Breast cancer is a universal challenge facing an army of dedicated and well-equipped soldiers. This army of family and friends of breast cancer patients and survivors has recognized the need for better resources, more accessible therapy and wellness centers, and programs that assist each of them as individuals affected by the disease indirectly.
Billions of dollars have been poured into research for a cure with goals to drastically reduce the number of fatal cases within our lifetime. These breast cancer organizations have remarkable stories and unparalleled programs that promote the total health and longevity of women worldwide who are warriors in the battle of breast cancer treatment and recovery.
Side Out Foundation
The Side Out Foundation helps victims of breast cancer to “regain control of their lives,” which plays off the age-old volleyball saying “side-out”- meaning “regain control of the ball.” By developing a program named “Dig Pink,” this organization has raised millions of dollars for breast cancer medical trials at leading institutions.
Some of the funds raised contribute to support services for cancer patients and their families in need of respite.
When coaches and athletes across the country participate in Dig Pink, they are empowered by the teamwork and leadership skills that volleyball teaches while enabling the “development of treatments that are giving stage 4 breast cancer patients more quality time with their families.”
Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation
The Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is committed to offering complimentary services to individuals and families affected by breast cancer in the local communities of Rhode Island, southeastern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut.
The foundation recognizes the emotional turmoil and confusion that can arise following a cancer diagnosis, which can be among the most challenging and mentally taxing situations in an individual’s life. The Gloria Gemma Foundation is dedicated to ensuring access to necessary support and resources.
Whether individuals are newly diagnosed, are survivors, or have lost a loved one to cancer, the foundation’s staff and volunteers provide guidance throughout the cancer journey with compassion and empathy. They maintain a family-oriented environment where hugs are abundant, feelings are respected, and individuals are not judged for their emotions.
The foundation is devoted to aiding individuals in healing their mind, body, and spirit through complimentary holistic programs, education, and support, aiming to improve the quality of life during and after cancer treatment.
United Breast Cancer Foundation
Founded in October 2000, the United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF) is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit originally established as a small grassroots organization dedicated to serving low-income, under-insured, and non-insured women and men in New York State.
The foundation, which is headquartered in Huntington Station, NY, operates regional offices in Arkansas and Maryland. It offers support to women, men, and their families nationwide through eight life-supporting patient and family programs.
Stephanie Mastroianni has been the Executive Director of UBCF since 2001. Her leadership has significantly shaped the organization, largely influenced by her personal connection to breast cancer: her mother, Audrey B. Mastroianni, died from the disease at the age of 42. Under Ms. Mastroianni’s direction, UBCF has flourished into the esteemed organization it is today.
The UBCF remains steadfast in its commitment to honor the memory of Audrey B. Mastroianni. This dedication is reflected in the foundation’s passionate pursuit of its mission, the variety and depth of its programs, and its exceptional client care.
Strength for Life
Exercise is an integral part of the recovery process for patients overcoming any condition. Strength For Life has free equipment and classes for individuals recovering from all forms of cancer.
They even host weekend retreats at no cost for cancer patients to relax and learn while implementing a plan for optimal health and wellness.
Retreat guests are treated to guest speakers and classes in yoga, reiki, zumba, and more more interactive courses. For more regular programs, members can participate in walking classes or nutrition seminars to further their recovery and education.
Support Connection
Support Connection offers an array of services for women with breast or ovarian cancer, completely free of charge. Unique to this organization is their toll-free line that engages women across the country.
The peer counseling provided on the line is staffed by cancer survivors who are well-equipped to answer any questions for women battling these two forms of cancer. They also have local and toll-line support groups and webinars, making their resources highly accessible.
Overall, they aim to provide, “emotional, social, and educational support services to women, their families and friends affected by breast and ovarian cancer.”
Unite For HER
The founder of Unite For HER, Sue Weldon, established this organization only 5 years after her own diagnosis with breast cancer in 2004. She recognized that throughout her treatment and therapy, there was a lack of resources and programs on total wellness, especially readily accessible ones.
With 7 core values including Compassion and Empowerment, Unite For HER provides a plethora of educational material on nutrition, beauty, and wellness for women everywhere. Each year they host numerous fundraisers with one main event called the Pink Invitational for gymnasts to, “compete to help others in need.”
You Can Thrive! Foundation
This New York City based organization takes a holistic approach to long-term care and recovery for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Since day one they have addressed the needs of “those who needed it most and could afford it least.”
The programs they provide are all free or low cost and include acupuncture, meditation, massage therapy, and more. Through 12 years of service to NYC breast cancer patients and survivors, You Can Thrive has upheld and embodied a belief in, “Better outcomes regardless of income.”
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