October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, promoting education about the disease, and supporting those affected by it. At BBF, we are deeply committed to this cause. In 2021, following her own diagnosis of breast cancer, BBF’s Vice President of Communications and Development Laura Kelly established a dedicated breast cancer fund to support ongoing research and provide assistance to those affected by the disease.  

Thanks to the incredible support from our donors, last year’s fall campaign was a tremendous success. With the funds raised, BBF provided a grant to the nonprofit Keepers of the Flame (KotF) in Georgia. This grant has facilitated a pilot program offering counseling to women undergoing breast cancer treatment and those who have recently completed treatment. 

The Blossoming Beyond Campaign aims to address the emotional and psychological challenges faced by breast cancer patients. The therapy sessions provided through this program are designed to offer a safe space for women to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and develop coping strategies to navigate their journey with breast cancer. 

As of publication, KotF had provided 15 therapy sessions, with six more scheduled within the next month. We are also proud to celebrate with KotF their first participant completing the five-session program.  

In addition, BBF has continued our partnership with RAD-AID to support a women’s health program in Northern India. In collaboration with NIMS University Rajasthan, RAD-AID will launch a women’s mobile health program that will, among other services, provide mammography for breast cancer. This initiative aims to bring critical health services to under-served women, ensuring early detection and better outcomes. 

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, BBF reaffirms our dedication to this critical cause. We encourage everyone to participate in local events, educate themselves and others about the importance of early detection, and support ongoing research efforts. Together, we can make a significant impact in the fight against breast cancer, honoring survivors, remembering those we’ve lost, and working towards a future free of this devastating disease. 

“Seeing the positive impact the Blossoming Beyond program has made on other women has been incredibly rewarding. It’s a reminder that we are not alone in this fight, and together, we can provide the support and strength needed to overcome the challenges of breast cancer.”

Laura Kelly, BBF Vice President of Communications and Development