News

Mission Moment | Rhonda

"I am encouraged by how CBF goes above and beyond for Survivors to help make this journey as easy as possible. Being at all the different events, classes, and support groups, in the company of other Survivors that can relate, is very beneficial."

Rhonda is a three-time, 18-year breast cancer Survivor/Thriver. She was initially diagnosed in 2004, and then in 2010 when she underwent a single mastectomy. In 2020 Rhonda was diagnosed ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | Karen & Christian

"It means a lot to know that there is a local organization vested in the emotional wellness and recovery of patients diagnosed with breast cancer."

After being diagnosed with breast cancer in late 2021, Karen and her husband, Christian, wanted to find a way to celebrate her Survivorship and honor all Survivors of breast cancer. Their creativity led them to the idea of a Halloween/Survivorship celebration this past fall."It's been a long ... [..] Read more

---

Welcome Michelle Weber, Director of Development

Please join us in welcoming our new Director of Development

Michelle comes to us with over 25 years of extensive corporate and nonprofit development experience. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Maryland. Her professional expertise includes a strong foundation in charitable fundraising, corporate event organizing, and leadership development.We are excited about the contributions Michelle will make to Carolina Breast Friends and are thrilled to have her on our team. ... [..] Read more

---

Volunteer Spotlight | Amanda

"My grandmother, who was the heart of my family, was a breast cancer Survivor...I volunteer in honor of her and her love."

After losing her grandmother to COVID earlier this year, Amanda desired to give back her time as a way to pay tribute to her memory."I knew I wanted to volunteer my time to support those who are affected by breast cancer," says Amanda.Amanda found CBF by doing research online. She ... [..] Read more

---

Mission Moment | Jessie

"Carolina Breast Friends, along with La Casa Rosada con Latinas, have not only given me the support and encouragement with their care and resources, but they have also allowed me the opportunity to be involved and help bridge any cultural gaps between La Casa and CBF. We can help so many Survivors together."

Eyesenia "Jessie" Arroyave moved from New Jersey to Fort Mill, SC, in 2006 and started working at a reconstructive surgery practice. She ... [..] Read more

---

Volunteer Spotlight | LPL Financial

"Volunteering is a core value for myself and the Women's Employee Resource Group. Having the ability to serve those in need is an invaluable experience," says Heather Smith who is the Engagement Chair of LPL's internal committee.

LPL Financials' Women's Employee Resource Group (ERG) has a long-standing relationship with Carolina Breast Friends--bringing teams of volunteers to The Pink House to take on a variety of projects that benefit the breast ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | Community Fundraisers

Because of your generosity, we are able to make an impact on the breast cancer community.

Every October, we receive requests from people and businesses who want to hold fundraisers in support of our mission. These requests come from a desire to give back in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This year was no exception. We are in awe and sincerely grateful, not only for the generosity behind these events, but also for the ... [..] Read more

---

Mission Moment | Shanice

"In tears, I went to Google and searched for "breast cancer organizations in Charlotte NC." I didn't know what exactly I was looking for, but I knew I needed hope. I needed hope that there could be life after this diagnosis. I needed hope that I could be here for my family."

In this Mission Moment, Breast Cancer Survivor Shanice Jones Cameron shares her story in her own words:It was a brisk winter ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | Independence Harley-Davidson

"When it came time to choose somewhere to donate for breast cancer awareness month I wanted to give to somewhere local, somewhere that operates on donations."

When Independence Harley-Davidson was looking for a beneficiary for their breast cancer awareness ride, Krystle Miller, their events coordinator, immediately thought of CBF. She explains, "I used to work at Levine Cancer Institute (LCI) right down the road from CBF, and I passed The Pink House every morning ... [..] Read more

---

Mission Moment | Cara

"I get to socialize, learn, and have fun with women with shared experiences who can relate, validate, and offer reassurance. I am in a much better place physically, emotionally and mentally because of Carolina Breast Friends."

In October 2021, Cara had exploratory breast surgery to determine the cause of slight nipple discharge in her left breast. She had no pain, lumps or other symptoms. Her surgery ended with a lumpectomy and later a diagnosis of ... [..] Read more

---

Volunteer Spotlight | Stuart

"It's a pleasure to work with people who are experiencing their journeys with the support of Carolina Breast Friends."

Stuart was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002. He's a part of the 1% of men who are diagnosed with breast cancer. As a breast cancer Survivor, he wanted to help support others on their breast cancer journey. That's where his business, stuART designs, comes in."I have been designing and making jewelry ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | Jackie Stair

"You could feel the sisterhood in the air. Once done with treatment, I had to help others any way I could."Jackie was diagnosed with breast cancer and completed her chemo in another state. Upon moving to Charlotte, she was introduced to a whole new cancer team. Jackie's nurse navigator directed her to CBF, and according to Jackie, "it felt like a home." Feeling that she wanted to give back to CBF in some ... [..] Read more

---

Volunteer Spotlight | Melanie

"Volunteering for CBF allows me to bring massage therapy to any breast cancer survivor in the area without the cost."As a recent transplant to Charlotte, Melanie wanted to serve the local community. Since her work with mBody Center as a massage therapist is specific to cancer support, her search for an organization to work with quickly led her to CBF. After learning more about our mission and seeing that we offer of the most ... [..] Read more

---

Mission Moment | Chautauqua

"I thank CBF for being in the community for women who have come to this road on their journey of breast cancer, and allowing us to navigate this diagnosis at the various crossroads."Chautauqua "Tee" was born in Kentucky, raised in South Carolina and graduated from Morris College. She is a mother, educator of 24 years, entrepreneur, doula, community activist and now, breast cancer Survivor.During a routine self-breast exam she found a lump ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | Annie

"During treatment, I discovered this quote, and it now hangs in my salon suite, 'And when you get to where you're going, turn around and help her too. For there was a time, not long ago, when she was you.'" As a breast cancer Survivor and a hairstylist, Annie felt inspired to merge both aspects of her life and create The Pink Hair Studio. Beyond doing beautiful color and haircuts, she believes her purpose ... [..] Read more

---

Welcome Lisa Dale, Executive Director

After an extensive search process led by members of the Board, we are pleased to announce that Lisa Dale has been named as Executive Director of Carolina Breast Friends.Lisa has over 30 years of experience in both corporate and non-profit sectors, most recently as the National Director of Development for Cancer for College where she helped secure the highest annual revenue in history in 2021 with over $2.5 million raised. Prior to ... [..] Read more

---

Volunteer Spotlight | Phylicia

"To me, volunteering at CBF feels like I am representing my mother and my grandmother who both are Survivors."Phylicia moved to Charlotte four years ago around the same time her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer for a second time. Atrium Health directed Phylicia and her mother to CBF. Her experience at The Pink House as a co-survivor during her mother's journey moved her to get involved. Phylicia, who is a realtor ... [..] Read more

---

Mission Moment | M-K & Ashley

"CBF was so incredibly warm and accommodating with seeing both my daughter and myself so quickly...we left [The Pink House] armed with a new layer added to our support system!" Mother and daughter, Ashley and Mary-Kathryn (M-K), were diagnosed with breast cancer within days of one another. When Ashley's mammogram came back concerning, her daughter M-K performed a self-breast exam and found a lump. On the same day a ... [..] Read more

---

Through the Eyes of Co-Survivors | Sharica

Sharica was born with a health condition and depends on her sister, Mary, to manage finances, provide transportation, and make big decisions. As adults, Sharica and Mary have always attended appointments together, and Mary sees to it that Sharica has everything she needs. However, Sharica's breast cancer diagnosis this year took Mary's responsibilities, and Sharica's care, to a whole new level.Beyond tending to Sharica's typical daily needs, Mary took on ... [..] Read more

---

Celebrate Lynn Erdman on June 29th

It is with both sadness and gratitude that we announce that Lynn Erdman's last day with Carolina Breast Friends will be Friday, July 1. Please join us at The Pink House on Wednesday, June 29, for a Farewell Drop-in Celebration to thank Lynn for her service to our organization. All are welcome and encouraged to stop by anytime from 10 a.m. 5 p.m. Light refreshments will be served throughout the day. ... [..] Read more

---

Volunteer Spotlight | Sara

"My first encounter with Carolina Breast Friends showed me that I found my spot! I loved the vibe and the spirit that you feel from the women at The Pink House." Sara first heard of CBF from a friend. She has had dear aunts and girlfriends who have been impacted with breast cancer and have fought the fight, and she wanted to give back in honor of them. "I want them to know that they ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | Wiggin Out for CBF Big Wigs

For their mothers, sisters, friends, and even themselves, these eight donors are Wiggin Out for Carolina Breast Friends to fundraise and bring awareness to CBF during the month of June. All have made a commitment to wear a pink wig for 30 days to support our mission of caring for the breast cancer community. Each Big Wig has a goal to raise $5,000, and 100% of the proceeds will help fund the programs, services ... [..] Read more

---

Mission Moment | Imogene

"Sitting with other Survivors gave me encouragement I had no idea was possible." Having a mother and sister who had been diagnosed with breast cancer years ago, Imogene was aware of the increased chances of her own diagnosis. When she found a lump herself, she moved swiftly, was diagnosed in November 2021, and had a double mastectomy the following month. Imogene grew up in Charlotte, so she was familiar with the area where the Pink ... [..] Read more

---

Through the Eyes of Co-Survivors | Wren

Danny and Wren had been sweethearts since college, so when he proposed to her, it felt meant to be. Then, six months later Wren was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. She was just 29 years old. "When we got the call, we were blindsided. Just having the shock of that," says Danny. The journey Wren and Danny were about to begin was nothing like the one they had planned, and their wedding had to ... [..] Read more

---

Volunteer Spotlight | Elizabeth

"As a breast cancer Survivor myself, I know how a little encouragement can make a big difference." For over 20 years, Elizabeth, has been paper crafting. Known as The Crafty Cricket, she takes orders for custom cards and invitations. Every few months, she brings in a collection of handmade encouragement cards to The Pink House for our use in comfort bags and other Survivor & Thriver outreach activities.As someone who was on the receiving ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | The Artisan's Palate

"As a business owner, it is important to me that we give back to the community..."Christa Csoka is the head chef and owner of The Artisan's Palate, a restaurant, cocktail and wine bar, and art gallery in NoDa. On one Saturday afternoon each month, she turns The Artisan's Palate dining room into a performance stage to host a Charity Drag Brunch. Christa then takes all ticket proceeds from the event and donates ... [..] Read more

---

Mission Moment | Dena

"To hear others share their breast cancer journey and number of years as a Survivor, gave me hope. I knew I had to sign up to be a Mentor."More often than not, the Survivors & Thrivers that walk through our doors at CBF for the first time are newly diagnosed with breast cancer. Dena is an exception. Diagnosed with Stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in September 2015, she was a recipient of a comfort ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | Pineville Fire Department

In a show of solidarity for one of their member's wives who is fighting breast cancer, the Pineville Fire Department (PFD) created T-shirts last fall to raise awareness for Breast Cancer Awareness month. PFD members Nick Campagna and Brantley Gray teamed up for the effort to benefit CBF. According to the Pineville firefighters, "It is our goal to not only serve our community during emergency incidents, but to support our community. We wanted ... [..] Read more

---

Komen & UNC-Lineberger Cancer Center Seeks Participants for Breast Cancer Care Study

The UNC-Lineberger Cancer Center is conducting a study on Breast Cancer Care in North Carolina and is looking for seeking study participants who have been diagnosed with breast cancer in the last 15 years. Below is a message from Komen's Manager of Community Health: Hello! On behalf of the UNC-Lineberger Cancer Center and the Susan G. Komen Foundation, I am emailing you to invite you to partner with us for a research ... [..] Read more

---

Volunteer Spotlight | Connie

Connie Lewis, affectionally known as Ms. Connie, has been an amazing volunteer since she was diagnosed five years ago and was asked by her Survivor friend, Constance Coleman, to volunteer at the Pink in the Rink hockey fundraiser at Bojangles Coliseum. "People were talking about CBF and what a great organization it was for the [breast cancer] community. They either knew someone or had received services and couldn't have spoken more positively of the ... [..] Read more

---

Mission Moment | Carmen

Carmen has a family history of cancer. Both her great grandmother and great aunt passed of breast cancer, and her grandmother, now at the age of 101, is a Survivor. Because of this family history, Carmen began annual mammograms at the age of 35. In April of last year, at the age of 50, Carmen had her annual mammogram and received no red flags. Fast forward only four months later and she felt a lump ... [..] Read more

---

Announcing Our New Director of Programs & Volunteers

We are thrilled to introduce you to our new Director of Programs and Volunteers, Carrie Williams.Though new to our staff, breast cancer is nothing new to Carrie. It has been a part of her life since she was 8-years-old when her mother was diagnosed then, she faced losing her 14 months later. To say Carrie is passionate about breast cancer is an understatement, and her personal story upon testing for the BRCA2 ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | Modern Nails & Jolie Boutique Salon

Lauren Tran is the owner of Modern Nails & Jolie Boutique Salon and a newer supporter of CBF. Her involvement began when she was approached by a CBF Board Member who was soliciting sponsors for our Pink Boots on the Lawn event in the fall of 2021."I wanted to give back to CBF because I am a cancer survivor myself and know what it means to have support, especially from women."Her involvement through ... [..] Read more

---

Volunteer Spotlight | Caroline

Caroline's mom was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2020 and was referred to Carolina Breast Friends by her surgeon. Caroline watched as her mom turned to CBF during a difficult time specifically how she benefited from connecting with other Survivors. "I was inspired to find ways I could help contribute to this organization."Caroline, who is a 10th grader at Cuthbertson High School, knew she could make an impact on Survivors, but she ... [..] Read more

---

Mission Moment | Glendolyn

"Those wigs immediately made me feel beautiful." Glendolyn was diagnosed with breast cancer on May 19, 2021 a day she'll never forget because it also happens to be her daughter's birthday. "I was devastated. I could hardly drive home after finding out. I went with tears in my eyes to my daughter's house and gave her the news. She dropped to her knees...I think that hurt me more than the news ... [..] Read more

---

The Woman at the Heart of Our History

March is Women's History Month. What a fitting time to stop and remember Carolina Breast Friends' own history and the woman whose dream began everything we have become: our founder Kristy Adams-Ebel. Diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 32, Kristy quickly recognized that part of her ability to cope with the struggle depended on communing with others on the same journey. She understood the importance of being in a positive setting ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | Anita Goodesign

Stephen and Aundrea Wilson, owners of the embroidery design company Anita Goodesign, got to know Carolina Breast Friends while supporting breast cancer Survivor Katherine Weeks Mulford when she participated in our 2019 Dancing with the Stars of Charlotte for the Pink House fundraising event. That not only kicked off the Wilson's support of our mission, but soon Stephen was learning some kicks of his own as a Star the following year, where he ended ... [..] Read more

---

Mission Moment | Rosa

Rosa is a clinical social worker and handles very serious situations related to children daily. However, her professional work could never have prepared her for the news of her breast cancer diagnosis. When Rosa found a lump in her left breast while nursing, she had every reason to believe it was a clogged milk duct similar to what she had experienced in her right breast several weeks before. After a series of appointments and ultimately ... [..] Read more

---

Survivor Serving Survivors | Margaret

With a triple negative breast cancer diagnosis in 2006 and a stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis in 2019, Margaret has spent her journey seeking joy and inspiration through art. She turned to quilting, slab-built ceramics, jewelry making and anything else that caught her eye. "During treatment I visualize the next step of a current project. Having these projects gives me motivation to enjoy each day." Upon moving to Charlotte in 2019, Margaret looked for ... [..] Read more

---

Survivor Serving Survivors | Ann

After mentoring other Survivors and their loved ones over a period of several months, Ann knew that it was finally time to sit down and put her scribbled notes to paper.

On a number of occasions during mentoring sessions, she was asked if she had suggestions for a Survivor's friends and family. The end result of her collection of notes became an information packet covering the topics of DIEP Flap Reconstructive Surgery and advice ... [..] Read more

---

Donor Spotlight | Hendrick Volkswagen

What started as a simple inquiry of corporate support opportunities in 2020 by Joe Whitley (JW), General Manager at Hendrick Volkswagen of Concord, turned into a month-long fundraising campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness Month that same year and continued in 2021 with:

A VW car (decaled with pink accents, a donation QR code and CBF logos) for use to deliver comfort bags to Survivors and spread awareness in the Charlotte area

A monetary contribution ... [..] Read more

---

Wellness Tip: Beyond Resolutions

Many people use the new year for resolutions about health and wellness, but sometimes striving to meet those resolutions can become a source of stress that is, itself, not good for your heath. If you dissect the term "resolution," it literally means to repeat a solution. It's no wonder so many of us end up making (and breaking) the same resolutions over and over again. But that doesn't mean you can't make ... [..] Read more

---