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Standing Strong for Breast Cancer Survivors During Pinktober and Always

Carolina Breast Friends, aka the Pink House, is still standing strong for breast cancer survivors--during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and always. The Pink House continues to offer support, education, and comfort care otherwise in short supply during the pandemic. 

Charlotte, NC -- 9/30/2020 -- The pandemic has affected many aspects of breast cancer care in our community. Delayed treatments, cancelled support services, diminished fundraising activities, and so much more. The phrase, "Breast cancer doesn't stop during Covid," rings true for hundreds in the Carolina's - and the Pink House has refused to stop as well.

"This has been a very challenging and often isolating time for people with breast cancer," said Lynn Erdman, Executive Director at Carolina Breast Friends. "We remain committed to our mission of providing resources and education during any stage of their journey."

At the start of the pandemic, Carolina Breasts Friends began delivering all their sessions virtually, typically 25-30 a month, and reaching even more than ever before. Topics cover overall well-being and include nutrition, self-image, breast health education, and mental support.

"The virtual sessions from the Pink House have been my lifeline," says breast cancer survivor Adrienne. "During the Pandemic they've helped me stay connected."

"Just as important as the programs, are the comfort care necessities and individualized support the Pink House provides," said Atrium Health Nurse Navigator, Lorna Espinal. "It's reassuring to know there's a place to help with the things that we might not be able too."

The Pink House matches survivors through their 1:1 mentoring program who have experienced a similar diagnosis and/or treatment for breast cancer. They also provide prostheses and mastectomy bras, wigs, scarves, mastectomy pillows, inspiration jars and comfort bags at no cost to the survivors. "The requests for these items have become increasingly high during the pandemic, as other organizations who also provide some of the items remain closed," said Lynn Erdman.

"As we meet the increased demand, we also find ourselves in need," said Lynn. "Due to pandemic safety concerns, we decided to forgo one of our largest fundraising events this fall, the Pink Boots Ball." The Pink House is hoping that breast cancer awareness month will inspire people to support their work--this year more than ever. Local Businesses including Clean Juice, Birdsong Brewing, Kendra Scott, J. McLaughlin, Lumen CLT, Charlotte Family Yoga, Elizabeth House Foundation, CycleBar-Matthews and VW Hendrick of Concord are already stepping up to support the cause by holding Breast Cancer Awareness Month fundraisers for the Pink House.

Leslie Verner, Director of Programming and Volunteers shares, "We will continue our mission to honor survivors this month. It just looks a little different this year." In addition to a variety of special virtual programming, the Pink House will be hosting a socially-distanced parking lot party later in the month for survivors to plant herbs and flowers that can be taken home and enjoyed during the cooler months ahead.

Survivors needing assistance can call the Pink House at 704-370-7773.