 IBC-labeled FireBall candies. Further, Barbara’s race team, “Barb’s Bosom Buddies,” has raised nearly $10,000 in the past five years for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Additionally, Barbara has participated in the past four Fashion Shows for the fundraiser of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital of Hamilton.
Although Barbara’s personal battle with breast cancer continues, she remains dedicated to making sure other women find the support they need to help them survive. "I'm going to fight as hard as I can," she exclaims.
Carrie Wells
New York, NY
Ensuring Every Survivor is Empowered
Carrie was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2002 and did not just accept her diagnosis. Instead, she used the pains from her year of treatments to take control over her survivorship, channeling her energies into being a mentor and a source of support for others who have been diagnosed.
Carrie believes that being surrounded by other survivors and being able to share experiences is the key to a successful recovery. However, she also realized that there was no central database for survivors to search for retreats for their recoveries. Determined to change this, Carrie gathered existing retreat information, hired Web and graphic designers from her own pocket and worked tirelessly to launch
SurvivorsRetreat.com. The site offers a comprehensive, searchable database of cancer survival retreats, filtered by theme, participants, location and cost.
SurvivorsRetreat.com is only one of Carrie’s many passions. While fighting her cancer diagnosis, knitting became a stress relief technique for Carrie. After beating cancer, she organized a knitting night for a local cancer support organization, providing donated yarn to create chemotherapy caps and prayer shawls. All completed work is donated to women undergoing chemotherapy in under-served communities.
Carrie is also extremely dedicated to the 2-Day and 3-Day breast cancer walks as well as raising awareness among her teenage daughter’s friends through an annual fundraising party in New York City. Last year, more than 250 people attended and each of them donated at least $25 towards the cause. With this money, Carrie graciously funded walkers who were having trouble achieving their fundraising minimum. Carrie’s knowledge has also landed her the position as peer reviewer of medical research grants for the Lance Armstrong Foundation, the Komen Foundation and the Department of Defense for the past several years. She has helped to identify promising protocols while working alongside oncologists and scientists. The honorarium Carrie receives has been donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Avon Foundation and nonprofit cancer organizations such as Comedy Cures.
Carrie is a ray of hope, showing others how to take control over their diagnosis and demonstrate survivorship. She is evidence that the healing process starts from within, and involves getting out there and helping others. She has mobilized her family, her friends and anyone that comes to visit her site, to take control and to move beyond being victims of cancer.
Elizabeth Miniscalco
Chicago, IL
Providing Quality Care to Cancer Patients
Elizabeth Miniscalco had been an oncology nurse for 10 years, but that did not prepare her for the day she heard her own doctor tell her, “You have cancer.” Although it was a challenging time, Elizabeth saw the bright side: She could now more fully understand what her patients were going through.
Now, nearly 10 years later, Elizabeth continues to use her experience with cancer to benefit her patients at
Swedish Covenant Hospital, saying, “There could not be a better bond.” She is often called upon to counsel and comfort her patients, but goes above and beyond in making each patient’s health and well being her top priority.
Her selfless dedication to her patients was the driving force behind Elizabeth's motivation to create a Cancer Treatment Center that offers a multi-disciplinary approach to fighting cancer. Patients may now experience the powerful benefits of massage therapy, energy therapy, healing touch or laughter yoga during their chemotherapy sessions to help add a bit of comfort and stress relief. Because of Elizabeth’s efforts, Swedish Covenant Hospital’s Cancer Program has earned the Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Program with Commendation from the American College of Surgeon’s Commission on Cancer, which is the highest rank possible for this type of program.
Aware of the fact that a significant number of cancer cases at Swedish Covenant Hospital are breast cancer cases, Elizabeth has spent countless hours of research and planning to create a Breast Health Center at the facility. The center is complete with a Breast Health Specialist who addresses patients’ medical, psychological and social needs and personally navigates them through treatment—an important aspect of cancer care that Elizabeth can personally attest to. Elizabeth is also responsible for initiating a partnership with Necessities Bag, a nonprofit organization with the mission of supporting mastectomy patients with a bag full of information and supplies to aid recovery.
Elizabeth’s compassionate concern for the well-being of each patient has made a significant difference in the Cancer Treatment Center at Swedish Covenant Hospital. Time after time, patients commend the quality of care provided by Elizabeth and often credit her for making a difference in their outlook of fighting their own personal battle with breast cancer.
Haley Crider
Rome, GA
The Power of Pink
Haley Crider first experienced the harsh reality of a breast cancer diagnosis when her mother, Mary Jo, was diagnosed nearly two decades ago. Haley, who was in college at the time, supported her mother through surgery and treatment, and breathed a sigh of relief when her mother passed the five, and then the 10-year mark cancer free. When the doctors told Haley’s mother that she would need to battle through a second diagnosis, Haley realized that even though she has no control over this disease, she could raise awareness and help save the lives of other women in her community.
Haley took action and initiated Paint the Town Pink, a mammography awareness campaign now in its seventh year. One of the campaign’s major community events is the Pink Ribbon Tie-On, held annually on National Mammography Day. The event features a live, onsite four-hour radio broadcast while volunteers raise awareness by giving away wearable pink ribbons, pink ribbon car magnets and key chains, t-shirts and important educational materials.
Through the years Paint the Town Pink has included special emphasis mammography days, collaborative efforts with local college sororities and a growing volunteer effort to raise awareness throughout Northwest Georgia. In 2007, Haley and her team of volunteers encouraged women with a new theme, The Power of Pink, an empowering message for women and their loved ones to take charge of their breast health. Volunteers sold 1,250 t-shirts with pink-ribbon tattoo designs and donated the proceeds to Cancer Navigators, a new cancer resource and advocacy group in Northwest Georgia.
As a public relations professional, Haley has channeled her enthusiasm and creativity into a campaign that has raised awareness and earned state and national recognition. “I am fortunate that I can combine a job I love, skills I’ve honed and a passion that I have. My mother survived her cancer because of early detection, and if I somehow contribute to saving just one life, then I have done my job. This is someone’s wife, sister or daughter. This could be a little boy’s mother. This is personal and professional, and it’s a message we have to get out to women everywhere.”
Heather Cobb
Tulsa, OK
Using Experience to Help Others
Breast cancer is a constant in Heather Cobb’s life. At the young age of two, and again in college, she watched her mother battle breast cancer. After losing her mother to the disease, Heather faced her own battle at age 28. Since that time, Heather has been a strong force as she raises awareness and fights for a cure, offering support and resources to young women diagnosed with breast cancer in the Tulsa, Oklahoma, area.
In addition to her role as a mother and wife, Heather is committed to making herself available any time for breast cancer patients. As the official contact person for the Tulsa Community Volunteer Group for the YSC, and the “go to girl” at her oncologist’s office for newly diagnosed patients in need of advice and support, Heather uses her infectious personality and positive attitude to encourage breast cancer survivors to fight. She continuously looks for opportunities to further her intellectual growth, regularly attending conferences, workshops and seminars.
Heather has played active roles in the Tulsa affiliates of the American Cancer Society, Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Most recently, she was instrumental in setting up a Community Volunteer Group for the
Young Survival Coalition in Tulsa, totally focused on educating young women through action, advocacy and awareness.
Additionally, Heather was selected to participate in the grant review process for both the Department of Defense’s Breast Cancer Research Program and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Her selection is proof of her dedication to finding a cure for breast cancer, as well as her knowledge of the disease. Further raising awareness for the cause, Heather participates in media interviews, abandoning her fear of being in front of the camera or on the radio.
In true Champion form, she has taken a tremendous personal challenge, and has allowed herself to be transformed into an educator, advocate and spokesperson for the growing number of young women diagnosed with this disease.
Jennifer Johnson
Overland Park, KS
Celebrating Life After Cancer
Jennifer Johnson learned the importance of performing breast self-exams in 1992 as a volunteer spreading the message of breast cancer awareness and education with her college sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha. In 1999, at age 27, Jennifer found her own lump and was diagnosed with breast cancer while five months pregnant with her first child. The day following her last chemotherapy treatment, Jennifer delivered a healthy baby boy; and in 2003, Jennifer and her husband Matt welcomed yet another blessing, their daughter. She proved that life does continue after a breast cancer diagnosis and has committed herself to enjoying life and helping other women realize this possibility.
Jennifer is a co-author of the book,
Nordie's at Noon, which shares the personal stories of four young professional women diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 30 or younger. Once a month, Jennifer and her friends; Patti, Jana and Kim, met at Nordstrom's Cafe in Overland Park, Kansas, for lunch. It was their special place to laugh, cry, support, and educate each other and celebrate the journey of life after a cancer diagnosis.
Jennifer is also very active with nonprofit organizations and her college sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha. She travels the country speaking to college women, reminding them to be proactive about their health, and demonstrating that you are never too young to get breast cancer. Most recently, in July 2007, Jennifer shared her story with over 500 collegiate women at the Zeta Tau Alpha National Leadership Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. Jennifer is active in P.E.O. (a women's philanthropic educational organization) and her church. She also volunteers for several breast cancer organizations, including the American Cancer Society's Reach to Recovery program, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the Ribbons of Pink Foundation Fund, the Young Survival Coalition, and the Pregnant with Cancer Network.
Jennifer is dedicated to helping those stricken by cancer, fearing they face unbeatable odds, realize life after cancer is more than possible, it’s incredible.
Jill Binkley
Atlanta, GA
TurningPoint Helps Thousands in Atlanta
Jill Binkley, a two-time breast cancer survivor, was first diagnosed with breast cancer eight years ago. Inspired to survive by her three young children and husband, Jill underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. These treatments left her with upper extremity limitations and pain, as well as lymphedema. As an experienced physical therapist, she utilized physical therapy and exercise to improve these conditions, and began to realize that she had much knowledge to share with fellow breast cancer survivors.
In 2003, she founded
TurningPoint Women’s Healthcare, a nonprofit organization that specializes in rehabilitation services and wellness programs for women with breast cancer. As a major organization in Atlanta dedicated to breast cancer survivor issues, TurningPoint has reached thousands of women. Since its inception, TurningPoint has expanded its clinical services and survivorship support programs to two clinics in the metro-Atlanta area and has three additional outreach programs to increase access to services for rural and inner-city women. TurningPoint offers physical therapy, massage therapy, counseling, nutritional counseling and educational programs for women during and after their breast cancer journey. TurningPoint is staffed by a team of women who are passionate about and specialized in breast cancer. A large part of the mission of the organization is to educate the community and other healthcare providers about the side effects of breast cancer treatments and the importance of rehabilitation in helping women move from surviving to thriving after breast cancer.
Jill is proud to be a part of the TurningPoint staff and volunteers who have created a place where women can find physical, mental and emotional support regardless of their age, race or economic status, offering many educational programs free of charge and a financial assistance program for clinical services. In addition, TurningPoint offers breast cancer rehab training to physical and occupational therapists as well as information programs for nurses, radiologists, oncologists and surgery professionals. Jill further strives to grow the program; her intuition for the needs of fellow breast cancer survivors has led to the development of a Mothers with Young Children and Stage IV support group, as well as sponsorship of a breast cancer dragon boat paddling team, Dragon Boat Atlanta.
Through her ability to translate her own breast cancer battles into something positive that offers support to women across Atlanta, Jill exemplifies what it means to be a true advocate and leader in the fight against breast cancer.
LeRoy Butler
Jacksonville, FL
Determined to Find a Cure for His Daughters
Former Green Bay Packers safety LeRoy Butler has no problem wearing pink for the cause. His dedication to fighting breast cancer and raising awareness inspired the now retired football star to discover another side of himself, the charity businessman.
At a game in 1998, LeRoy noticed a fan wearing a pink ribbon on her jersey. He asked her the purpose of the ribbon and she explained that it stood for the fight against breast cancer, a disease that had taken her mother’s life. Having four daughters of his own, LeRoy realized the importance of this cause and promised the fan that when he retired, he would dedicate his time and energy to raising awareness.
LeRoy kept his word by starting
The LeRoy Butler Foundation for Breast Cancer in 1998. He now spends the majority of his time raising money for individuals fighting breast cancer and their families. LeRoy and the foundation have raised more than $400,000, which has been used to fund research, provide financial assistance, assist with breast cancer treatment costs, and provide breast health education to women and men in the area.
LeRoy continues his fight each day, for both the fan that inspired him to make an impact, and for his daughters, who he hopes will never have to face the disease. LeRoy encourages others to help join in this worthy cause, and allowing us all to become teammates in the struggle.
Lillian Matsumoto
Honolulu, HI
Representing Community, Family and Hope
Lillian Kehau Matsumoto remained dedicated to increasing breast cancer awareness and educating individuals about the importance of early detection through all three of her battles with breast cancer, first in 1994, and again in 1998 and 2002. Knowing that native Hawaiians experience a higher cancer burden, she declared it her personal mission to help other women in Hawaii win their battles with breast cancer.
Lillian’s mission drove her to become involved in local organization,
Imi Hale (Native Hawaiian Cancer Network), and now serves on the organization’s Community Council. In this role, she is responsible for reviewing and ensuring the cultural appropriateness of processes and projects impacting native Hawaiian participants and communities involved in cancer programs and research projects statewide. As a City and County of Honolulu employee, Lillian is very much in touch with the community; she lovingly shares her experiences with patients and offers encouragement throughout diagnosis and treatment.
This includes talking with women in her church, promoting American Cancer Society's Friend-to-Friend Program at health fairs, and sitting one-on-one with women going through the breast cancer experience. As a member of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life Planning Committee, Lillian was instrumental in starting an event for survivors who were unable to walk around the track, by encouraging these individuals to rock their way around the track in designated rocking chairs. Lillian also participated in a video created by Imi Hale through funding from Susan G. Komen for the Cure that was recently awarded a Certificate of Merit by the National Information Health Awards Program.
On a national level, Lillian has taken her story to Capitol Hill. In May 2007 Lillian was one of 200 advocates selected as a cancer survivorship delegate by the Lance Armstrong Foundation and provided an opportunity to raise awareness about the numerous unaddressed issues faced by people living with cancer before Congressional leaders. Lillian’s dialogue with Hawaii's Congressional leaders (Senators Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka and Representative Neil Abercrombie) resulted in their commitment and sponsorship of the National Cancer Act of 2007 that calls for a comprehensive Federal effort in early detection of, treatments for, and prevention of cancer.
Through Lillian’s strong relationship with God, her sons and her community, she has been able to make a difference in every life she touches. She continues her mission of saving lives, preserving a culture, and leaving a legacy of health and well-being.
Linda R. Johnson
Philadelphia, PA
Mission to Educate
What began as volunteer hours at the National Black Leadership Initiative on Cancer became a true passion for breast cancer survivor, Linda Johnson. After two years, Linda stepped forward to accept the position of Chairperson for NBLIC of Southern New Jersey, and has taken on raising awareness of the fight against breast cancer among her fellow African American neighbors like a true Champion.
In her new role, Linda has developed many new partnerships throughout the state to aid in her mission to eliminate breast cancer disparities in New Jersey. She has always believed that education is one of the key factors in helping African American women understand that breast cancer does not equal a death sentence. By demonstrating that adopting lifestyle changes can make a difference in health outcomes, she has led several pilot studies and initiatives within the African American community to bring attention to their needs.
In addition, Linda is also the Program Coordinator for the
Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (NJCEED), in Mercer County, where she continues to promote the need for screening and treatment services for breast cancer. Most recently, Linda drove the development of The Confident Woman Program along with the Simone Protective Cancer Institute, which provides breast health education and services to African American women in faith-based and community organizations in the Greater-Trenton Area, which includes clinical breast exams, education on breast self-exams and assistance with access to healthcare and patient navigation services. Many of these services are provided by fellow African American breast cancer survivors and volunteers from the community.
Understanding the strength of sharing personal experiences, Linda is also extremely open about her fight against breast cancer, as seen through her play “Where’s Shirley?” The play provides insight into her battle with the disease in hopes of spreading awareness among fellow African American women everywhere. She has also become a recognizable voice and champion for all women in the Greater-Trenton area as a talk show host on WIMG radio.
Linette Atwood
Parkville, MO
Providing Resources to Others
After receiving the news that her doctor detected abnormal cells in her breast tissue, Linette decided against the doctor’s advice to wait for surgery and took direct action. After experiencing cancer’s devastating impact on her father- who died of stomach cancer, her husband- who died of leukemia, and her sister- who lost her battle with breast cancer only a few months earlier, Linette decided to immediately schedule prophylactic bilateral mastectomies. Results following her surgery showed that she did indeed have breast cancer. Since it could have taken up to five years for any symptoms to show, Linette’s choice to opt for preventative surgery saved her life.
After her recovery, Linette found herself at a personal and professional crossroad. After reaching great success as the founder of a medical publishing company in Kansas City, Missouri, she wondered if her 25 years of experience could be dedicated somehow to helping other women survive cancer, as she did. Strongly believing that information equals hope for individuals diagnosed with cancer, she embraced her vision for a comprehensive nationwide patient resource outlining the best treatments and facilities available for various types of cancer. With that goal in mind and with her amazing focus, Linette created
Patient Resource: A Cancer Treatment and Facilities Guide for Patients and Their Families. To ensure that cancer patients and their families have access to the new guide, her company, Patient Resource Publishing, provides the guide to oncology offices and cancer facilities at no charge for distribution to patients.
"Cancer is a life-threatening disease which requires a completely different approach than a chronic illness," she has noted. "The treatment you choose in the beginning can determine your long term chance for a cure. I wanted to provide a cancer patient with every option available in making such critical decisions.” Linette also recently developed a Web site www.patientresource.net, allowing cancer patients from across the country to share their journeys with each other and reach out for strength and inspiration.
Today, Linette calls herself a breast cancer survivor in hopes that others will also fight back with the best weapon they’ve got- information.
Mary Ellen Scherl
Englewood, NJ
Sculpting for the Cause
Growing up, now well-respected artist Mary Ellen Scherl witnessed the ravaging affect of breast cancer and its often profound affect on self-esteem and body image. As the daughter of a 30-year breast cancer survivor, sister-in-law of a 15-year breast cancer survivor and friend to countless survivors, Mary Ellen asked herself, “What if my art could help fight breast cancer, not just depict it?”
Mary Ellen had always concentrated her art primarily on women’s issues relating to body image, self-esteem, self-confidence and self-acceptance. Having spent years creating art celebrating inner and outer beauty, challenging standard beauty conventions and exhibiting at shows benefiting cancer foundations, she realized she could do something much bigger to raise breast cancer awareness.
Determined to make a difference, Mary Ellen formed
Mamorial, an art-based, breast cancer awareness, nonprofit organization with the objective of motivating breast cancer screenings. Mamorial is a traveling exhibition of art moldings that depict cancer-affected chests of both men and women. Her installation is a collection of life-casts in each stage of the fight against breast cancer, through which Mary Ellen hopes to make people confront the unseen reality of breast cancer and realize that we must find a cure.
As the mold is made over the survivor’s breast Mary Ellen’s art has become a healing process for many participants. There are approximately 80 casts currently displayed with more than 150 more casts currently in production. Each life-cast is an exact replica of the participants’ chest, including scars and lumps, and is hand-dyed to match the individual’s skin tone. Survivors from 23 states have participated and Mamorial continues to grow due to nationwide support. Mary Ellen hopes to expand Mamorial to other parts of the country, with hopes that it will become a powerful symbol for the fight against breast cancer, similar to the way the AIDS quilt has come to stand for support, love and tribute.
Mary Ellen believes that each Mamorial participant is an artist, shaping the world in which we live, creating awareness and understanding, and contributing to the healing of others.
Mary Olsen Kelly
Honolulu, HI
Finding the Pearl
Mary Olsen Kelly views the pearl as the metaphor for her life; a triumph over adversity. Having worked at the Black Pearl Gallery for years, she often contemplated the process of the formation of a pearl – created when an oyster, confronted by an “irritant,” applies thousands of layers of pearl material and actually transforms the intruder into something of great rarity and beauty: a pearl. Mary speaks to groups now, and writes books and articles urging others to “look for the pearl” in every difficult experience.
Mary was diagnosed with breast cancer on August 3, 2000; following her diagnosis, much like other breast cancer patients, she underwent two surgeries, eight rounds of chemotherapy and seven weeks of radiation. However, unlike other women in her position, Mary did not consider her experience a “fight,” rather a period of self discovery through which she was able to realize her true calling in life: to support other women and men through their breast cancer diagnosis.
To aid in her own recovery, she read every book available for breast cancer patients, attended countless support groups and conducted extensive research on breast cancer treatments and resources. Mary turned to writing as a form of therapy, believing that recording her experiences at the time would help her to successfully overcome challenges that lie ahead in her future. She soon realized that her writing expressed a great amount of truth and knowledge. Hoping that sharing her experiences with other women and men trying to overcome the disease would provide them strength and support, she compiled her notes into a “tools and tips” list that Mary began to pass along to individuals at support groups and speaking engagements.
Today, Mary is the author of three books dealing with breast cancer and healing, including: Path of the Pearl: Discover Your Treasures Within, #1 Best Tools and Tips from the Trenches of Breast Cancer and she is co-author, with Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen, of the best-selling Chicken Soup for the Breast Cancer Survivor's Soul. Most recently, Mary collaborated with
'Understanding Cancer', an ongoing series to involve, inspire, and inform about all things cancer. Mary hopes that individuals who are touched by her experience are inspired to transform the challenges in their own lives and to look for the pearls.
Nancy Davenport
Newport News, VA
Access to Care for Everyone
Nancy Davenport-Ennis’s battle with breast cancer began more than 17 years ago, when she was diagnosed in 1990 and again in 1991. In 1992, she battled the disease again, only this time through her dear friend, Cheryl. As Nancy watched her friend fight the disease as well as her insurance company, she understood that much work needed to be done to ensure that women with breast cancer receive the treatment they deserve. Nancy spearheaded the creation of breast cancer reform task forces that eventually lead to the passage of state legislation in Virginia, Tennessee and Missouri. After attending Cheryl’s funeral in December of 1994, Nancy decided to take her dedication to raising awareness to the next level and took the first step to what has become a lifetime of devotion to fighting to end the disease.
In 2005, Nancy and her husband Jack began drafting business plans to start the
National Patient Advocate Foundation (NPAF) and
Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF). The NPAF is a policy organization headquartered in Washington, D.C., that seeks to improve access to healthcare through regulatory and policy initiatives at the state and federal levels. The PAF is a direct patient services nonprofit organization which provides attorneys and case managers to assist with errors and approvals within private and public healthcare programs.
Because of her incredible commitment to breast cancer, Nancy has implemented numerous initiatives through NPAF and PAF that assist breast cancer patients along with their families. These initiatives include establishing national outreach programs for Hispanics/Latinos, African Americans and American Indians/Alaskan Natives, which provide education on the importance of early detection, lifestyle habits and various case management studies for breast cancer patients. Nancy also established the CoPay Relief program in 2004, which assists insured patients who are financially and medically qualified and are being treated for breast cancer. With the support of partners, Nancy was able to establish a Hurricane Relief to financially and emotionally assist 125 breast cancer patients displaced by Hurricane Katrina and Rita. Nancy has also forged a partnership with the CDC for Cancer Prevention and Survivorship and assisted in the establishment of the 2003 ABC initiative, which resolves billing issues for cancer patients.
For more than 17 years, Nancy has paid tribute to her dear friend Cheryl through her unwavering devotion to other men and women fighting breast cancer. She has never backed down, despite the obstacles, making her an absolute Champion for the cause.
Nancy Jaynes
Plymouth, IN
Pink Ribbon License Plates Become Rolling Billboard
When Nancy Jaynes was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998, she was uncertain of what lay ahead. Displaying the courage and strength that she is respected for by family and friends, she fought through chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Once in remission, Nancy reflected on her incredible journey and the amazing personal growth she experienced through the fight against breast cancer. Thankful for the support she received, she was eager to show others that they could also fight breast cancer.
To help raise money to combat the disease, Nancy founded the Breast Cancer Awareness License Program, through which a portion of the profit from each license plate with a pink ribbon sold in Indiana ($25) is donated to the
Indiana Breast Cancer Awareness Trust. The Trust has grown to be a large board of breast cancer supporters who volunteer many hours and support local organizations’ efforts to improve access to breast cancer education, screenings, diagnosis and treatment locally.
In January 2001, Nancy presented her idea to the Senate. At first it was rejected, but her perseverance helped land approval in spring 2001. Since its implementation, the Trust has received $700,000 and has awarded $445,000 to almost 25 nonprofit organizations in Indiana that provide support, screenings and educational materials to breast cancer patients. Benefiting organizations include, for example, La Porte Hospital Foundation, which offers free mammograms to uninsured women and men. In the past three years, the program has provided more than 150 mammograms to individuals who would not have been able to seek the screening otherwise.
Because of Nancy’s incredible dedication to raising awareness around breast cancer in Indiana and ensuring that all women and men, regardless of financial status and insurance coverage, are able to receive proper screening and treatment, she was asked to run the Olympic Torch in Fort Wayne, Indiana, a true indicator of the immense impact her project has had on her community. Nancy knows her perseverance has paid off when she thinks about each individual who has received free screenings, education and treatment from the funds raised through her program.
Neel Stallings
Charlotte, NC
Shouting for a Cure
Neel Stallings is very passionate and vocal about fighting breast cancer. Her sister’s mastectomy in 1996 sparked her original involvement in launching the first Race for the Cure® in Charlotte, NC, and her own diagnosis in 1999, just six weeks after stepping up to co-chair the Race, strengthened her resolve not only to fight this disease but also to help other survivors. As a result, she works tirelessly and enthusiastically enlisting everyone she meets to join her in her quest for a world without breast cancer.
Neel uses her voice and compassion by “Shouting for the Cure” locally, nationally and internationally.
Locally, Neel helps other survivors by giving them support, resources and a listening ear. She started a support group at Wachovia in Charlotte where she keeps 68 known survivors linked together and informed, even after her recent retirement. Neel led Team Wachovia from 197 participants to consistently over 1,000 participants, winning the “Largest Corporate Team Award” all 11 years of the Race and making Team Wachovia is one of the largest teams in the country.
Neel also volunteers her time and expertise as a professional facilitator and trainer to train diverse speakers to go into the community and educate people about breast health. Together they have educated thousands of people.
Nationally, she volunteers her time to facilitate leadership development and team building courses at Susan G. Komen for the Cure to help Komen Affiliate volunteers from around the country be more effective leaders in their communities. In 2003, she was the Affiliate Representative to Komen’s national board of directors.
Most recently, Neel was honored to be selected as one of 25 delegates to represent the USA at Susan G. Komen for the Cure’s 2007 Ignite the Promise: Global Advocate Summit in Budapest, Hungary. She was further selected as one of four facilitators for a Summit session entitled, “Making the Case for an Early Detection Program,” which had representation from eight countries. Neel was described by one of the Komen leaders as “facilitator extraordinaire!”
Neel will not stop "shouting for a cure" until there is one. Her dedication and compassion make her a true Champion in the fight against breast cancer.
Neile Jones
Rogers, AR
Courageously Broadcasts her Message
"Here's the deal, no one wants to get a mammogram," says Neile Jones of Fayetteville, Ark. As the anchor for KNWA-TV, the NBC news station serving Northwest Arkansas, Neile jumped on the chance to use her job to raise awareness around the fight against breast cancer.
Neile’s outlook on breast cancer and life itself has been strongly shaped by her relationship with her grandmother, Klober. As a young girl, Neile could not fully understand Klober’s experience as a breast cancer patient and survivor, but as both aged and developed into close friends, Neile began to realize what a life-changing experience it had been and felt indebted to those who had helped save Klober’s life.
In hopes of helping other women conquer their own fears toward getting mammograms, Neile volunteered to allow cameras to follow her through her experience of having her first. Neile’s commitment to her community and to eradicating breast cancer continued from there through the creation of
Project 11- Side by Side, Saving Lives, Raising Awareness. Through Project 11, Neile encourages community members to register for the program that reminds them each month to follow through with their monthly breast self-exams. This special monthly project encourages each member to talk openly about breast health with friends and family, and raises awareness of the risks of developing breast cancer and options for treatment.
On the 11th of every month, KNWA takes raising awareness to the next level, through turning the television station into a breast cancer awareness vehicle. On this day, Neile includes special stories about local women fighting breast cancer and offers ways to support the cause. Project 11 also includes a "thoughts and prayers" blog, a community blog for which Neile regularly posts entries and lists local resources and information about breast health.
Neile’s fight against breast cancer extends to the community outside of her work. She closely collaborates with the Ozark Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, serves on their Media Committee and is an honorary member of the board for Help Oncology Patients Excel (H.O.P.E.). In 2005, Neile spearheaded "Team Neile" and raised more than $10,000 for the fight against breast cancer. She was also awarded the 2005 Cameo Award for her breast cancer awareness volunteerism efforts.
Neile’s genuine compassion for her community is instantly obvious as is her kindness for everyone she meets. She believes she is an ordinary person using whatever platform she can to make an extraordinary difference, and is determined to reach as many community members possible through Project 11 and related breast cancer awareness efforts.
Palmer McInnis
Houston, TX
Raising Awareness by Raising Livestock
In 2005, Palmer McInnis’ stepmother, Carla, lost her battle against breast cancer. Stricken by grief and yearning for a way to honor Carla’s memory, Palmer considered his own life and what opportunities he could take on to raise awareness.
Palmer had been raising a heifer at the time for the Pasadena Livestock Show and Rodeo and recognized the auction as an ideal opportunity to honor Carla. He announced his intention for all proceeds from his heifer to be donated to
The Rose, a nonprofit, community-based medical center offering breast cancer screening diagnosis and treatment that had diagnosed Carla and consistently supported her throughout her treatment. Palmer’s heifer was voted Grand Champion in Breed and he was able to donate the $11,000 prize earnings to The Rose that year.
Recognizing the success from the year prior, Palmer decided to do the same fundraising scheme with his new goat Poncho, for the following year’s auction. Palmer painted Poncho pink and tied pink ribbons around its neck to further cement his efforts to raise awareness, and to ensure that all bidders understood that proceeds would be donated to The Rose. Unknown to Palmer, local companies had decided prior to the auction that they would help him raise money for such an important cause, bidding on the eighth-place goat until the funds raised reached $115,000. This was a truly historical moment not only for the rodeo, but also for The Rose and Palmer himself.
The Pink Goat Society is The Rose's tribute to Palmer McInnis, which allowed for the start of an endowment fund and a special society of corporate and individual donors. With Palmer's gift last year, The Rose was able to provide 18,000 mammograms and 35,512 medical services, with more than 10,000 of these services at no cost to uninsured women.
Palmer’s story is one of love and selflessness. Many 18-year-old young men compete in the Pasadena Livestock Show and Rodeo, hoping to earn money for college, but Palmer selflessly dedicated all funds raised to The Rose in honor of Carla, proving himself mature beyond his years and dedicated to a truly important cause.
Patricia C. Lauzze
Bath, NY
Translating Cancer into Something Beatable
The moment the doctor said the word, "cancer” to Pat Lauzze in July 2000, she translated that diagnosis into a vision: “surviving.” She delved into cancer resources in the Finger Lakes region of New York and was astonished to find few available. Pat gained the strength to defeat her breast cancer diagnosis and decided to dedicate her time to making sure no other woman was left asking, “Now What?” following a breast cancer diagnosis.
In the summer of 2006, Pat approached the
Wellness Council of the Southern Tier, a cancer education and screening program, to propose the creation of an educational series about cancer geared toward cancer patients as well as their families and the community at large. With funding from the Wellness Council and support from the American Cancer Society, Pat was able to make this dream a reality. "Coping with Cancer" is now in its fourth season and has been a great success, attracting partners from the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute, and covering important topics such as, nutrition for the cancer patient, end of life care, legal services and clinical trial information.
Pat, dedicated to furthering the fight against breast cancer, most recently established the Steuben County Cancer Task Force. This group joins various cancer organizations and resource agencies across the Western part of New York State, including the Wellness Council, with the goal of providing the community comprehensive cancer information and resources. One of the crucial services provided by the Task Force includes distributing cancer patient resource information to primary care providers and practitioners, to ensure that patients understand their healthcare options.
Pat is highly respected and admired by those around her. The Wellness Council calls her, “a source of strength and hope for others and a true Champion and friend.” Her insight, talent and compassion have led many cancer patients to contact her, and to feel less alone as they struggle with medical terms, treatment options and survivorship issues as a result.
Peggie Sherry
Tampa, FL
The Face of Courage
Peggie Sherry, two time breast cancer survivor and founder of
Faces of Courage, has lived life with a true passion for helping others and embracing the unknown. Following her own breast cancer battle in 2003, Peggie founded Faces of Courage, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing life-enriching experiences for children and families impacted by cancer, with hopes to ensure that women and men facing life threatening diseases received education, encouragement and support.
Peggie utilized her background in the bank industry and as a television producer to create and manage Faces of Courage. She currently serves as Founder and Executive Director of the foundation, which provides free workshops, outings and overnight camps structured to foster encouragement and empowerment within attendees; and specifically runs the Faces of Courage overnight Women’s Cancer Retreats and camps for children.
Outside of her foundation work, Peggie created the Polka Dot Tour, a more than 1,800 mile road trip traveled by motorcycles, RVs, and cars bringing survivors, sponsors and supporters across Florida. The outreach program works to promote courage, strength, endurance, comradeship, and attitude in an effort to raise awareness around the fight against breast cancer.
Peggie is also working with a professional team of highly recognized doctors on the creation of Cancer Answers 101. An education program (similar to Lamaze) consisting of 12 one hour videos that will include information from leaders in the cancer field, touching on topics such as dealing with insurance companies, how to tell family, friends, and co-workers about a diagnosis and ways to stand up for health benefits, patient responsibilities, treatment options and side effects.
Peggie strives to be a source of courage to those around her, and finds inspiration in those she helps each day.
Roberta Schwartz
Houston, TX
Creating a Voice for Young Survivors
At the young age of 27, Roberta faced the challenge of her life when her doctor told her that she had an early stage, but aggressive form of breast cancer. Roberta’s life was turned upside down as she underwent chemotherapy treatments and a mastectomy. Determined to not let the disease push her down, Roberta set out to learn everything she could about the disease.
She soon realized that information for young women with breast cancer was scarce and was even more surprised to realize that many of her doctors and nurses were uncomfortable treating such a young patient. Roberta understood that there was something she could do to change this. She and two other breast cancer survivors, both under the age of 35, joined forces and organized the
Young Survival Coalition in 1998, an organization dedicated to improving the quality and quantity of life for those under 40 with breast cancer. The organization has met continued success over the past nine years, as Roberta, Joy and Lanita have reached 23,000 members through their Web site (receives 80,000 site visits per month), bulletin boards (receives close to 38,000 hits per month) and annual conference with educational materials and information.
Embracing the motto, "Action, Advocacy, Awareness," Young Survival Coalition members provide education and support to young survivors and their caregivers at nationwide meetings, teleconferences, through DVDs and on the web. In addition, members attend conferences as advocates, educate federal and state legislators, speak at universities, colleges and health fairs and put on an annual awareness campaign targeted at the medical community. Roberta hopes the work of the organization will encourage doctors and scientists to delve deeper into finding out why some women face the disease so early in life.
Roberta also volunteers for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. As the chair of the New York City Race for the Cure in 2001, she helped to raised $1.7 million for the organization. For her volunteer work, Susan G. Komen for the Cure awarded her the 2003 Jill Ireland Award for Volunteerism and she was named “Woman of Courage” in 2007 by the Houston Hadassah.
In addition to her efforts to fight breast cancer, Roberta is senior vice president at The Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas, where she helps thousands of people each year. Her passion and dedication are admired by all who know her, especially her husband whom she met during chemotherapy, and her three children.
Sean Gladieux
Greensboro, NC
Coins of Commitment and Compassion to the Cause
After his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer, Sean Gladieux wanted to do something for his soul mate, Jill, to show her that he would never leave her side and that together they could beat her diagnosis. Both law enforcement officers for the Greensboro, North Carolina Police Department, Sean and Jill have had more than 25 years combined experience in a field of honor and integrity.
Sean wanted to embody the strength and courage that his wife and every other breast cancer victim and survivor showed every day in their fight. He decided to design coins for breast cancer victims to show his support for the cause and raise money for breast cancer research. Sean partnered with a local foundation,
Friends for an Earlier Breast Cancer Test, in Greensboro, North Carolina, to sell the coins online and at local events. He took his mission on tour, telling his and Jill's story, "soul mates," from Georgia to Michigan and selling the cancer survivor coins in more than a dozen states and as far away as the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Since the creation of the coins, Sean has partnered with branches of Curves for distribution, has authored a special section of the Regional Cancer Center's Journal and Resource Guide for women with breast cancer and has participated in multiple interviews with local television stations promoting the importance of self breast exams, the need to find a biological test for breast cancer, and how to support family and friends affected by breast cancer. To date approximately 700 coins have been sold and $7,000 raised for Friends for an Earlier Breast Cancer Test.
Despite Sean’s dedication to promoting the coins and raising awareness, he has remained by Jill’s side as she has undergone numerous operations, including her first lumpectomy and four chemotherapy treatments. The couple gains strength and courage from one another, and continues to fight for their love.
Sean’s coins have done more than raise awareness and money; he has spread hope, showed tremendous compassion and enduring commitment to the fight against breast cancer and to Jill.
Sharon Marler
Anthony, ID
Slamming the Fear out of Mammograms
Sharon Marler, a 25-year breast cancer survivor, feeling a need to assist other women fighting the disease, embraced her own experience and recognized that she had an immense amount of knowledge to share with others. Sharon put her thoughts on paper, and wrote a book titled, MammySlammy: Mammograms with Courage and Humor.
The book addresses the reasons why Sharon and her friends hold mammogram parties. Sharon realized there were others who, like her, may once again be told the cancer was back. She, and her friends, decided to erase all the excuses and avoidance by turning the annual ‘glamour shot’ into a celebration of life. It provides an innovative way to make mammography fun and stress-free as women wisely join together to ensure their good health and quality of life, by celebrating each appointment with friends, chocolate, gifts and balloons. The success of the parties, and the encouragement from her husband, daughters, and friends led her to write, MammySlammy: Mammograms with Courage and Humor. The book has won both state and national awards declaring it an inspiration to all.
After recognizing the book’s success in reaching women, Sharon decided to take a more active approach in the fight against breast cancer and other health issues. She founded the Women's Health Awareness Team (WHAT), with the goal of raising money not only to provide mammograms for those without insurance or financial means, but also to lessen the financial burden for those who need assistance to and from treatment. WHAT hosts a health fair focused on prevention and early detection by providing female attendees reduced-fee mammogram screenings and The Pink Tea, an event that allows women to share information and stories, celebrate those who have survived breast cancer and remember those who have lost the battle.
Sharon frequently serves as a keynote speaker at various cancer, and non-cancer events. She teaches seminars and workshops, and uses her positive attitude, knowledge base, and delightful sense of humor to motivate others to overcome trials and achieve greatness. These characteristics aided her in bringing the first Relay for Life Event to Anthony, Idaho, and managing the event for the first two years. This year Relay for Life will be held in Rexburg, a neighboring community, with Sharon’s successor leading the event. Sharon will continue her work with the Women’s Health Awareness Team’s annual health fair, and the Pink Tea.
Sharon Marler is dedicated to helping Idaho fight breast cancer; her energy and creativity involve the entire community in raising awareness.
Jeanne Fitzmaurice
Bend, OR
Gal Pals Fight for the Cause
According to "Chief Gal," Jeanne Fitzmaurice, when passion and purpose collide magical things will happen.
Fitzmaurice is among the lucky few who have reached that magical point in life. After journeying through her own personal trials and alternate career paths, Fitzmaurice decided to create and dedicate a Website business and its related non-profit group—
designhergals.com and the Gal to Gal Foundation—to raising funds and awareness for Stage IV breast cancer patients.
Stage IV, or metastatic, breast cancer is the most advanced type. A Stage IV diagnosis means that the cancer has spread outside of the original tumor site. Many notable and duly credited organizations support breast cancer research, prevention and early-stage treatment. But the level of resources dedicated to people living with Stage IV cancer is much lower, in comparison.
It was several years ago that Fitzmaurice’s cousin, Robin, died from breast cancer. Since then another dear friend of the Board of the Gal to Gal Foundation, Janis, also died from Stage IV breast cancer. Through their courageous battles and openness about living with and dying from cancer—Fitzmaurice came closer to understanding the needs and desires of women with the Stage IV diagnosis. They allowed her to witness firsthand the challenges and even opportunities created by this life-altering disease.
Jeanne Fitzmaurice’s business philosophy can be summed up by the phrase "purpose before personal profitability." In 2005, she launched
designhergals.com, a Website focused on the celebration of women. Her goal was to make the website a tool that would allow women to express their individuality and build a community of support, in addition to raising money and awareness for late-stage breast cancer.
The Website was designed to be fun, interactive and some would even say addictive. Women (and girls) can create their own virtual likeness (by selecting skin tone, eye shape, body type, hairstyle and color) and "style" (by choosing from 100’s of outfits and accessories) and have that "Gal" produced on an assortment of personalized stationery and gift items. Design-her Gals presents a world of fashion and fun, where everything in your closet always fits, and everyday is a good hair day . . . even if you may have lost it all in chemotherapy. Not to worry, the site also lets you choose a scarf in lieu of a hairstyle.
Design-her Gals donates 5 percent of its gross sales to the Gal to Gal Foundation, a non-profit foundation dedicating 100% of its resources to Stage IV causes. The Foundation identifies and supports organizations that are making meaningful contributions to the lives of people with Stage IV breast cancer.
In 2006, Design-her Gals pledged $100,000 for the late-stage breast cancer cause, and Fitzmaurice set a goal of donating $1 million over the next three-years. Her hope is that money will in part be used to sponsor a nationwide online resource for people with advanced-stage breast cancer. In addition, these funds will also be used to help Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation grant the wishes of Stage IV breast cancer patients and their families. In January, the Gal to Gal Foundation gave their first $20,000 to Making Memories.
By many measures, it would seem that Fitzmaurice has been successful in growing her business. Through the support of 150,000 community members, Fitzmaurice’s hope is that her voice and message on behalf of Stage IV patients is heard throughout the nation.
Andrea Ivory
Miami, FL
Breast Cancer Buddy
Throughout Andrea Ivory’s recovery from breast cancer, she kept thinking about those who were losing their fight against the disease because they lacked awareness and access to health care. This spurred Andrea to establish
The Florida Breast Health Initiative (FBHI) in 2005, to raise breast health awareness and increase health care access for women who are uninsured and underserved by the health care system.
By conducting grassroots neighborhood outreach, FBHI targets neighborhoods likely to have the highest concentrations of medically uninsured women. Due to Andrea’s leadership, persistence and perseverance, in 2006 FBHI was able to quickly conduct its outreach in neighborhoods of North Miami-Dade County reaching 1,800 homes.
Through FBHI and "A Buddie for You", Andrea serves as a mentor to newly diagnosed breast cancer patients by helping them through the process. Recently, Andrea participated in the National Breast Cancer Coalition 2006 Advocacy Conference and traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the National Breast Cancer Coalition 2006 Lobby Day. As a member of the NBCC Florida Delegation, Andrea met with Florida Senators and Congressmen to gain support for the NBCC’s issues.
In addition to her role as a mentor and breast health advocate, Andrea has participated in the Coping and Recovery project at the University of Miami, which conducts research and offers training in stress reduction techniques and interpersonal coping skills, as well as support groups for women to share their experiences with breast cancer.
Through all of her efforts, Andrea strives to eradicate breast cancer as a life threatening disease, one household at a time.
Beverly Vote
Lebanon, MO
Breast Cancer Wellness
A 14-year breast cancer survivor, Beverly Vote works tirelessly to empower women in their fight against breast cancer. Her passion is to help others experience healing and wellness to the fullest extent, through publishing stories of hope.
Beverly is creator and publisher of Breast Cancer WELLNESS, a free magazine distributed quarterly to more than 30,000 survivors and caregivers. Breast Cancer WELLNESS offers cutting edge advice from leading experts in the field of healing and wellness and inspirational stories of breast cancer survival. Beverly knows that sharing stories of courage and hope is critical for breast cancer survivors, particularly following their diagnosis when they are in shock and need to know what is available to them in their journey to healing. The magazine debuted in early 2006 and is receiving rave reviews.
Beverly’s web site,
www.breastcancerwellness.org, also provides timely and important information to survivors and allows visitors to download her magazine.
In the near future, Beverly will take to the airwaves when her radio show debuts with more stories of hope.
Beverly is also a contributing writer to Chicken Soup for the Breast Cancer Survivor's Soul and Dancing With Fear:Tips and Wisdom from Breast Cancer Survivors. She is completing a book for women on surviving cancer, Getting Even with the Odds of Cancer: Master Survivors Speak Out, to be released in 2008.
Prior to being diagnosed with breast cancer, Beverly owned an insurance agency. She now devotes her time fully to the breast cancer wellness mission and to ongoing events and causes that empower women, including helping to organize a breast cancer survivors cruise to Alaska, to benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
Cathy Varunok
Poughkeepsie, NY
Support in the Hudson Valley
Cathy Varunok has been a crusader against the devastating effects of breast cancer since she lost her 36-year-old younger sister to the disease 15 years ago.
After participating in countless walks to raise money for breast cancer support, Cathy decided to start her own foundation with a partner, also a breast cancer survivor, to fund support programs for people in Hudson Valley, NY. Three and a half years later, the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation has raised more than $800,000 and helped thousands of women.
As an Occupational Therapist specializing in breast cancer rehabilitation, Cathy knows what resources are available for people in treatment, finished with treatment and longer term survivors. She was adamant about starting a program that would help people with financial emergencies. Soon after, Medical Gap Care Fund was born. Medical Gap Care provides money for heating bills, car payments, transportation to treatment and much more.
Cathy handles every request, speaks to the Social Service Agency about the individual and determines the extent of need. The Foundation takes pride that there is a maximum 48-hour turnaround for funding and Cathy is available 24/7 to both agencies and individuals who call her directly. Miles of Hope has paid for back-to-school clothes for children, summer camp, a mortgage payment, a cell phone bill and countless wigs.
Miles of Hope is a 501(c)3 foundation with a mission to support people affected by breast cancer in the Hudson Valley. The Foundation accepts all grant proposals in the area of breast cancer support (not research) and Cathy, as a co-founder, reads all proposals and discusses their merits with the Executive Committee.
Cathy was also instrumental in starting a Scholarship Program at the Foundation for high school seniors whose lives have been affected by breast cancer. She also started a women's soccer tournament with benefits donated to Miles of Hope. This year, 50 teams participated and 1,000 spectators watched the competition involving all different levels of soccer. The Goals for Hope Women's Soccer Tournament raised $40,000.
Last March, the Hoops for Hope Women's Basketball Tournament was created to accommodate basketball playing moms. Twenty teams helped raise $20,000. Cathy played and officiated.
During Breast Cancer Awareness month, Cathy is very active in the community giving lectures related to exercise after breast cancer and managing lymphedema after breast cancer. She attends many community functions related to breast cancer awareness both within and outside the Foundation. She advocates for people with breast cancer to countless businesses, corporations, community agencies and medical professionals.
Last year, Cathy single-handedly organized a conference entitled "Reclaiming Intimacy and Sexuality After Cancer". The conference was timely and relevant. The findings reverberated in the community for months. In addition she presented a workshop at the United Nations for the Occupational Therapy Community on the global issue of Breast Cancer and how to address it on a community level. Cathy's work and tireless efforts are inspirational.
Colleen Johnson
Kansas City, MO
Mammograms, Wigs, and Accessories
Seeing the needs in her community for increased access to health care for women, Colleen Johnson has led the charge to create many programs for breast cancer support.
Active in women’s healthcare for more than 25 years, Colleen has specialized in treating breast disease for the past 15 years. As Senior Director of Saint Luke’s Cancer Institute’s, Center for Breast Care, she develops local comprehensive cancer programs and has served as a national consultant to other institutions.
Saint Luke’s Cancer Institute’s Transportable Mammography program was first implemented in 1999 under Colleen’s direction. The program serves women who have minimal income and poor access to routine medical care and is the only transportable mammography program in the Greater Kansas City area. The program has screened thousands and detected 41 cancers in women who otherwise would not have been financially eligible to receive this service.
Under Colleen’s direction, the unit affectionately named “Sophie” (Sophisticated Imaging Equipment) is transported in a compact van bringing service into the workplace, area health clinics, churches and other nonprofit organizations. A centralized scheduling line has ensured easy access. Sophie also serves local businesses, primarily insured and private pay patients, which offsets costs. This five-year-old program has maintained a healthy financial operating budget each year. To date, the number of women served has increased by 388%.
In addition, Colleen obtained philanthropic support for Missys’ Mirror, a one stop shop for wigs, hats, scarves and breast prosthesis. This non-profit center, committed to improving the appearance, self-esteem and wellness of area cancer patients, provides a comfortable setting for choosing clothing, wigs, accessories and more, with the personal assistance of specially trained, caring volunteers. Community support for Missys’ Mirror has been outstanding and a dream come true for Colleen. With an initial $70,000 endowment for patients in need of support, no one is turned away.
Colleen also developed the Nurse Navigator program and the Newly Diagnosed Patient class at Saint Luke’s Cancer Institute. The Nurse Navigator is a consistent resource to patients and their families and is able to meet each patient in person at the time of their surgical consultation. Colleen designed the Nurse Navigator to be available throughout the continuum of care assessing the physical, educational, psychological and social needs of patients. Additionally, Colleen established a four-hour monthly class covering the gamut of topics related to breast cancer and made it available for all newly diagnosed breast cancer patients, whether they're treated at Saint Luke’s Health System or elsewhere in the community.
Colleen has donated thousands of hours of clinical and educational charity care and has been on voluntary 24 hour call for the past 7 years. Currently, Colleen is a member of several breast care committees and is working with two local Mayors and the Director of Public Health to facilitate breast cancer charity care for Kansas City residents who are not U.S. citizens. She is also developing a partnership with Saint Luke’s Cancer Institute and Walter Reed Army Hospital for research into the cause of breast cancer.
Donna Bruck
Monroe, MI
You Don't Have to Be Over 40 to Have Breast Cancer
At age 24, Donna Bruck found a three centimeter tumor during a breast self-exam and was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. Prior to her diagnosis, Donna's grandfather survived breast cancer, and a year after Donna's chemo ended her mother received the same diagnosis. Donna is proud to be from a family of survivors.
Despite six surgeries for mastectomy, port placement/removal and breast reconstruction, five months of chemotherapy and losing her trademark long blonde hair, Donna has kept her loving disposition.
Donna speaks at every opportunity she finds, telling her story of young diagnosis with hopes that more women will conduct breast self-exams and get mammograms after hearing her experience. Donna is intensely involved with the Monroe Cancer Connection in Michigan, an organization that services the needs of people with cancer. With her hair only one inch long, Donna’s smiling face could be seen in local public service announcements under the heading: You Don’t Have to be Over 40 to Have Breast Cancer. Donna served as the 2004 keynote speaker at the Monroe Cancer Connections’ “Cup of Tea for Hope” fundraiser and shared her “Cancer Scrap Book,” a collection of cards and letters, photographs and medical paperwork detailing her journey. She has spoken at schools, churches, cancer fundraisers, youth centers, VFW halls, and the local cable station.
In between speaking engagements, Donna has driven more than 2,300 miles in 2006 transporting patients to doctors appointments and chemotherapy treatment as a way to connect with people in need. She remains with patients while they are injected with their chemotherapy regimens to offer them serenity and encouragement.
Donna meets, comforts and mentors many women as they start their journey through breast cancer. She makes phone calls and often visits them in person at their homes, sharing a personal photo diary of her reconstruction surgeries.
In addition to speaking and mentoring, Donna was the driving force behind her family’s American Cancer Society Relay for Life team, Fight Like a Girl - Fight For A Cure! Donna and her sister are co-captains and Donna participates in fundraising activities year-round. The team raised more than $3,000 in its first year.
At a time in her life when she could have said "why me?," Donna asked: "How can I help others?"
Elaine Lustig
Orlando, FL
Tennis and Golf Help Find a Cure
Elaine Lustig was upset watching many of her closest friends suffer from breast cancer and sometimes succumbing to the disease. She wanted to do something about it. So Elaine, a longtime community volunteer, and her golfing buddy Sheila Solomon formed Women Playing For T.I.M.E. (technology, immediate diagnosis, mammography and education.)
In 1993, armed with the passion to defeat breast cancer and to educate others about the disease, more than 700 ladies competed at the prestigious Lake Nona Club in a two day tennis and golf event. They raised $100,000.
But their fight had just begun. Today, Women Playing For T.I.M.E. raises $450,000 annually for the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando in four other satellite events. This year, their efforts topped $6 million.
T.I.M.E. supports a world-class breast cancer diagnostic center by providing educational resources, vehicles that transport low-income patients to and from treatment and offering support to staff. They have also helped pay for a Helical Tomotherapy machine which facilitates a new technique for administering radiation therapy. This year, all of the monies raised will go to research.
Sheila lost her battle in 2000, but in her name Elaine’s group helped generate funds to start a Breast Care Center and a boutique that offers hard-to-find items designed especially for women being treated for breast cancer. Products include scarves, hats, self-help books, post-mastectomy camisoles, sensitive skin products, handbags, jewelry and feminine sports wear. Most items are free gifts from T.I.M.E. or provided in exchange for small donations. Their goal is to help women keep their dignity.
Since Sheila lost her battle in 2000, Elaine has helped recruit influential members, secure sponsors and educate countless women about cancer. She runs the steering committee and plans events to support the group’s mission. Event participants receive a special signature pink V.I.P. card. Though the hope is that the card will never have to be used, cardholders are assured an appointment at the cancer center for evaluation of suspicious test results.
This lady in pink motivates hundreds to promote change and awareness.
Ellen Richman
Jenkintown, PA
Look Good, Feel Better
Think of a way to touch the life of a breast cancer patient and chances are that Ellen Richman is doing it and thinking of ways to improve it. Ellen has been referred to as kind, talented, devoted, and inventive, but most importantly, inspired.
When Ellen received a suspicious mammogram result, she visited a physician at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia. Impressed and inspired by the way she was treated, Ellen trained to become an American Cancer Society Reach to Recovery® volunteer for the Center’s breast health initiative.
Working directly with three breast surgeons of the Women’s Center, sometimes starting as early as 5:30 AM, Ellen offers encouraging words to women prepping for surgery. Once the patient is in surgery, she meets with their family to offer comfort and answer questions. After surgery, Ellen continues to reassure patients who have had a lumpectomy and visits mastectomy patients who require overnight care. Through distribution of post surgery care packages that include personal care items and educational information, and follow up calls with patients twice a week throughout their recovery, Ellen provides breast cancer patients a reliable and stable support system.
In addition to emotional support, Ellen offers recovering patients referrals for physical therapy, financial assistance and recommendations for places to find personal products such as post-mastectomy bras and wigs.
Through her volunteer efforts, Ellen built close relationships with many patients and realized the areas of need within breast cancer recovery care services. In response, she facilitates American Cancer Society Look Good, Feel Better®, a quarterly event held at Einstein, where breast cancer patients receive free make-up kits and beauty instruction. Further, after witnessing patient discomfort caused by draining after surgery, Ellen consulted physicians and lawyers about a device she designed to alleviate this discomfort and pain.
Outside of her daily volunteer efforts, Ellen is a fifth year member of the Breast Cancer Action Group, which focuses its efforts on breast cancer awareness, advocating for patients’ rights and sponsoring education and outreach programs for all aspects of breast health. She is a top fundraiser, organizing the group’s Bloomingdales shopping day and supervising the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® on Mother’s Day.
Elsa Perez
San Antonio, TX
Breast Cancer Talk for Everyone
Elsa Perez was only 16 years old when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy. At the time, she didn’t know anything about breast cancer. Due to a lack of available resources and information about the disease, Elsa and her family had difficulty finding answers and support.
Since then, Elsa has dedicated her time to educating women, in both English and Spanish, about early detection as well as recruiting her friends, family and co-workers to support the mission of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Her tireless volunteer efforts are to honor her mother, a 34-year breast cancer survivor, and to ensure that her two daughters can live in a world where breast cancer is no longer a life-altering and threatening disease.
Serving the local Komen Foundation has become Elsa’s part-time job, for which she gladly volunteers. For seven years, she has assisted the local affiliate in a multitude of ways such as creating and delivering survivor gift baskets for women recently diagnosed with breast cancer, conducting awareness and educational presentations at schools, businesses, and health fairs, participating in Champions for the Cure® by lobbying for Congressional support, building volunteer databases, coordinating and creating email blasts, serving as volunteer co-chair for the San Antonio Race for the Cure®, participating as a Latinas for a Cure committee member and by speaking at church congregations during Pink Ribbon Month.
Elsa is a true leader among volunteers. She has a wonderful way of delegating duties and working relentlessly so that every volunteer feels they play an important role. Her enthusiasm is contagious and her smile is comforting.
Grace Wright
Chapel Hill, NC
Teaching Women with Disabilities about Breast Cancer
For Grace, there are no barriers when it comes to communicating the importance of early detection and breast cancer screening to women with disabilities. At the North Carolina Office of Disability and Health (NCODH), she has taken a lead role in developing Women Be Healthy, a program that teaches women with disabilities about reproductive health, breast cancer screenings and active participation in their healthcare.
Because women with intellectual disabilities tend to take a more passive role in their healthcare screening, Grace is determined to explain and demonstrate how self-screenings can save their lives. Grace’s charisma makes this often difficult and personal topic a safe and empowering experience for them. Her ability to explain and demonstrate self-screenings in a basic, yet respectful manner has made a difference in the lives of many women in her state.
Through the Women Be Healthy program, women with disabilities learn how to do a breast self-exam and what to expect during a clinical breast exam and mammogram. Grace co-facilitates the eight-week course with many agencies in North Carolina. Follow-up interviews with class participants have documented that these women are speaking up more about their health concerns.
Grace has volunteered for the past 12 years at Save Our Sisters of Rex, a local lay health advisory group, which focuses on educating and encouraging African American women to get breast cancer screening (monthly self breast exams, annual clinical breast exams and age appropriate mammograms). In addition, she participates every year in the local Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure®. She also works with the IWILL (Incarcerated Women Interested In Living/Learning) at the North Carolina Correctional Center for Women in Raleigh with the Komen Foundation Local affiliate.
Janey Shugart
Granite Bay, CA
Teaching Youngsters
Since 2001, Janey Shugart has served as the guiding force for The Pink Ladies, a group of high school students dedicated "to enrich and educate young women, young men and faculty while raising money for breast cancer and cancer research foundations."
Janey first became involved in the program when six ambitious, devoted female students, including her daughter, expressed interest in honoring their loved ones who had battled breast cancer by making a difference in the community. With Janey’s support, The Pink Ladies has grown into a 150 member, student-run organization at Granite Bay High School in Granite Bay, California. Janey volunteers her time researching fundraising opportunities and organizing guest speakers for the group’s monthly meetings.
The Pink Ladies have participated in the Race for the Cure the past five years. They have made table decorations for the Kick-Off, dedicated cheerleaders have performed original chants, they have stuffed thousands of survivor bags and contributed themed buttons. When staff or students have been diagnosed with cancer, they have coordinated fundraisers to support them.
Last spring their fashion show, Surviving Beautifully, raised over $3,000 for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure and American Cancer Society. Through the sale of pink ribbons on campus, the students were able to give two $500 scholarships to graduating seniors with an immediate family member affected by cancer through the Pink Ribbon Breast Cancer Fund. This year Granite Bay High School will host its first Relay for Life benefiting the American Cancer Society.
Janey joined Team in Training last summer and enthusiastically completed the Nike Women’s Marathon in San Francisco which benefited the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.
Through this program, Janey has been able to mentor and guide students through the sometimes difficult years of high school. She has taught them the true meaning of charity and giving, a lesson most students will take with them for the rest of their lives.
Joanne Seneta
Lynn, MA
Gardening for the Cure
Finding a cure for breast cancer has become a life pursuit for Joanne and her family. In 2003, three days before her youngest daughter’s wedding shower, Joanne was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was facing the disease that her Mom had faced 8 years earlier and is now a survivor.
Determined to raise awareness for the disease that has touched her life several times, Joanne, with the support of her daughters, enrolled in the 2004 Susan G. Komen for the Cure Breast Cancer 3Day walk. The 3Day is a journey of 60 miles that takes place in 12 cities every year in the United States. This first step was the beginning of an amazing, continuing journey that has evolved out of determination, friendship, leadership and love.
In 2005, she participated again and formed a team called The Pink Angels. As a result of her leadership, the team steadily grew to more than 30 members raising $112,000. In 2006, the team grew to 90 members and raised more than $250,000 for breast cancer research. At the time of the 3-Day walk in Boston, they were the number one fundraising team in the country.
In addition, Joanne began The Bow Ridge Garden Tour, a summer tour of her neighbor’s gardens, which in 2006 included 12 homes, with all the proceeds going to the cause. Since 2004, the gardens have received recognition from several formal flower garden judges in Massachusetts and involved the entire neighborhood. To date the tour has raised more than $16,000.
Her latest project was her participation on a calendar featuring breast cancer survivors created by a member of The Pink Angels. Nearly 2,000 calendars have been sold to date. In
The Pink Angels, Joanne has found long-lasting friendships and the strength she needs to continue fighting against breast cancer.
LaTondria Carter
Tallahassee, FL
Student "SuperWoman"
A 23 year-old graduating biology student, LaTondria learned firsthand about breast cancer three days short of her 21st birthday, when her mother was diagnosed with Stage 1 of a rare form of breast cancer. Surprisingly, this unfortunate situation has been a blessing in her life. It has shown her how breast cancer is survivable and taught her to embrace knowledge, faith and support.
LaTondria demonstrates her passion for fighting breast cancer by volunteering for and coordinating fundraising events, and educating others on pertinent initiatives about the disease. Since 2003, she has served on the FAMU Relay For Life Planning Committee and, thanks to her work and dedication the event has raised more than $90,000 in the past three years.
Last fall, she used Yoplait’s Save Lids to Save Lives™ program to raise money for FAMU’s Relay For Life. In the past, she has organized events such as Bank Night and Relay For Life Week. She has also participated in numerous events hosted by the American Cancer Society (ACS) such as Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, FAMILIES Reaching Out to Cancer Kids (R.O.C.K.), ACS summits and ACS regional workshops. In addition, she serves as the writer and editor for The Relay Newsletter.
Her determination to raise awareness for breast cancer is contagious. Every day, LaTondria motivates students at her university to get involved and make a difference. Her fellow students and volunteers have nick-named her “Super Woman,” for her ability to help everyone. She is a future public health professional with aspirations to pursue her Ph.D. in cancer biology.
Lillie Shockney
Baltimore, MD
Mothers Supporting Daughters with Breast Cancer
A two-time breast cancer survivor diagnosed in 1992 at age 38 and again at age 40, Lillie Shockney has triumphed over both obstacles with courage and determination. After reflecting on her experiences, Lillie decided to devote her life to raising awareness and providing support for breast cancer patients.
Lillie first joined the John Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center in 1997, where she is responsible for the quality of care programs, patient education programs, survivor volunteer team, community outreach, website construction and patient advocacy. Today, as an administrative director of the John Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center and instructor in the department of surgery at John Hopkins, Lillie is educated in the medical and emotional needs of breast cancer patients. She has utilized her personal experience and expertise to offer support to women battling the disease and their respective families.
Acting as a patient advocate, Lillie shares her experiences through speaking opportunities and fundraisers. She is an established author and has published four books and more than fifty articles related to breast cancer, serves as "Ask the Expert" for Yahoo.com, and created the John Hopkins Avon Foundation website, through which she responds to more than 120 e-mails a day about breast cancer.
Lillie further serves as vice president and co-founder of a national nonprofit organization, "Mothers Supporting Daughters with Breast Cancer" and is a member of multiple breast cancer organizations’ medical advisory boards. She reaches out to survivors through the annual "Breastival" which she created to promote breast health among young women and the annual breast cancer survivor retreat that focuses on setting new life goals, stress management and spirituality.
Lillie successfully convinced Congress in 1998 to have reconstructive surgery covered by health insurance and she has now set a new goal to foster the development and implementation of national quality standards for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer across the United States.
Marc Silver
Chevy Chase, MD
Leader for Breast Cancer Husbands
Marc understands how difficult it is to go through long months of treatment with someone you love. When his wife, Marsha, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001, he felt at a loss and wished for a book that would guide him through the adversity. When he could not find it, he wrote it.
Marc is the author of Breast Cancer Husband: How to Help Your Wife (and Yourself) Through Treatment, Diagnosis and Beyond. While writing the book, Marc interviewed more than one hundred couples about their experience and spoke to doctors, nurses and therapists. The result was a comprehensive guide for husbands (and boyfriends) who are trying to give the best support to the woman they love as she fights breast cancer.
Today, Marc is well-known in this country and internationally. His book has been published in England and Hungary and he has spoken at breast cancer seminars in South America. Through his book and talks, he has helped couples thrive. In addition, many hospitals in the U.S. have even developed programs for husbands based on the book.
Marc’s dedication to helping his fellow breast cancer husbands, both by writing and by speaking about his experience, shows the love of a husband who wants to make it easier on others encountering his situation. Marc is a true believer that a caregiver’s help can make a tremendous difference for a breast cancer patient.
For more information about Breast Cancer Husband, visit Marc's Web site:
www.breastcancerhusband.com
Maria Antonia Sanchez
Hood River, OR
Beating Cultural Taboos
Maria Antonia (Toña, originally from Mexico, has worked as a Health Promoter for La Clinica del Cariño and Nuestra Comunidad Sana in Hood River since 1988. At the clinics, she provides health outreach and education to the Latino/Hispanic community on breast and cervical cancer, maternal and child health, domestic violence prevention and diabetes. Her goal is to break the breast cancer taboo among the Hispanic community and raise awareness of the disease. Breast cancer is the most frequently-diagnosed cancer among Latinas and is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the population.
Her program, Mensajeras de Esperanza (Messengers of Hope), teaches Hispanics in the Mid-Columbia region about breast cancer and the importance of early detection through screening (self-exams, clinical exams and mammograms). In 2004, Toña changed directions when she began visiting and directing breast cancer awareness presentations to men. Understanding that Hispanic men hold the decision-making power in their families, she wanted to help them understand the consequences of not being well-informed.
Thanks to Toña’s dedication and determination, Latin/Hispanic women and men in her community are aware and talking about breast cancer. So far, 733 women and 606 men participated in one-on-one education, 306 women were referred for screening - 42 of whom received clinical exams and 42 received clinical exams and mammograms - and 5 breast cancer survivors participated in the clinic’s monthly support group. Toña’s life-saving work has been supported by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure of Oregon and SW Washington.
Peter Flierl
Greenwich, CT
"Prayer, Laughter and Broccoli"
Peter, a writer and motivational speaker with 25 years experience in community health education and social work, has become a voice for thousands of men helping their wives battle breast cancer. His wife, Shirley, was diagnosed with a Stage 3 aggressive breast cancer with extensive lymph node involvement when she was only 37 years old. Despite the devastating diagnosis, Peter was determined to help his wife battle against such terrible odds, so that she could live to see their three-year-old daughter, Alison, grow up. Nowadays, Shirley also serves her community as a source of inspiration and support as a 24-year survivor.
In 2004, using both personal and professional experience, Peter put his knowledge and wisdom to paper and published "Prayer, Laughter & Broccoli,” a survival guide for men whose partners are facing breast cancer. The book received the 2006 Book of the Year Award from the Association for Applied & Therapeutic Humor (AATH), and is recommended by numerous breast cancer organizations, including: Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization, and Reach to Recovery International.
Peter is of the strong belief that breast cancer is a shared family experience that affects each member profoundly. And that by offering assistance and providing physical, emotional and spiritual support, the family can help their loved one fight breast cancer. Peter speaks at a variety of forums to help people, especially men, understand their feelings and ways they can offer their support.
Randi Passoff
Atlanta, GA
Helping Her Community Help Others
Passion, drive and a commitment to improving lives defines Randi Passoff, a two-time breast cancer survivor and the founder and executive director of It’s the Journey, Inc. and the Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer.
Randi gained a passion for raising awareness and funds for breast cancer in her community after she was first diagnosed with breast cancer 11 years ago. While going through treatment, Randi learned about the diverse breast cancer organizations in Atlanta and wanted to spread the word and support the existing organizations in her community.
In 2002, Randi founded the Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer, out of which at least 70 percent of funds raised each year are granted directly to local breast cancer organizations. Now in its fifth year, the 2-Day Walk has awarded 45 grants to Atlanta’s breast cancer organizations, attracted thousands of walkers, mobilized hundreds of volunteers from the local community, just had its first ever $1 million walk event (Sept. 16-17, 2006), and have raised over $2.6 million since the 2-Day began.
As a result of "2-Day" funding, local organizations have provided services such as mammograms for the poor and underserved, diagnosis and treatment education, genetic research, translation services, support groups, transportation to medical appointments and wigs, gowns and turbans for women undergoing chemotherapy and financial help and much, much more.
Randi’s efforts go beyond her past and current work with different organizations. To raise more money for unmet needs in her community, she is working to add a new annual event starting in 2007– The Atlanta Breast Cancer Challenge – in which she will challenge businesses across Atlanta to hold fund-raising events for breast cancer throughout October.
Though Randi is currently fighting her second battle with breast cancer, and at the present time, she has been undergoing treatment as part of an experimental clinical trial for her Stage 4, metastatic cancer, she isn’t slowing down. She is part of a multi part feature special that WXIA television is filming of her cancer and treatment. She has gained the friendship and support of Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin and First Lady Mary Perdue, who have both participated in the 2-Day Walk as walkers and key note speakers at the organization’s events over these past four years.
Before starting It’s The Journey, Inc., Randi held board positions on many non profits, including Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® board, made weekly visits to cancer patients at St. Joseph Medical Center, was also a four-year past participant of the Avon 3-Day. She operated Can You Imagine a World Without Breast Cancer.com, an Internet site used to raise money for breast cancer. She has been nominated for and won several awards, such as the third annual "Magnolia Award," presented by Breast Friends for her "unwavering dedication and friendship". She was also a finalist for the National Association of Women Business Owners Icon Awards in 2005 and the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Healthcare for Heroes Award in 2006 and was a finalist for the City of Sandy Springs Martin Luther King Jr. Award. She is currently serving on the Henry Grady Board of Visitors.
Sandra Walters
Denver, CO
Helping Others Make Informed Medical Decisions
RN Breast Specialist and founder of the
Andre Center, Sandra Walters, has worked in the field of breast health and breast cancer education since 1999.
Driven by the desire to help patients facing breast cancer, Sandra gave up the security of a regular paycheck and started a non-profit community outreach program called the Andre Center for Breast Cancer Education and Navigation. Established in May 2006, the Andre Center provides quality educational resources, one-on-one coaching to sort through the overwhelming amount of information that a breast cancer patient receives and navigation support for women and men faced with a confusing and fragmented health care system. These resources are currently available at no cost. In addition, the Andre Center promotes informed medical decision-making and offers assistance through the treatment process.
The center assists in coordinating communication and services between the patient and medical providers, helping to decrease anxiety for the patient and their families. Recently, the Andre Center program launched a website under Sandra’s direction. The website offers a step-by-step approach to the education process by identifying the probable next steps after diagnosis, and also provides information on genetic counseling, lymphedema, nutrition, integrative therapy and prayer resources.
Sandra’s personal mission is to provide a personal touch through one-on-one education to breast cancer patients regardless of where they are diagnosed or treated. This approach has proven to decrease anxiety and promote peace of mind. She has counseled hundreds of women and men over the years and believes that what happens within the first few days of a breast cancer diagnosis is critical in setting the stage for emotional well-being during treatment and integrating back into the home and work environment when treatment ends.
Sandra is currently a clinical advisor for educational materials developed by the Foundation for Informed Medical Decision Making in Boston and the National Center for Clinical Research for Women and Families in Washington, D.C. She serves as a committee chairwoman for the National Consortium of Breast Centers and is participating in a national effort to credential nurses who specialize in breast cancer education. In addition, Sandra serves on the education committee for the Denver affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure and actively participates on their speaker’s bureau, along with serving as a member of the Colorado Breast Cancer Task Force. In addition, the Andre Center was just chosen by the State of Colorado to provide treatment navigation services to underserved women diagnosed with breast cancer through their Colorado Women’s Cancer Control Initiative, CWCCI, program.
Sandy Clauser
South Bend, IN
Women's Task Force
At age 34, Sandy Clauser had four reasons to overcome her aggressive breast cancer diagnosis: each of her three children, the youngest of which was 14 months-old and her husband, Brian. With the desire to see each one of her babies through their first steps, first days of school, and first loves, Sandy underwent a fairly new stem cell procedure in 1997. The support of her husband, her personal strength and courage, and her faith in God enabled her to beat the disease which has shaped who she is today, an active and loving mother and a dedicated breast cancer advocate and volunteer.
Sandy is a founding member of the Women’s Task Force and a key worker and organizer of its Secret Sister Society mammography fund. The fund raises money for resources for screening mammograms for underserved and underinsured women between the ages of 40 and 49. Although screening is recognized in health guidelines for women age 40 and over, women in Indiana are not eligible until they are 50 years old. The Secret Sister Society has raised more than $500,000 through annual luncheons and fashion shows; as a result the program has covered the cost of mammograms for 1,300 women since 2003.
Sandy’s personal contributions are extraordinary. Giving her time to the Women’s Task Force, she has served on the Steering Committee for each event, as well as the co-chair for the 2005 fund, and as the membership drive, retail and model co-coordinator for the most recent fashion show event. Clauser further donates money to the organization by covering all printing costs for events and fundraisers; this ensures that all funds raised through each event go toward paying for mammograms, rather than covering functional costs.
As a stay at home mom, Sandy is fortunate to have time to devote to other women with breast cancer. She shares her experiences in hopes of helping women who turn to her for advice by showing them that they can also have the strength to beat this disease.
Sara Williams
Mebane, NC
Survivor Lends Hand to Sister Study
In December of 1997, Sara Williams was diagnosed with infiltrating ductal carcinoma. The most common form of breast cancer; it starts in the milk ducts, breaks through the duct wall, and eventually infects the fatty tissue within the breast. At age 47, Sara underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatment while enrolled in a Phase III clinical trial at the University of North Carolina. Turned breast cancer survivor and advocate, Sara walked away from her academic career and devoted her time to supporting others affected by the disease. She truly believes that “healing comes from helping other people.”
Williams currently works as a recruitment coordinator for the
Sister Study, the only long-term study of women aged 35 to 74, whose sisters have had breast cancer. It is one of the first long-term studies created to understand how women's genes and their environment (i.e. homes, workplaces, and communities) influence their risk of breast cancer. It is also the first study to collect extensive information about environmental exposures, while also including a variety of generations, racial and ethnic groups and geographic regions. Sara’s own sister participates in the study; in the next year, 20,000 more women whose sisters have had breast cancer, but do not have breast cancer themselves, will be asked to join to reach the goal of 50,000 enrolled women.
Sara twice served as the President of the North Carolina Breast Cancer Coalition – from 2000 to 2002. It was during her tenure that the Coalition published their first Resource Directory, which provided critical contact information and resources for breast cancer patients. The directory, currently in its third edition, is provided free-of-charge to resource libraries, patients and doctor’s offices.
Outside of her professional career Sara remains a visible advocate for breast cancer awareness, volunteering her time and expertise to the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program, the American Cancer Society Stakeholder Program, the Avon Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the California Breast Cancer Research Program and the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Sara is a graduate of Project LEAD, the National Breast Cancer Coalition’s science program for breast cancer activists.
Additionally, Sara has been nationally recognized by multiple awards and scholarships, including two Alamo Breast Cancer Foundation Patient Advocacy Awards in 1999 and 2003, the National Breast Cancer Coalition Scholarship to attend the 1999 International Breast Cancer Advocacy Conference in Brussels, Belgium and a Consumer Stipend Award to attend the Eighth Cochrane Colloquium in Cape Town, South Africa.
Saranne Rothberg
Tenafly, NJ
Healing Through Laughter
Laughter and a positive outlook truly are the best medicines. That’s what early stage four breast cancer survivor Saranne Rothberg had in mind when she launched the non-profit ComedyCures Foundation in 1999. ComedyCures
® is an organization that brings joy, hope, laughter and therapeutic entertainment to those going through breast cancer treatment.
Saranne threw her first "Chemo Comedy Party" during her first chemo treatment in 1999. Armed with comedy, party favors, sparkling cider, mini sandwiches and dessert, Saranne jumped up from her chemo chair, walked over to each patient and offered an invitation to a "Celebration of Life Chemo Comedy Party".
After witnessing the impact her therapeutic celebration had on her fellow breast cancer patients, their friends, family members and medical staff, Saranne knew she had just redefined what it meant to go through breast cancer treatment.
After three surgeries, 44 radiation treatments and more than two years of chemo, Saranne continues her journey cancer-free, motivating patients and caregivers through live ComedyCures
® events. Up to 4,000 people call her free ComedyCures LaughLine
® every month for a dose of humor, and she receives between 250 and 1,000 emails a day, mostly from breast cancer patients and their caregivers. Saranne has touched the lives of more than 132,000 people at 184 events around the world since she was diagnosed.
Saranne has developed many programs, including the ComedyCures LaughingLunch®, a free two-hour educational and entertaining, catered, therapeutic comedy event. She also piloted developmentally appropriate breast cancer awareness programs using therapeutic comedy and laughter with Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, pre-K thru grade 12 and university students, programs in churches, synagogues and community centers. She inspires children across America to get involved in community service while dispelling myths about breast cancer. Saranne is a breast cancer mentor for many patients, survivors and several innovative breast cancer initiatives.
With the support of her daughter and many ComedyCures
® entertainers, Saranne has helped to raise several millions of dollars for breast cancer research, education, advocacy and support programs on both local and national levels.
www.comedycures.org
Tenille Oderwald
East Peoria, IL
Daughter Works with Breast Cancer Patients in Memory of Mother
After watching her mother undergo a mastectomy and receive several treatments for breast cancer, Tenille knew she wanted to be a nurse and give back. After graduating from a nursing program, she accepted a RN position on a hospital oncology floor. Since then Tenille feels she has truly found her passion.
In 2000, her mother passed away from breast cancer. Days before her mother’s death, Tenille promised her mother that she would continue the fight against breast cancer. Soon after, she was approached for a case coordinator position to work with women with breast cancer. Knowing what a patient and family endures, she started work at the breast center and has dedicated her profession to giving patients the most comprehensive care with education, services, and support.
In her work, Tenille is paired with a patient and coordinates their care, serving as a patient advocate and assisting the patient through multiple systems to obtain services and information. She meets with patients alongside a radiologist post-biopsy to give the results, spending time with the patient to explain the type of cancer, typical surgical options and treatments. She offers support and encouragement and guides them through the process - all with a positive attitude.
In addition, Tenille began a family education program, providing age-appropriate books to children and the significant other. The program has been a huge success and makes explaining and talking about breast cancer easier. Tenille also conducts Pre-Operative Breast Classes and maintains the Prophylactic Lymphedema Grant for women who have had axillary node dissection, which provides a medical alert bracelet, education and prophylactic sleeve to wear during exercise and flying.
She developed the Comprehensive Breast Center program in 2003, which is a program that provides patients with a multidisciplinary team approach of one-stop, face to face consultation with a panel of physician specialists in breast cancer care. The multidisciplinary team consists of radiologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, plastic surgeons, registered nurses, and psychologists all of which meet with the patient individually then gather at the same table at that same time and develop a plan of care for the patient that day. This program has decreased the number of appointments needed for patients, “sleepless nights”, and wait time for surgery.
She has worked on the Breast Cancer Survivor Retreat, a unique day-long program, held annually to help survivors refocus, set new life goals, improve lifestyle habits and deal with fears through educational presentations and interactions. Tenille has dedicated this program to her mother and created the Survivor Celebration, a night dedicated to survivors and their friends and families. Tenille also supervises the Survivor For Life program that matches a newly-diagnosed patient with a woman who has undergone diagnosis and treatment already.
Tenille has also developed the High Risk Screening Program for women, beginning in 2007. The program is designed to provide screening, counseling and surveillance for women who are at increased risk, in addition to their annual exams with their primary care physician and/or gynecologist.
Vicky Cooke
Wilmington, DE
Teaching Young Women through LEAD
It was a shock to Vicky Cooke when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 44, fourteen years ago. Even more shocking was her mother’s diagnosis shortly after her own treatment.
Vicky found an outlet for her energy and passion with the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, Inc. (DBCC). She made her way from volunteer to Executive Director, using her experience in nonprofit management and program development to grow the organization.
Because of her own young diagnosis, one of Vicky’s first initiatives as Executive Director was the Young Survivors in Action, a program that provides information, support, and fellowship for young women with breast cancer in Delaware and the surrounding areas. She also embraced proactive, creative ideas, working to break down barriers in accessing health care, reaching underserved women with breast health information, providing free or low-cost cancer screenings, and offering support. Under her guidance, the DBCC now offers programs for lesbians and women who partner with women, African American women, Hispanic women, and women with inadequate health insurance.
After a local hospital did not renew their contract with the state to operate the state’s only mobile mammography van, Vicky quickly mobilized the DBCC to ensure that the program wouldn’t be abandoned. The organization has now been successfully managing the Women’s Mobile Health Screening van for more than a year and a half, completing over 1,000 screenings within the first year.
Vicky hasn’t confined her influence to local initiatives; she has graduated from the National Breast Cancer Coalition Fund’s Project LEAD, attends their national advocacy conference each year, and works diligently to ensure continual federal funding for breast cancer research. She was recently elected to the board of the National Breast Cancer Coalition and participates in the Governor’s cancer task force and regional health coalitions. She has been instrumental in building the agency’s annual Breast Cancer Update into an extraordinary event with nationally known guest speakers.
In spite of some health problems likely caused by her cancer treatment, Vicky is still working hard to reduce the high rate of breast cancer diagnosis by advocating for, educating about, and providing services for early detection and treatment.
Vicky’s dedication to the cause extends to other breast cancer activists. She nurtures and provides opportunities for others to realize their potential to ease the breast cancer journey for others, including supporting Project LEAD applications and nominating volunteers for local and regional awards.
Always looking to the next challenge ahead of her, Vicky empowers others around her and is an inspiration to those affected by the disease.
Wendy Chioji
Winter Park, FL
Battling Breast Cancer to the Finish Line
A news anchor at WESH-TV, in Orlando, Florida, Wendy knew she could reach many people with the story of her struggle and survival of Stage 2 breast cancer. Her diagnosis came four days after completing the Boston Marathon at age 39. Wendy announced her diagnosis on air and set up a weekly journal on the station’s website to document her experience.
One of Wendy’s new challenges is integrating breast cancer education into her active lifestyle. As a marathon runner, former triathlete, and half-Ironman participant, Wendy shows no fear when taking on new physical challenges. To address the lack of participation in clinical trials—only five percent of cancer patients participate in clinical trials—Wendy cycled 500 miles across the country, from Los Angeles, to Phoenix, Dallas, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Washington D.C. with the Lance Armstrong Foundation and Bristol Myers Squibb, speaking at hospitals and pediatric cancer centers, and sharing her story with media.
She has completed numerous century bike rides and parts of several stages of the Tour de France. Wendy also cycled across America with 25 other riders and Lance Armstrong for the Tour of Hope in 2003 to raise awareness for cancer research and clinical trials. The team covered 3,200 miles in seven days. Wendy personally rode 550 miles.
Since her recovery, Wendy has dedicated her time and talent to a variety of initiatives designed to raise breast cancer awareness, such as speaking to cancer patients and leading the 2004 Tour of Hope ride for cancer awareness across America.
Barbara Hensley
Wayzata, MN
Hope for a Cure
After the heartbreaking loss of both her sisters, Kathy Smith Morgan and Patsy Smith Miller to breast cancer and her mother, Betty Smith to lung cancer, which is suspected to have metastasized from breast cancer, Barbara's life was forever changed. She witnessed first-hand not only the physical and emotional effects of the disease, but also the financial burden placed upon those struggling for survival. Following the deaths of both her sisters and consultations with breast cancer specialists, Barbara made the difficult personal decision to undergo a preventative bilateral mastectomy.
In 2001, Barbara left the security of her executive management position as a Vice President of Product Strategy and Management at a Fortune 500 company to dedicate the rest of her professional life to the cause of breast cancer. She took a second loan on her own home and used her extensive business and leadership skills to develop and implement the business model for the Hope Chest for Breast Cancer® Foundation.
The Hope Chest for Breast Cancer raises money through the sale of donated, upscale furniture, accessories and designer clothing, utilizing a chain of retail stores. In addition to the retail store, Hope Chest hosts a variety of special events to raise money for the foundation.
Through the unique retail shop, grants and donations from corporations, individuals and foundations, and the variety of creative and engaging special events, the Hope Chest raises money to fund breast cancer research, early detection and treatment programs, and hospice care for those touched by breast cancer. At Hope Chest, a special emphasis is placed on helping people who are battling breast cancer with inadequate or no health insurance. The Hope Chest just recently gave the University of Minnesota Breast Cancer Center $100,000 to fund an education program for women of different ethnicities on the importance of early detection and to provide financial support to those with the disease.
"I am incredibly thankful to be a recipient of the Yoplait Champion Award," says Hensley. "The Hope Chest has a unique business model in that it includes a for profit retail store of donated very upscale furniture, clothing and accessories that will be franchised nationwide. These retail franchisees, or social entrepreneurs, will contribute an ongoing revenue stream to the Hope Chest Foundation." Ultimately, Hope Chest plans to open 50 franchises and, once operational, contribute over 10 million dollars to breast cancer causes each year.
Becky Haddad
Denver, CO
Raising Awareness
Becky is a 19-year cancer survivor whose tireless work has made great strides to educate the Denver community on breast cancer issues. Working through her local Komen Foundation Affiliate speakers' bureau, she's spread the word on the importance of breast self-exams, clinical breast exams and mammograms. She volunteers from 30 hours a month to 30 a week, speaking at health fairs and community organization meetings, all while holding down a fulltime job.
Among her contributions is the Multicultural Conference entitled "Breast Health and Cultural Beliefs: Celebrating Our Differences and Similarities." The conference strives to blur the lines that separate Denver's various racial, cultural and socio-economic groups using breast health education and awareness as a common concern. Over its six-year history, the conference has offered breast health and breast cancer education to nearly 1,000 medically underserved and uninsured Denver area women and men who are uninsured and not receiving adequate service from the dominant health system. Under Becky's leadership, community organizations and agencies come together to make a real difference in the Denver's communities. Her respect and understanding of each community and its members are keys to the success of the planning committee and the conference. And it works. Participant surveys show an increase in breast health education and awareness.
Becky believes that her own breast cancer was a gift, so much so that she's taken Ralph Waldo Emerson's words to be her motto. "What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us."
Carmen Gonzalez
El Paso, TX
Sharing Her Strength
At the age of 44, Carmen Gonzalez was diagnosed with breast cancer in both breasts. A single woman, between jobs and without insurance, she endured a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiation, all in a matter of two months. She lost her apartment and her beloved cat. But she gained something even more valuable: a new perspective on life.
Two years later, Carmen began working as the Coordinator for Support Services at Texas Tech University's Breast Care Center, the very place where she'd received her own diagnosis. In her new role, Carmen accompanies the doctor every time a patient receives a diagnosis of breast cancer. She's there to hold a woman's hand, offer her shoulder for a good cry and tell the patient her own story of survival. Their diagnosis demands that these women face an uncertain future. Carmen's there so they won't face it alone.
Carmen's job doesn't end at the diagnosis. She's with the patient through the entire journey: she visits them at the hospital before and after surgery, at the infusion center and throughout treatment, providing them with wigs, scarves and even helping with their makeup.
Carmen also facilitates the only Spanish-language support group in the predominately Hispanic city of El Paso. She volunteers her time at the El Paso Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, serves on the Education Committee and volunteers at health fairs, at the Race for the Cure® and at the Annual Breast Cancer Survival Celebration.
Christine Smith
Seattle, WA
A Gift of Comfort
Christine Smith was 32 years old at the time of her breast cancer diagnosis. She had a husband, two small children and a strong support network. As she underwent bilateral mastectomies, months of chemotherapy and future reconstructive surgeries, she realized how fortunate she was to have so many people around her at so challenging a time. During her treatment Christine saw other women who didn't have the same support for dealing with the daily realities of breast cancer. She decided she wanted to reach out to these patients in a very practical way.
Six years ago, Christine founded the Northwest Hope and Healing Foundation. The Foundation's mission is to provide financial assistance to patients in need, for non-medical support services such as child care, meal service, transportation, and emergency rent. Perhaps just as important are their signature Healing Baskets. Filled with lotions, herbal teas and a teddy bear for holding during treatment, the basket tells the newly diagnosed patient that she's not alone.
Christine recently celebrated her five-year wellness mark, surrounded by her family, friends and many of the patients she's touched along the way. Her commitment to others is the heart of Northwest Hope and Healing. She leads by example and shows others that you can turn personal tragedy into something positive.
Cookie Aftergut
Atlanta, GA
The Beauty Within
During her experience with chemotherapy for her breast cancer, Cookie had nowhere to turn for guidance on how to cope with its effects. She decided other women wouldn't have to face the ordeal alone.
Cookie founded ChemoChic to help women manage treatment that can rob them of their energy, self-confidence and self-esteem. The organization's mission is simple: Bring out your inner and outer beauty. To do this, ChemoChic enlists the help of a nutritionist, a yoga instructor and oncology social worker. These specialists teach women going through cancer treatments about healthful eating, relaxation techniques, and other ways to enrich the body and sprit. Cookie also offers inspirational support, and shows the women how to apply make-up and use head coverings.
ChemoChic has proven so successful, it now has a network of locations that offer this important program. ChemoChic has helped more than 300 women over the past two years and is an affiliate program of the Georgia Cancer Foundation. Cookie plans to expand ChemoChic throughout Georgia, and eventually nationwide.
Debbie Mancini-Wharff
West Des Moines, IA
A Hobby Becomes Hope
Debbie was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 37. After undergoing surgery and aggressive chemotherapy treatments, her doctors declared her cancer-free.
But six months later, the cancer returned and this time it had metastasized to her bones. Remarkably, Debbie didn't let the news knock her down. While undergoing aggressive treatments, she continued to care for her children, run a full-time business out of her home, and also found a way to turn her hobby into a fund-raising effort for the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
Debbie established the Crop for the Cure, a gathering of dedicated scrapbookers from her community. This year, 110 participants made a contribution to share in their hobby, raising more than $13,000 for the Komen Foundation. Debbie is not only a mother, career woman and breast cancer survivor, but an innovator in the fight for a cure. She's an inspiration to all of us and breast cancer survivors everywhere.
Denise O'Neill
Arnold, MD
Survivors Teaching Survival
When Denise O'Neill was diagnosed with breast cancer, she saw a gap in the emotional support system for newly diagnosed patients. When she was diagnosed, she felt as if the rug had been pulled out from underneath her. Having to deal with the diagnosis was devastating enough but having such a short time to obtain information and make decisions about her treatment made things even more difficult. She began to think of all the women who were even less informed than she was. While undergoing treatment, Denise was also troubled by how many women were dealing with breast cancer with very little emotional support.
After completing surgery and radiation, Denise took action. She resigned from her full-time job. And, with 17 years of sales and marketing experience under her belt, she founded Survivors Offering Support (SOS) at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis. Her vision was of a trained volunteer survivor mentoring organization whose services the hospital could integrate into its standard of care for breast cancer patients. "Having someone who is kind and knowledgeable and who has been through the experience right there when you've been diagnosed is like throwing you a lifeline when you have just gone overboard," said Dr. Lorraine Tafra, Director of the Breast Cancer at Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC) in Annapolis.
SOS is an all-volunteer group of breast cancer patients who have successfully battled the disease. These trained mentors are matched with newly diagnosed breast cancer patients according to age, stage and interests. During the first year, more than 50 women were trained as SOS mentors and several patients a week requested matches. SOS volunteers meet with patients the day of surgery and deliver Recovery Gift Bags and words of re-assurance. In 2006, the SOS program is being provided to patients at Frederick Memorial Hospital with a grant to extend services to three additional hospitals in Maryland pending.
Denise wants women to know that they don't have to make this journey alone. And the SOS mentor is there to provide the emotional support they need.
Diane Youngblood
Bedford, TX
Mother of Three Survivors
Six years ago, two of Diane Youngblood's daughters received diagnoses of breast cancer within a week of each other. Her third daughter decided to take the test for a genetic predisposition to breast cancer. She tested positive for the marker and joined her sisters in electing to have prophylactic surgery to reduce the chances of breast cancer or recurrence.
Her daughters were lucky enough to have access to committed health care providers, pioneering research and genetic testing. After her daughters' experiences, Diane decided to commit her efforts to the needs of those that are less fortunate. In honor of her efforts, friends founded the Diane Youngblood Endowment Fund for Breast Cancer Services. The Fund provides opportunities for early breast cancer detection through screening, diagnostic services and treatment referrals to individuals without the necessary financial resources.
Diane organizes fundraising events to raise money for the new endowment. She hosted a Color Me Pink Luncheon to talk about awareness. She created the Color Me Pink Store, selling pink ribbon items and other gifts. She inspired the formation of the Sole Sistuhs, a group of women who do 60 mile walks to raise money for breast cancer awareness. She even developed a hotline (1-800-922-PINK) for those in need of immediate information.
Diane is tireless in her search for every nickel and dime she can raise. And, through her endowment, people living with breast cancer can finally get the access to healthcare they couldn't afford otherwise.
Dorothy Slator Paterson
Houston, TX
Merit Badge for Awareness
Dorothy was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998. Since then, she's made it her mission to unify people and organizations in the fight against the disease.
Dorothy has come up with some innovative approaches to educating young women about breast health. As a Girl Scout Troop Leader and Breast Cancer Awareness Coordinator for the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, Dorothy created the "Heart Pillow Project." This one-time project developed into a year-round campaign in which Girl Scouts sewed more than 7,000 heart-shaped pillows for women living with breast cancer. Dorothy spends each Tuesday morning at the M. D. Anderson Cancer Center counseling breast cancer patients and enjoys presenting these special pillows to them.
Dorothy chaired the Girl Scout Council's Breast Cancer Awareness initiative which, in partnership with M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, instituted a breast cancer awareness merit badge called "In the Pink." She set up several annual events to give Girl Scouts opportunities to earn the badge while teaching the girls and their mothers about breast cancer and how to reduce one's risks. This merit badge is now available to Girl Scouts nationwide.
Dorothy has served in various leadership roles for the Komen Houston Race for the Cure® which benefits the Houston Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Under her supervision as the Race Chair in 2005, the Race went on as planned and broke financial records in spite of significant challenges from two major hurricanes that hit the Gulf Coast during the month beforehand. Her redesign of the Pledge Program helped increase its overall fundraising success by over 550% between 2002 and 2005.
Dorothy has been recognized numerous times for her contribution to the cause. Most recently, by President George W. Bush awarded the President's Call to Service Award.
Ethel Kessler
Bethesda, MD
Stamp for the Cause
In 1994, Ethel Kessler's graphic design business was thriving, with a staff and a large client list. Then she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She knew the diagnosis would alter her life. What she could not have known was how it would change the direction of her career and set her on a journey toward improving women's health.
Ethel decided to downsize her business while she was healing from her surgery and radiation treatments. As she was reconsidering her professional future, she received an unusual invitation from a client, the U.S. Postal Service. They requested that she be one of six art directors in the nation to design commemorative stamps.
It would be another eight months before Congress would pass the bill and the President would sign into law the legislation to produce America's first semi-postal stamp: one that would cover the cost of postage and raise money for breast cancer research.
Since its launch in 1998, the breast cancer stamp has raised over $50 million in support of breast cancer research programs funded through the National Cancer Institute and the U.S. Department of Defense. It remains on sale today, seven years later, in post offices around the country, well beyond the stamp's initial two-year authorization period. In addition, Hungary has adopted the stamp design for its semi-postal program and Ethel's art is now international. The stamp's staying power illustrates the hope and inspiration it has provided to those touched by breast cancer.
In addition to Ethel's volunteer efforts and stamp design work, she now focuses her business on public health education projects, particularly those that advance women's health. Ethel and her colleagues researched, wrote and designed a guide for a free breast and cervical cancer screening program for underinsured women, a diabetes control brochure for adult patients at public health clinics and a toolkit on obesity prevention for adolescent girls.
Faye Dietiker
Cypress, CA
Breast Cancer Angel
In 1999, Faye Dietiker, her sisters and some friends put together about $2,000 in Christmas presents to give to women in the chemotherapy room where Faye received her treatments. The following March, she founded Breast Cancer Angels, a group of volunteers that provides financial and emotional assistance to breast cancer patients and survivors. The Angels help with groceries, housing, clothing, transportation and medical expenses and gives women an opportunity to help other women.
Just six years after its founding, Breast Cancer Angels has given more than $650,000 in financial assistance. The group has more than 200 individual contributors and a long list of corporate sponsors. A corporate sponsor meets the overhead so that 100% of all other donations can go out to assist women in treatment. Currently there are 76 families throughout Orange County, San Diego and Long Beach receiving some type of financial support from Breast Cancer Angels.
A Stage IV survivor, Faye has made a lifetime commitment to dedicating herself to the cause and continues to be a champion in the fight against breast cancer. Her innovative monthly donation structure, beginning at $20, enables women at all income levels to participate in the fight against breast cancer. Faye has not only affected the lives of the Angels' clients and their families, but also of the Angels themselves, by giving them an opportunity to participate in this fight.
Fran Robinson
La Plata, NM
The Navajo Community
Fran's history with breast cancer education started back in 1986 when she was hired to open the nursing department at the San Juan Regional Cancer Center in Farmington, New Mexico. She was the only nurse at the time and took care of all of the women in the community diagnosed with breast cancer.
The large Navajo population in her area suffers a high mortality rate from breast cancer. Because of typically late detection their limited access to care, Navajo women have a lower rate of survival. Fran partnered with a local Navajo breast cancer survivor and together they obtained a grant from the San Juan Medical Foundation to develop a video in Navajo about early breast cancer detection. They later received a second grant from the National Cancer Institute for a second video about treatment options.
Fran continues to work with the Navajo Nation as a breast health specialist. She works with the Department of Health, coordinating the New Mexico Breast and Cervical Cancer Detection program for San Juan County in New Mexico. This program helps low-income women get the screening necessary for early detection. She is also a certified MammaCare Trainer and has developed a three-tiered program teaching breast self-exams and clinical exams.
Fran has been a nurse for 32 years and has dedicated the last 18 years to Oncology. She facilitates the Women's Cancer Support Group and sits on the Cancer Committee as outreach coordinator.
Genne McDonald
Gainesville, FL
Rehabilitating Survivors' Spirits
Genne McDonald's support of breast cancer programs and education began decades before she was diagnosed with the disease herself. After her grandmothers and great aunts had radical mastectomies, Genne got involved in the cause through her career in physical therapy.
For 16 years Genne has worked with breast cancer survivors to regain full or improved physical function. She has provided exercise programs to breast cancer patients recovering from surgery and opened the Women's Center for Rehabilitation in Colorado for women with breast cancer and other women's health diagnoses. She educated the medical community and the community at large about the psychological and physical needs of breast cancer patients and survivors.
More recently, Genne founded Team Survivor North Florida, a group dedicated to helping women living with cancer to support each other as they become more physically active. Team members compete in triathlons, half marathons, yoga, bike events and other sporting events.
In addition to her work for the many breast cancer organizations she is involved with, she continues to make daily connections with breast cancer patients as their dedicated physical therapist. She makes a positive impact on her patients through physical therapy and exercise by inspiring them to become more involved, vocal and physically active themselves.
In 2001, Genne received the Volunteer of the Year Award from her local American Cancer Society chapter and won Lifetime Television's Hero award for her work with breast cancer survivors.
Heather Pick
Columbus, OH
News Anchor Tells Her Story
Most people in Columbus know Heather Pick as the news anchor who comes into their homes each day via the local CBS affiliate. But recently, Heather revealed to hundreds of thousands of viewers that she is battling breast cancer for the second time in her life, aggressively tackling the disease that has now spread to her bones and lungs. She shared her story to let her viewers know that this is a disease that can affect anyone.
Heather's first bout with cancer came when she was just 28 years old and working as anchorwoman in Illinois. When she was first diagnosed with cancer, she took her fight to the airwaves in Illinois, producing the first in-person series on her encounter with breast cancer.
Heather beat the odds once and was clear for five years. She came to Columbus to further her career in broadcast journalism. Last year she learned that she has breast cancer for the second time in her life. Heather is once again using her celebrity to raise awareness about breast cancer. She is open with her viewers about the process of fighting the disease, sharing details of her battle.
Heather remains positive and active, continuing to push herself physically and emotionally. Her example is proof that a breast cancer diagnosis is not the end of your life. In fact, she recently completed the Columbus marathon and ran the Phoenix 1/2 marathon.
Jana Peters
San Francisco, CA
Educating Young Women
Jana Peters was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after she became engaged to be married. At 27, in the midst of planning her wedding, she found a lump in her breast while performing a self-exam. She underwent a mastectomy and chemotherapy, and walked down the aisle on her original wedding date with a breast form in her wedding gown and a wig on her head.
When Jana was first diagnosed there were few organizations in her local area that focused on young women with breast cancer. So Jana founded The Ribbons of Pink Foundation to promote breast health and support young breast cancer survivors.
Since its inception, ROP has raised more than $150,000 for research related to breast cancer in younger women. The Foundation also offers information to young women about breast cancer and instruction on performing a self-exam.
Jana started a support network with three other young breast cancer survivors and began monthly luncheons at Nordstrom's Cafè where they could laugh, cry and educate each other. The women decided to write a book, Nordie's at Noon, about their personal experiences. They hope it will help it will offer support for other cancer survivors. But, most importantly, she wants the book to encourage women to take responsibility for their breast health and to realize that no one is "too young" for breast cancer.
Jeff Popkin
Boston, MA
Son Honors Mom's Memory
After the devastating loss of his mother to breast cancer in 1994, Jeff Popkin dedicated his life to the fight against breast cancer. In memory of his mother, he and his brother founded the Ellie Fund to help fight breast cancer and ease its effects on patients and families.
In the early years, the Ellie Fund donated its income to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Wellness Community. The money helped provide wigs and scarves to women undergoing breast cancer treatment in Boston, patient support services, and a scholarship fund for Boston-area college freshman whose mothers were undergoing treatment.
Most recently, Jeff created a pilot study to address the underserved needs of the local breast cancer community. As a result, the Ellie Fund's Care for Caregiver program provides transportation to medical appointments, meals, daycare and house cleaning for patients and their families, completely free of charge. Since its inception, the Care for the Caregiver program has raised $100,000 and helped more than 50 families.
Because of the Ellie Fund's low overhead, lack of "red tape" and attention to personal service, social workers are able to provide immediate care for their patients, often in less than 48 hours. The Ellie Fund is proud of its ability is to take donations on a Friday and put them to use benefiting patients the following Monday.
Karen Parker-Chesson
Chesapeake, VA
Radio Personality Speaks Out
After her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, Karen Parker-Chesson took to the airways to educate her listeners about breast cancer. Karen uses her position as a radio personality to talk to the local community about breast cancer risks specific to the African American community.
Karen finds innovative ways to educate her listeners and get them involved in the cause. She lets her listeners come along with her for her annual mammogram by documenting the experience on the air and via the station's Web site. With the help of a local jeweler, she created and commissioned the design for the radio stations' signature Breast Cancer awareness pin. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the pin go to a local breast cancer charity. Karen also initiated a local comedy show in 2004 and 2005 for Breast Cancer awareness called "Comedy for the Cure." Local survivors were treated to a free night of laughs with VIP treatment at the area's premiere comedy club. Proceeds from the event went to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
In addition, Karen started a local Breast Cancer survivor's calendar in 2005. The calendar, "A Celebration of Sisterhood," shows the faces and lives of survivors, their family members, friends and those living with Breast Cancer. She also initiated an exercise program called "Lutherobics" which is held in October and February and encourages women to exercise to decrease their risk of breast cancer. The program was named after the late singer, Luther Vandross, who was the one time spokes-voice for her radio station.
Kathy Cawthon
Hampton, VA
Movie with a Message
Kathy Cawthon was diagnosed with breast cancer six weeks after her husband Roger was diagnosed with kidney cancer. During an office visit, one oncologist said of their simultaneous diagnoses, "You had a better chance of winning the lottery." No doubt, they would rather have taken the lottery. But not so today. As 10-year survivors, they wouldn't trade all of the experiences they've had, the people they've met and the lessons they've learned for the chance to go back.
Kathy completed the Komen Race for the Cure in Virginia four years after her diagnosis and five months later completed the Marine Corps Marathon with her husband. Soon after, the couple began receiving invitations to speak at medical conferences and cancer survivor events throughout the U.S. Today, Kathy travels extensively, taking her message of hope, healing and humor to cancer survivors, caregivers and medical professionals around the country.
Most recently, Kathy created a 3 1/2-minute movie, "The Survivor Movie." She originally made it for her best friend who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005. Remembering the terror and depression she experienced when she was diagnosed, Kathy wanted to create something uplifting, life-affirming and empowering. After presenting "The Survivor Movie" to her friend, Kathy decided to post it on the internet. The results have been staggering. It's been viewed 300,000 times in at least 40 countries.
What is most rewarding for Kathy is that the movie seems to help viewers "open up" about their own cancer experiences. Many have written to say that they had been unable to talk about their diagnoses until they viewed the movie.
In addition to everything else she has done in the fight against breast cancer, Kathy and her husband founded The Cancer Crusade, an organization dedicated to "fighting cancer with hope and humor." They publish a free monthly online newsletter, "The Cancer Connection," as well as weekly affirmations. They also released a book, Medicine, Marathons and Miracles: Turning a Diagnosis of Cancer into Personal Victory.
Martha Kaley
Greensboro, NC
Crusader for Early Detection
Martha is the founder of the nation's only nonprofit organization focused solely on funding research for a biological earlier detection test for breast cancer. She hopes that, one day, the organization she created will be able to close its doors forever, having changed the course of the disease.
Martha discovered her breast cancer by chance. Checking a scratch she got while playing with her dog, she found a mass in her breast. Because it was of the same density as her breast tissue, the lump didn't show up in her most recent mammogram. Only after a needle biopsy and subsequent removal of the growth, was her doctor able to determine that the lump was malignant.
Martha decided that the "chance" had to be taken out of breast cancer detection. The technology available to detect this disease was not enough. Martha discovered that, despite all of the money going toward cancer research, very little work was directed toward a biological test to detect breast cancer. She was determined to fund research exclusively for an earlier detection method, and began a small campaign to raise some money.
In 1995, she established Friends ... You Can Count On®. Its mission: to raise funding and provide seed grants to researchers and scientists seeking biological markers for the presence of breast cancer. This biomarker would identify breast cancer at its earliest stages, possibly before a tumor has even had the chance to form.
In 2003, the organization's name was changed to express the mission more clearly – Friends for an Earlier Breast Cancer Test. In the last ten years, Friends has awarded 40 grants and sent over $1.5 million to medical and academic institutions and research projects around the world.
As a result of their research from Friends' funding, several scientists have received extended funding from other sources, and/or published significant work in scientific journals, leading to further discoveries. Martha speaks every day of "when we find the test." It is her vision to change the course of breast cancer as we know it.
Mary Lynn Faunda Donovan
Greer, SC
Low-income Issues
Ten years ago, Mary Lynn's mother was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer. Just a few days later, Mary Lynn discovered a lump in her own breast. At 35, she had breast cancer.
She began volunteering with Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization and joined the board of the Chicagoland Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. But it wasn't until her mother's death from breast cancer four years later, and a friend's death from the disease, that Mary Lynn knew she needed to become a leader in this fight.
As of July 1, 2005, uninsured, low income women ages 18-64 in South Carolina now have access to treatment for breast and cervical cancer thanks to Mary Lynn's leadership in mobilizing South Carolina's Governor and legislators to allocate one million dollars for treatment. The state funding is matched with $3.76 million in federal matching funds through the federal Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act of 2000 to fully fund the program.
South Carolina is now only one of 12 states in the nation to adopt this coverage for treatment to help hundreds of South Carolina women survive the fight against breast and cervical cancer.
Recognizing the critical role of churches in disseminating health care information, Mary Lynn launched Pink Sunday during Breast Cancer Awareness Month as a grassroots effort with churches in 11 Upstate counties to raise awareness. In 2004, more than 200 churches participated, receiving 30,000 packets of breast cancer educational material. In 2005, Pink Sunday participation increased 33% when more than 250 churches registered to participate and 40,000 women received breast cancer educational packets.
These are the highlights of Mary Lynn's three year term as President of the Board of Directors of the Upstate South Carolina Affiliate of the Komen Foundation. Under her leadership, the Affiliate was awarded the prestigious 10th Annual Affiliate Award at the Komen Affiliates' Conference in Dallas 2005 and the 2005 South Carolina Cancer Alliance Cancer Control Award in Early Detection. In 2006, Mary Lynn was awarded the South Carolina Cancer Alliance Excellence Award in Advocacy and Policy for her leadership in securing the $1 million in state funding for breast and cervical cancer treatment. At the June 2006 Mission Conference of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in Dallas, TX, the Pink Sunday program of the Komen Upstate South Carolina Affiliate was selected for the 2006 Education Outreach Honor Roll for best outreach program among the 113 Affiliates nationwide.
Nancy Ryan
Lee, NH
Health Issues are Political Issues
Several months after her first mammogram, Nancy noticed a small lump in her left breast and went to the doctor. Fourteen months and two mammograms later, she was diagnosed with Stage III lobular carcinoma. The large tumor had eluded detection by mammography.
The discrepancy between the "early detection" message and her personal experience compelled Nancy to learn as much as possible about breast cancer. She attended a 1991 breast cancer conference in Chicago where she learned about the newly formed National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC). NBCC taught Nancy that breast cancer is not only a medical issue, it is also a political one.
In 1992, Nancy recruited ten New Hampshire women to help her form the New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition (NHBCC). Nancy wanted to support the NBCC, educate New Hampshire citizens and assist New Hampshire women facing breast cancer. Since 1989, Nancy has donated her time, skills and energy to the cause. She serves as the New Hampshire Field Coordinator for the National Breast Cancer Coalition and serves as the Chair of the New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition.
Seeing the need for a comprehensive breast cancer resource guide for New Hampshire residents, Nancy suggested that NHBCC compile and distribute a book of detection, treatment and recovery services in each of New Hampshire's ten counties. Additionally, Nancy also helped produce a 45-minute educational video about breast cancer for professional, family and volunteer caregivers. The Emmy®-nominated video, "Caring for Mo," is used in nursing schools and hospice programs across the country and Canada.
As Field Coordinator for NBCC, Nancy developed a statewide legislative alert network and coordinates all of the NBCC political and educational initiatives for New Hampshire. NBCC led the nation in passing the federal Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Act, a state-optional program that guarantees treatment for low-income, uninsured women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer through the free federal screening program. New Hampshire was one of the first three states to opt in to the program.
Sarah Copeland
Savannah, GA
Small Business. Big Goals
Sarah Copeland's life changed in June 2001 when her aunt and godmother, Elizabeth "Libby" Burns, died of breast cancer at the age of 48. Nine months later, Sarah, and her cousin Amie, formed LibLines, a non-profit organization, in honor of Aunty Libby and her battle.
Sarah established LibLines with a line of greeting cards designed to facilitate open communication between individuals with cancer, their family and their friends. Three lines of greeting cards were created – Lifts, Life and Loves – which allow everyone to share hope, strength and encouragement with friends and relatives. All profits from the greeting cards are used to assist in the battle against breast cancer.
A simple goal of providing targeted greeting cards has blossomed into a dedicated focus on encouraging communication, facilitating education, increasing awareness and providing support.
Sarah has also honored her Aunt Libby in other ways. When Sarah's Aunt was first diagnosed with breast cancer, Sarah and her husband signed up for a 60-mile walk for breast cancer. Instead of writing Libby's name on her T-shirt, Sarah decided to show her support by dying her hair pink. To this day, Sarah colors her hair pink to raise breast cancer awareness. At the time, she did not realize a splash of color would foster communication about breast cancer. Today, Sarah is known around Savannah, GA for her pink hair – it has become a trademark and conversation piece.
Sarah's efforts are not limited to LibLines or her pink hair. She has been involved with fundraisers, such as "Chocoholic Frolic," "Bowling for Boobs," "Bowling for Breast Cancer," and the "Pink Hat Extravaganza." In addition, Sarah has served as the co-chair for Savannah Relay for Life for the past three years, and is active with The Better Breast Health program, The Junior League of Savannah and is a Chamber of Commerce Ambassador.
Shaney Jo Darden
San Diego, CA
Creativity for the Cause
Shaney Jo Darden has traveled the globe raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research, treatment and prevention. She co-founded the Keep A Breast Foundation in an effort to bring a fresh approach to fundraising for breast cancer and at the same time be relevant and inspiring to today's youth.
The Keep A Breast Foundation enlists artists to create one-of-a-kind plaster forms of the female torso and auctions them off to raise awareness and funding for breast cancer research and treatment. "We are often struck by the absolute and overwhelming feeling that the work we're doing is important. We can make the difference by raising awareness, raising people's spirits and helping to save lives," says Shaney Jo.
Shaney enlists some of today's most progressive artists, athletes and celebrities to participate in the cause. A number of innovative personalities have become involved with Keep A Breast events, like Dita Von Tesse, pro surfers Lisa Anderson and Layne Beachley, and musicians Tom Delonge of Blink182, Maya Ford of the Donnas and the line-up from the Foo Fighters. These individuals have been tremendously instrumental in helping Keep A Breast raise funds and inform young people about breast cancer.
The decorated plaster casts of the female torsos are auctioned at events all over the world. Over the past five years Keep A Breast benefits have attracted young and old alike raising many thousands of dollars on behalf of breast cancer organizations near and far. In 2005, Keep A Breast raised more than $95,000 and currently has plans to exceed this milestone and spread its unique brand of fundraising and awareness to communities in need throughout the globe.
Sharon Bassett
Indianapolis, IN
A Hand to Hold
Sharon was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago and since that time, she was in remission twice. While with Stage IV cancer, she underwent experimental treatment.
But rather than focus on her own needs, she realized there are other people with breast cancer who have neither the support of family and friends, nor the financial resources to meet their basic needs.
In October 2002, Bassett and her family established the Sharon L. Bassett Fund to help families in Indiana and Illinois dealing with breast cancer. Sharon's vision is to provide "a hand to hold onto" for people dealing with breast cancer and their families.
The fund has supplied wigs for women undergoing chemotherapy, child care costs during and after treatment, financial assistance for gas, travel for treatment and often a basket of hand selected items that are unique to the interests of the man or woman with breast cancer. One of the most extraordinary things has been to provide special getaways for families at the end of treatment. Sharon is a believer in having "something to look forward to." Finally, the Fund has provided $45,000 to support oncology research.
On June 16, 2006 Sharon passed away. Her legacy is the Sharon L. Bassett Fund. To date, Sharon and her friends and family have raised more than $300,000 to help families in Indianapolis and across central Indiana and Illinois dealing with breast cancer.
Tammy Greyshock
Charlotte, NC
Laughing for a Cure
In the late 1980s, Tammy's 39-year-old mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Watching her mother face her own mortality at such a young age had a tremendous impact on her, and led her to work with the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in its mission to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease.
In 2002, Tammy founded Laugh for the Cure®. An evening at Laugh for the Cure features performances from well-known comedians and silent and live auctions. The organization has just celebrated its fifth anniversary with an event in Charlotte. In 2005, Tammy organized a Laugh event in Spokane, Washington.
These events have raised almost $100,000 for local Komen Affiliates and Tammy plans to build on their success by continuing to expand into other markets around the country. Additional information about bringing a Laugh for the Cure to your town is available on their Web site at:
www.laughforthecure.com Laugh for the Cure has been recognized by the Komen Charlotte Affiliate and the Komen National Affiliate for its ability to raise awareness and funding for breast health education, screening and treatment efforts in a community.
