Editor’s Note: This post was written by our Marketing Manager, Rebecca Anderson.

We recently learned that another of the nine beautiful women who attended our first Metastatic Breast Cancer Retreat last April has passed away. It’s been just one year and now three of the attendees are no longer with us. This news was a heart-crushing reminder of the relentless nature of Stage 4 breast cancer. Our blog series last year defined metastatic breast cancer as “cancer that will be a part of your life…for the rest of your life.”

As we learned of yet another woman gone too soon, our friend and retreat visionary, Lillie Shockney, uplifted us with this poem by Henry Van Dyke:

I am standing upon the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze
and starts for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength,
and I stand and watch until at last she hangs
like a speck of white cloud
just where the sea and sky come down to mingle with each other.
Then someone at my side says,
“There she goes!”

Gone where?

Gone from my sight … that is all.
She is just as large in mast and hull and spar
as she was when she left my side
and just as able to bear her load of living freight
to the place of destination.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her.
And just at the moment
when someone at my side says,
“There she goes!”

There are other eyes watching her coming …
and other voices ready to take up the glad shout …
“Here she comes!”

We hope for the day metastatic breast cancer will be eradicated and no more lives will be lost to this terrible disease. Yet, for now, these verses remind us that while a person’s body may be overcome by cancer, her impact in our lives is never overcome. As I reflect on the three hopeful women from last year’s retreat who’ve since passed away, I still remember their serene smiles, their honest revelations about their diagnoses, their fears about the future, and their wishes that their loved ones wouldn’t have to suffer in losing them. I only spent 48 hours with them, but in that time I heard their laughs, received their hugs, and was inspired by their joy and hope in the midst of their fears.  If these women’s sails still loom so large in my own thoughts, how much more must each of them remain “an object of beauty and strength” in the hearts of her loved ones?

The post Gone from Our Sight appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

We recently celebrated our third annual Legends Pink Night with the Texas Legends, our local NBA Development League team. Just like in 2015 & 2016,
it was a fun and festive night in which the Legends players donned pink, as did their dancers and fans, in celebration of Helping Women Now.  We again had lots of fun engaging with fans and followers on social media using the hashtag: #LegendsPinkNight. And, most importantly, we again honored the brave survivors in the arena and took a moment to reflect on how many fans—and their families—had been touched in some way by breast cancer.

However, we did something new and very special this year. Local high school students who had fundraised in support of NBCF’s programs joined us on center court during halftime to connect an oversized pink chain link. Each link in the chain represented $40 raised/donated. These generous and
passionate young supporters raised over $10,000 to help women affected by
breast cancer through our free early detection screenings, Patient Navigation Program, and breast health education initiatives.

What made this moment that much more special was that these students came from a number of rival high schools throughout Frisco Independent School District. While they compete against one another on the athletic fields and at regional competitions for a variety of academic and extracurricular activities, they united together for the cause of helping women affected by breast cancer. We are so thankful to both the Legends and these FISD fundraisers for helping us share NBCF’s mission and programs with those who need it most.

If your school, church, sports team, club, sorority or fraternity is interested in putting together your own campaign to make a difference for those affected by breast cancer, please email our Fundraising team at fundraising@nbcf.org. You can borrow this Linked by Pink idea that
was such a success for these FISD students or do something unique. Check out our “Put the Fun Back in Fundraising” blog post for more ideas.

Finally, the thing we loved most about Legends Pink Night was the chance to meet inspiring supporters and survivors in our local community, and we’d like to “meet” you too! If you’d like to share your survival story and pictures with us, use the hashtag #HopeJourney on Instagram and you just might help give hope to others.

The post Linked by Pink with Texas Legends and Frisco ISD appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Editor’s Note: This post was written by NBCF Programs Coordinator, Cinthia Gonzalez.

Every year National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) partners with Convoy of Hope to provide breast cancer education and early detection services to over 10,000 women at community outreaches across the country. These events take place in both urban and rural communities, serving women and families in need. For many of these women, it’s the first time they’ve been empowered to take charge of their breast health.

This summer I had the privilege of serving at one of these events alongside 56 NBCF volunteers. These were some of the most encouraging and dedicated women I have ever met. The event took place in Chicago on what must have been one of the rainiest days of the year. As rain began to pour and mud started to form around the NBCF tent and entryways, the unplanned weather only fueled the volunteers’ passion even more. They were committed to reaching as many women as possible.

Most of the women that attend these outreaches come on a mission to leave with a new pair of shoes for their children or a bag full of groceries; they don’t come thinking of themselves. That is where the NBCF team comes in. We remind them just how important they are and equip them with the tools they need to be proactive about their health. Many volunteers who help us are breast cancer survivors who know the importance of early detection and are eager to share their story.

One of those volunteers is Kim Wurtz. Kim volunteered at the Worcester, Massachusetts outreach event earlier this year. She was diagnosed with breast cancer on November 2014 and underwent a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. Kim remembers her experience with breast cancer as “a journey with a lot of hills and valleys,” but says the love and support of her loved ones carried her to healing. “I volunteered with Convoy of Hope because I felt so lucky to have survived breast cancer with the support of family and friends. I just wanted to pass it forward and help someone else,” she said.

Kim shared, “I will always see the good in situations because, after all, I am here to see them!” Like Kim, many of the NBCF volunteers that serve in the breast health tent are inspired to give back because they have a story to tell. They are breast cancer survivors, family members and friends of a patient or survivor, or supporters of early detection. Devoting an entire Saturday, in addition to the hours of training and preparation beforehand, is a way to give back.

Without these volunteers, NBCF would not be able to share hope with thousands of women in need. Our mission is to provide help and inspire hope to those affected by breast cancer, and our volunteers are the hands and feet that allow us to do this. On behalf of the entire NBCF team, we want to express our gratitude and appreciation for our volunteers. Thank you for joining us in Helping Women Now!

To find out how you can help educate women in your community, please contact our NBCF volunteer team at volunteer@nbcf.org.

The post The Hands and Feet of HOPE appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

One of those outstanding individuals is Agnes Musonda, a Health Promotion Manager in Zambia. Like patient navigators here in the U.S., Agnes plays a critical role in eliminating barriers and opening doors for the women she serves. One way she does this is by collaborating with Zambia’s Ministry of Health and Ministry of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs. By securing buy-in from key decision makers, she is able to provide more opportunities for women in need.

Agnes then works closely with traditional leaders and advisors within each tribe who agree to include Agnes in the tribal meetings they conduct with their people. During these meetings, Agnes discusses the importance of screenings and encourages eligible women to access the free health screenings available to them. Due to cultural norms within Zambia, another important aspect of these outreach efforts is including both men and women in the meetings so both genders recognize the importance of being proactive about cervical and breast health. This helps ensure women have adequate support and encouragement to learn to be more proactive with their own breast health. As a result, thousands of women are receiving free screenings through this program.

While most of the outreach efforts are conducted in person, Agnes and the Health Promotion Team continue to innovate to find new ways to reach more Zambians with this potentially life-saving breast health education. They recently partnered with Radio Bangwela 89.7 to conduct live phone-in interviews regarding breast and cervical cancer screening services. There was a tremendous response from the community as many listeners called in with their cancer questions.

The impact of this work is powerful as thousands of Zambians are being educated, empowered, and screened…and we are grateful to play a part in this. We thank Agnes and the Health Promotion Team, as well as the entire Pink Ribbon Red Ribbon organization, for extending the mission of Helping Women Now beyond our borders.

The post Agnes’ Story: Helping Tribal Women Now appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

On February 6, 2016, we partnered with the NBA D-League Texas Legends for our second annual #LegendsPinkNight. Like last year, the players, dancers and fans donned pink, and we honored survivors at center court during halftime. NBCF CEO & Co-founder Janelle Hail, a 36-year breast cancer survivor, shared the encouraging news that there are 2.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. today.

However, this year’s event held special meaning for one Legends player, forward Jamil Wilson. “Millie”, as his teammates call him, played in memory of his mother, Carolyn, who died of complications related to breast cancer when he was a teen. We spoke with him two days before Legends Pink Night, and he shared how his mom is always with their family in spirit. He sees her presence in the way his younger sister, Jazmin, looks just like her, or the way his older sister, Kamisha, is raising her own young son.

Jamil played an outstanding game Saturday night, with his older sister, visiting from Wisconsin, in attendance. He contributed 25 points and
10 rebounds to the Legends’ 108-107 victory over the Austin Spurs. He has accomplished many impressive basketball feats—including an Elite Eight appearance during his collegiate career—but we think his mom would be most proud of the way he remembers the important lessons she taught him, including the message that it is better to give than receive.

Thank you to Jamil and all of the Texas Legends staff, coaches, players, dancers and fans for helping us celebrate the survivors and remember the moms, sisters, daughters, aunts, and grandmas who are no longer here to cheer on their loved ones in person.

The post More than a Pink Jersey appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, we’re sharing tips inspired by Trisha on how to host a celebration that is as thoughtful as it is delicious:

Be accommodating. Trisha’s team planned a special healthy menu, including meatless dishes like Sweet Pea sliders, Roasted Beet Salad, Brussels sprouts with Pistachios, and “Chickless Pot Pie”. She even provided an ingredients’ list in advance in case of any food allergies. Your family and friends with special dietary needs will appreciate when you make an effort to be considerate in your menu planning.

Make it pretty and personal. Trisha may be the celebrity, but she made each guest feel like a rockstar. Little extras like printed menus, fresh flowers and place cards for your guests go a long way in creating a table-scape that looks inviting and polished.

Be authentic. Trisha shared that what made the event so special was the intimate conversation and that her mother would have loved it, saying, “This was a really cool thing and we all need to encourage each other.“*
Amidst the meal planning and decorating, never forget that your guests
are most thankful for you. Remember to show them you feel the same.

The luncheon at Trisha’s home is a beautiful reminder that delicious food and a well-dressed table create the perfect ambience for hope. Guests
also received mini makeovers at JCPenney, a private concert, Trisha’s cookware set, a Trisha’s Table cookbook, and our very own HOPE
tote. However, it was the heart behind the event that made it such a success.

*Source: People Magazine. “Trisha Yearwood Honors Her Mother with Emotional Event at Her Home” Nov. 2015

The post Trisha Yearwood: Serving Up Hope appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

For Janet, receiving a stage-two breast cancer diagnosis on April Fool’s Day was a bit ironic. As many North Texans know, Janet spent over 18 years as a local medical and health news reporter for WFAA, so she was no stranger to the subject of cancer. However, she is now experiencing it firsthand and remains a strong and confident female figure in the Dallas-Ft. Worth community. With her infectious “go-getter” attitude, many can relate to her battle with breast cancer. Janet stated during our interview, “I never thought, ‘Why me?’ I knew that anyone, even children, can get cancer. I had done everything I could to prevent it. And still, I got cancer.” We hope you enjoy our Q&A with Janet St. James (JSJ) as she reveals how she moved beyond the shock of her diagnosis, which came at a particularly challenging time.

NBCF: Introduce yourself!

JSJ: My name is Janet St. James. I am a proud mother of three and currently Asst. VP of Strategic Communications at HCA North Texas, a large hospital system that includes 12 hospitals and dozens of other clinics.

NBCF: Tell us about your breast cancer experience. Did early detection play a role in detecting your breast cancer?

JSJ: I was told that I have breast cancer on April 1, 2015, just days before I was to start my new job at HCA. I have had annual mammograms for many years due to dense and lumpy breasts. Most recently, I had been monitored every six months as doctors watched a spot in my right breast. I had been given a clean bill of health just a few months earlier.

NBCF: What were your first thoughts when you received your diagnosis?

JSJ: My first thought was that I could not believe the timing. I was due to start a new job on Monday. Would I have a job?  Would I be able to get medical care? My own personal health was not my top concern, interestingly. Some say that time slows down for many people when they hear the word “cancer”. For me, life sped up!

NBCF: What would you tell a friend or family member about early detection?

JSJ: Early detection is the best hope for long-term survival. Had I not gone for my annual well-woman exam, my cancer might have been missed for months, perhaps even another year.

NBCF: If you could share one piece of wisdom with a large group of people, what would it be?

JSJ: Don’t wallow in self-pity or fear. Obsessing about the negative or unknown only makes the ordeal harder, for yourself and for your family. Arm yourself with education and information. Information holds the power to help make lifesaving decisions and calm the worry of the unknown.

NBCF: What are some ways your support system encouraged or helped you during your treatment?

JSJ: My family and friends have been there to provide meals for my family, pick up kids, send me cheerful care packages and flowers, and offer general encouragement. I don’t generally think of myself as someone who needs much help. I have to say, help provided without asking or expecting anything in return is a gift I can never repay. The support of friends and family has allowed me to build strength, instead of expend it.

NBCF: Describe your perfect day off?

JSJ: My perfect day, at least during treatment, involves drifting in the pool, listening to the sounds of nature in my backyard, and enjoying a great meal with my family. My favorite way to spend the weekend is with my kids and husband.  Whatever we do together is good!

NBCF: What activities or groups in North Texas are you involved in and/or passionate about?

JSJ: With cancer treatment, a new career, and three busy children in multiple activities, I’m involved in about all I can handle! I enjoy the benefits of exercise. Every day, whether I have the energy or not, I exercise. I love to cook. And, I am passionate about supporting my children in whatever activities they enjoy.

We are grateful that Janet shared her story with us. She exemplifies the hope that so many women must cling to as they cope with having breast cancer in the midst of balancing family and career. We invite you to help us give hope to other women on North Texas Giving Day by making a donation to NBCF. Remember, this is a one-day giving event! Any amount you give truly helps.

The post Janet St. James: The Interviewer Becomes the Interviewee appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Update (8/2021): We are heartbroken to share the news of Jennifer’s passing after a recurrence with breast cancer at the age of 37. After her diagnosis, she lived a life full of love for her family and community, a dedication to advocacy, and a heart to achieve big goals and dreams. Her story and legacy continue through her husband, Jon, six-year-old daughter, Harper, and the countless others she has inspired along her journey.

There is a myth among young women that breast cancer only affects women our grandmother’s age; we feel almost invincible to the risk. However, Jennifer was diagnosed at just 24 years old. Suddenly, expectations of having a family or enjoying time with friends were pushed aside as Jennifer educated herself about breast cancer. Our conversation with Jennifer reveals how she triumphed during this stage of her life and can now give back to other women who are diagnosed at a young age.

NBCF: Tell us about your breast cancer experience. Did early detection play a role in detecting your breast cancer?

JA: Yes, early detection definitely did. I was 24 years old when I was diagnosed. I went to my gynecologist for some lumps I had found. They told me it was probably just fibroids, but to go get a mammogram. I went the next day and got a mammogram. Sure enough, I had breast cancer. I was 24 and naïve and not thinking the worst. I feel other women my age are scared to call their doctors. I am so glad I did.

NBCF: What were your first thoughts when you received your diagnosis?

JA: It was just surreal. It was one of those things you think would never happen to you. I had a very positive attitude throughout the whole thing. I never wanted to think that this could kill me. I wanted to keep a great attitude and be strong for my friends and family.

NBCF: What has been your biggest blessing in life, post breast cancer?

JA: Friends and family and now my daughter. I have a six-month old little girl. When I got diagnosed, I wasn’t sure if would be hard or easy to get pregnant. She is such an amazing part of every day.

NBCF: What would you tell a friend or family member about early detection?

JA: Early Detection is key. Once you know yourself, you can be aware of any problems and get to a doctor quickly. The sooner you get the information you need, the sooner you can take action. It just may save your life.

NBCF: If you could share one piece of wisdom with a large group of people, what would it be?

JA: Attitude is everything, both in breast cancer and in life. The biggest message I have vocalized post-treatment was that I wanted to stay positive and get back to a normal life as quickly as possible. I talk to so many people who only told me negative things about breast cancer. I wanted to just focus on the light at the end of the tunnel and be thankful for my health and the care of my doctors.

NBCF: Favorite song to sing in the car?

JA: Journey! “Don’t Stop Believing.”

NBCF: If you could trade lives with anyone for one day, who would it be?

JA: Carrie Underwood! She can sing, and I can’t carry a tune.

NBCF: What activities or groups in North Texas are you involved in and/or passionate about?

JA: I actually speak to and counsel other young breast cancer patients. My doctor contacts me when she feels there is a woman I can help. Just talking to them helps them feel at ease, and I try to share my message of keeping a positive attitude. When I was diagnosed, there was no one my age to talk to, so I want to make their journeys a little easier!

I am also involved in a Real-Estate Networking Group!

NBCF: What is your favorite way to spend the weekend in DFW?

JA: Brunching, especially during fall and spring weather. I also love to watch Texas Tech and Dallas Cowboys Football, and on really nice days, going to the dog park with our dog.

Jennifer inspires us with her unwavering optimism and selfless compassion. We hope you join Jennifer and NBCF in spreading the message of Early Detection by making a donation to NBCF on North Texas Giving Day. Remember, this is a one-day giving event! Any amount you give truly helps.

The post Jennifer Ackerman: You’re Never Too Young for an Early Detection Plan appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

A breast cancer diagnosis tends to have a ripple effect, taking no mercy on those who encounter its path. It affects the friends, family, and coworkers of the patient too. MJ experienced this ripple effect when both of her sisters were diagnosed with breast cancer. MJ is a determined woman and a fearless leader. It is no wonder that these character traits have enabled her to remain hopeful while providing help to her two sisters. We first met MJ when her daughter’s volleyball team hosted a fundraiser in our honor, and she continues to support us in Helping Women Now. We chatted with MJ. Her insights will encourage you, especially if you too are the loved one of a breast cancer patient or survivor.

NBCF: Introduce yourself!

MJ: MJ Pritchard, 58, Vice President of the Frisco Chamber of Commerce.  I have lived in Frisco since 2002, worked in Frisco since 1998, and lived in the Metroplex since 1997.

NBCF: Tell us about your breast cancer experience. Did early detection play a role in detecting your breast cancer?

MJ: My surviving sister was diagnosed with breast cancer 17 years ago. Unfortunately, her doctor had indicated she was ok three times prior to taking things more seriously. By then, she was a stage-three cancer patient. She had a broken spine and numerous knee surgeries, and then a horrible bout with depression. It was only when our second sister was diagnosed with breast cancer, that my first sister was able to rise up out of the depression to help her big sister. Our second sister died only four months after her diagnosis due to a severe blood-born infection that was a result of her chemo port.

Without hesitation, I believe that early detection taken seriously, with the proper treatment, would have made the difference in both my sisters’ lives.

NBCF: What would you tell a friend or family member about early detection?

MJ: Do your monthly self-examinations, get your annual mammograms and make sure all of those around you are doing the same.

NBCF: If you could share one piece of wisdom with a large group of people, what would it be?

MJ: Take care to be diligent in watching for the early signs, do all you can to take care of your body and stay healthy.

NBCF: Who inspires you?

MJ: Without a doubt, my surviving sister, Mary Lynn Presley. She also survived a major life threatening auto accident this last Thanksgiving. She was in a coma for nine days and was told she might not walk for months. She was walking in three weeks and is now driving again.

NBCF: Describe your perfect day off?

MJ: A great work out, time with friends and family, exploring something new, whether it be a new restaurant, recipe, or walking spot. During volleyball season, it would have to be watching my youngest play with her college team, MSU (Midwestern State University) in Wichita Falls, TX.

NBCF: What activities or groups in North Texas are you involved in and/or passionate about?

MJ: There are two groups I am most passionate about. The first is the Frisco Chamber of Commerce that I have the privilege of working with daily. The second group is the Frisco Education Foundation, where I have happily served for 13 years with a rotation off of their board for a year. I am incoming President for the Foundation, and there truly is no greater joy than knowing we are making a difference in the next generation through college scholarship, grants for the classroom and a STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics) academy for middle schoolers.

NBCF: Why would you encourage someone to give to NBCF, a breast cancer charity, on North Texas Giving Day?

MJ: It’s all about early detection and providing that for some folks that do not have the luxury of great insurance coverage. NBCF provides a vital service to those that need breast screening and education. The support that NBCF offers is more than a worthy cause, it is human compassion at its best.

We are honored that MJ shared her story of supporting her sisters with hope and positivity. We hope you join MJ and NBCF in spreading the message of early detection by making a donation to NBCF on North Texas Giving Day. Remember, this is a one-day giving event! Any amount you
give truly helps.

The post MJ Pritchard: A Sisterhood of Hope appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Most of the moms we know are proud of their children, but we also know many feel a certain amount of pressure to raise kids who are “successful”.   Social media provides a seemingly endless stream of competitions for the modern mom to feel her child has been thrown into: strongest athlete/scholar/musician, earliest child to hit developmental milestones, best-dressed child (with bonus points for multiple well-dressed children in color-coordinated outfits), and the list goes on and on. These aren’t bad things, but many are both subjective and elusive. Despite best efforts, not every kid can be valedictorian, captain of the football team, or lead soloist in the choir. Constant emphasis on these types of “success” can prove frustrating to both the child and the parent—a mistake that parenting author Tim Elmore calls “praising the wrong things”. So, what should we value most? Here at NBCF, we measure our success in how we help those in need.

With the right encouragement, most kids can succeed at being kind, generous and helping others. Just as the most talented athletes and musicians began developing their skills at early ages, it’s never too early to practice philanthropy. Parents Magazine has put together a great list of 9 ways to teach your child about charity. One great way to promote generosity in your home is to create a family fundraiser or encourage your children to create their own. Teenage sisters Paige and Madison Mougey used their love of tennis to organize “Serve for a Cause”, a Junior Tennis Tournament, in honor of their mother who’d been diagnosed with the disease. They raised $2,692 for NBCF!

Sisters Emma and Gressa New, just nine and eleven years old, leveraged their entrepreneurial skills to create “Clean up for Cancer”, selling handmade soaps at agricultural competitions to benefit NBCF.

The girls’ hockey teams at Berkshire High School and Westminster High School squared off against one another on the field, but they were united in their commitment to raise funds for NBCF in their “Play 4 the Cure” hockey game.

And we are blown away that young Elaina would use her birthday party, for the sixth consecutive year, to drum up funds for NBCF!

These are just a handful of the many generous kids who’ve chosen to start a fundraiser for us. If you or your children want to join us in helping women affected by breast cancer, please contact our fundraising department to get started. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms we support and to the moms raising generous kids like these!

The post The #1 Way to Raise “Successful” Children appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

MadLyn was raised by her father, who always encouraged her to express herself and pursue her talents in singing and songwriting. Music motivated her to stay positive even in the most trying times; in fact, she decided to give herself the stage name ‘MadLyn’ after her mother, Madelyn. It was these experiences and her talent that inspired her to create The Siren Song: a concert and artistic community where individuals can use their creativity to acknowledge loss and celebrate life. At the concert, musicians and artists come together to perform, and 60% of the ticket sales are donated back to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.  “The organization has done a lot for women over the years, acting as a solid support system to those fighting the disease,” says MadLyn. “Giving back to important causes that matter can really fuel us to be bigger than ourselves.” We love that MadLyn is using her passion for music to give hope to others.

When asked about her favorite part of the event, MadLyn said she loves “being able to share the song I wrote for my mom, “That was Madelyn.” The song, she says, always touches the audience, and it’s a way for her to keep her mother’s memory alive. MadLyn is one amazing young woman who is working hard to spread breast cancer awareness and promote the importance of early detection. NBCF is thankful for women like MadLyn who are using their platform to spread the message of hope.

MadLyn will be hosting her 4^th Siren Song for NBCF on Thursday, February 19^th 2015 in Venice, CA. Supporters can purchase tickets online or at the venue door the night of the event. Check out MadLyn’s YouTube channel to view her newest music video, “Kiss Me Goodbye.”,

The post Music Makes People Come Together appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

In life, just as on the court, we can do more (and overcome more) when we work together. Friends can encourage healthy habits, like being proactive with your health or scheduling a mammogram. Breast cancer survivors often share that their loved ones gave them the courage to endure exhausting and painful treatments. Here at NBCF, we absolutely could not achieve our mission of Helping Women Now without the financial support of our sponsors, fundraisers and donors or the partnership of the medical facilities we fund across the U.S.

Now we have teamed up with the Texas Legends, NBA D-League team, to honor women in the Dallas-Ft. Worth community affected by breast cancer. Nancy Lieberman, Basketball Hall of Famer of the Texas Legends, shares that “Breast Cancer does not discriminate against anyone. It’s a battle we all must fight together, both women and men.” As the first female coach of a professional men’s basketball team, Nancy is well qualified to speak on the issue of men and women successfully working together to make a difference. Her bio as a player and coach is quite impressive, but we’re even more inspired by Nancy’s commitment to giving hope to others, including women affected by breast cancer.

If you’re in the DFW area, please join us on February 7^th for the Texas Legends game against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers! FREE tickets are available for our supporters–get them today!

The post Hope is a Team Sport appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

This is where caring women like Evelyn Rosales come in. Evelyn, a Patient Navigator at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, TX, has dedicated her life to helping women obtain resources and overcome the obstacles of breast cancer. “Each day I see about 20-30 women,” says Evelyn. This includes helping women get signed up to come in for their mammograms, spending time counseling women on their diagnosis, and translating the findings to help women plan out the next steps in their treatment. “It can be very emotional,” says Evelyn of her time with the women. “Each day brings new surprises; mostly we try to smile a lot here so that women aren’t fearful.”

Each year, the National Breast Cancer Foundation gives approximately $970,000 in grants to support 24 Patient Navigators at partner hospitals across the U.S. “At Parkland, these grants help free the radiologist and gives us efficiency in our day to enable more patients.” This means that more women are being screened and ultimately, more lives are being saved. Additionally, Evelyn notes that the grants help her “develop an ongoing relationship with the Oncology clinic, nurses in other departments, and breast surgeons.” This has helped to allow women who have been diagnosed to see a surgeon in as little as two weeks!

Evelyn’s other accomplishments include reducing the time between a woman’s mammogram and a woman’s biopsy to only 15 days. Evelyn’s success stems from her unique ability to relate to the women who visit Parkland Hospital. It is all about “building a relationship before the biopsy,” she says. “I am able to get women to trust me, let me answer her questions, address her fears, discuss her options, and offer a hug… sometimes those ‘treatments’ are the best kind in the road to recovery.”

Patient Navigation is an integral part in a woman’s survival. Without this program, many underserved women would be lost during the process. Evelyn Rosales, as well as our other Patient Navigators, are part of the pathway to treatment and ultimately survival.

The post Navigating Breast Cancer appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Here at NBCF, we get a lot of interesting fundraising ideas sent to us, but this one really caught our attention. Their creative idea? The Fancy Feather group carries around a big, loud rooster and brings it to local offices in their community to make an appearance. Imagine a quiet work day, things going smoothly when all of a sudden teens walk in with an obnoxious farm animal. The only way for the business to get rid of the commotion is to make a donation to NBCF and choose the rooster’s next location to target! Jaci Kroupa, the club’s manager, says the businesses “generally get a big laugh out of it and then happily send the rooster to a competitor. They tend to talk about it for years after.”

In total, Fancy Feathers 4H Club donated over $1000 to NBCF with their Pass-A-Rooster Fundraiser in 2013, and they plan on hosting another rooster pass in 2014! This Texas-sized donation will help over 10 women obtain mammograms through our National Mammography Program.

Want to help? Donate to Fancy Feathers Fundraiser or start your own.

The post Fancy Seeing You Here! appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Jack, Dan, John, and Roger were planning a serious road trip. Multiple states. Cross-country, even. Then they thought, with all this effort going into the road trip, why not have it benefit the National Breast Cancer Foundation?

The Name: Rollin’ 4 Cancer

The Mission: One limo, 2 weeks, 4 guys, 6 states, 12 cities, 5000 miles to raise money for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

The Journey: California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana.

The Destination: The Super Bowl!

But wait, they don’t have tickets. Why would four guys drive across the country to the city where the Super Bowl is being hosted and not actually go to the Super Bowl? Because with their decked-out limo and charismatic demeanors, that was the best place to raise funds and awareness – in front of an audience of thousands.

Want to help? Donate to the Rollin’ 4 Cancer fundraiser or start your own!

The post 4 Guys, A Limo and a Fundraiser appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Sue was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2010. Because of her close ties to the B&B community, she posted about her illness soon after her diagnosis.

Take a Deep Breath & Then Walk Into the Fire

“That’s what he did. My dad shaped my life. He instilled his values, compassion and most of all his courage. As a career firefighter he chose to willingly go into burning buldings.

The previous week began with being put to the test. Can I walk a firery cancer road and walk back out?

Last Monday morning (2/15), I found the dreaded lump. It wasn’t there Sunday. A classic symptom for IBC, a lump that seemingly appears overnight. It doesn’t show up early on mammogram but that’s another subject.

The next morning, I was in the office of my internest. From his office I was sent for a mammogram and then a ultrasound.

Wednesday was numerous phone calls.

Thursday more doctor appointments and testing. Result: Wait for the entire weekend.

It was the longest weekend I can remember. Even with the love and support of my adult children, brothers, family and friends that are also my family, the minutes ticked by slowly like hours.

That I was alone beat me up worse than if someone had taken a 2×4 or baseball bat and beat me with it. I spent the weekend keeping as busy as I could in my shop, doing what I love, making product.

With the long weekend wait behind me, my doctor called with the results of the breast/lymph node biopsies: positive for malignancy.

Today was a full body bone scan with contrast and a full body CT also with contrast to look for involvement elsewhere.

This Thursday afternooon, I will know the remainer of the treatment plan which now includes mastectomy and removal of at least 4 lymph nodes.

Chemo, radiation, either one or both, are still undecided until full results of the above and two other test relults are known.

How am I doing? I am still reeling, my mind running redline rpm’s. I think often I wish I could cry in the arms of my husband. I’m not a wimp, I can do this; I tell myself. My faith is strong as ever. I will wake up tomorrow and take on the day. I will take each day as it comes and I will deal with it, one step at a time.

I regret the emotional pain this is causing in those that love me. I hope those that I love, know the depth of the love I have for them.

There are some that I love that I am unable to tell them for fear of being inappropriate. I hope they know how much they mean to me, and yes, love.

I pray that I will keep my faith and courage strong. In my mind and heart, I am holding both the hand of God in one hand and my dad’s hand in the other. ”

The post In Memory of Sue, The Grand Dame of Badger & Blade appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

One of the guests that stopped by our tent, Sherylynn, had been putting off getting a mammogram because she was scared to go to the doctor’s office. She pre-qualified for a free mammogram through our partner breast health facility that day.  

Through these outreaches, we offered free educational materials, signed women up to receive early detection text reminders, showed women how to do breast self-exams, pre-qualified women for free mammograms through our partner breast health facilities and, in some locations, provided free mammograms through our facility partners’ mammovans.

“I’m a single mom and needed to get groceries. I didn’t realize the NBCF tent was going to be here. I just signed up to receive qualification for a mammogram. This will help me so much. I am overwhelmed by how much is here, not just for my kids but also for me!“

– Crystal, Convoy of Hope guest

Here’s a look at our 2012 Convoy of Hope outreaches by the numbers:

• 5,157 guests served
• 227 volunteers
• 442 pre-qualified for free mammograms through our partner breast health facilities
• 42 screening mammograms on-site
• 3,475 signed up for the NBCF early detection plan to receive text reminders
• 3,313 received training on how to do a breast self exam
• 18,010 educational materials distributed

Thank you for helping us serve these women in partnership with Convoy of Hope this year!  We are looking forward to our next outreach in 2013!

The post Convoy of Hope: A Look Back at 2012 appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

At the end of the night, there were a lot of bald heads!

Want to help? Start your own fundraiser today!

The post Diana’s Head-Shaving Support Group appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.

As we entered the event, we saw tents for shoes, groceries, haircuts, job assistance, healthcare and family photos. We took a few minutes to walk through these tents and were moved to tears as we saw the joy on a child’s face as they received a new pair of shoes, and the relief of parents who received groceries for their family.

At our tent, pink and white striped so that it cast a pink glow on everyone inside, we welcomed women with an overview of the resources available inside the tent, calendars with educational information and pink bags so they could easily carry the information they would be collecting that day. 

Parkland Hospital, one of our partners, brought their mammovan and were able to perform 40 mammograms for women who could not afford them and made mammogram appointments for many others. One of the Parkland nurses held demonstrations for how to perform a breast self-exam, stressing the importance of this as a way to detect any abnormalities early.

Natasha stopped by our tent and told us that she wanted to come by because of a friend that had breast cancer. Her friend had been too scared to get a mammogram because she didn’t know what to expect, despite finding a lump in her breast. Her friend had recently passed away.

Natasha got her first mammogram that day at the Parkland Hospital mammovan. Her advice to women: “Don’t wait. Don’t wait another day, don’t wait another minute. Get screened.”

The post Bringing Help To Women in Dallas with Convoy of Hope appeared first on National Breast Cancer Foundation.