What a year of growth, impact, and hope!
A Message from Lisa Dale Levinson, Executive Director of Carolina Breast Friends
Of all the gifts we receive, perhaps the most meaningful is the trust someone places in us. At Carolina Breast Friends, that trust takes many forms. It’s a Survivor walking through the doors for the first time, unsure of what lies ahead. It’s a donor believing their generosity can change lives. It’s a volunteer giving their time, or a community partner embracing our vision. We never take trust for granted. It’s something we work to earn every single day through compassion, meaningful programs, and the promise that no one should face breast cancer alone.
As 2026 draws to a close, I am filled with gratitude for the extraordinary trust you have placed in Carolina Breast Friends, and for the remarkable things we have accomplished together.
Our Roaring in Pink Gala, A Night of a Thousand Lights, was truly unforgettable. From the beautiful stories of strength and resilience to the breathtaking runway models featuring 21 Survivors and Thrivers, the evening reminded us why our work matters. The generosity and enthusiasm of our 300 guests, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters illuminated the path forward, helping us raise over $375,000, which will allow us to bring hope and healing to even more women and families.
We are also thrilled about the next chapter of our Mobile B&C Pink Boutique! This exciting initiative will take the compassion and personalized services of the Pink House directly into communities where access to support may be limited. It’s a significant step toward ensuring geography is never a barrier to care, comfort, and connection.
Our commitment to expanding our reach is also taking shape in Lake Norman. Through new partnerships, community engagement, and expanded programming, we are building meaningful connections with Survivors and Thrivers closer to home. This growth reflects our vision of making Carolina Breast Friends support more accessible throughout the greater Charlotte region.
As we look toward 2027, we are excited to introduce two meaningful initiatives that reflect our commitment to meeting Survivors and Thrivers where they are on their journey. Healing in Motion, our new physical therapy program, will help women regain strength, mobility, and confidence following breast cancer treatment, honoring the legacy of Anna Emmett. We are equally excited about Camp Lejla, an overnight retreat experience designed specifically for young Survivors. Named in honor of Dr. Lejla Hadzikadic-Gusic, this special program will create opportunities for connection, healing, friendship, and renewal among women navigating breast cancer at a younger age.
We are immensely grateful for our generous donors, dedicated Board of Directors, passionate volunteers, community partners, and exceptional staff: thank you for believing in our mission and trusting us to turn your generosity into meaningful impact. None of these accomplishments would be possible without YOU.
And to our Survivors, Thrivers, and Co-Survivors, thank you. You are the heart and soul of Carolina Breast Friends. Thank you for believing in our mission, trusting our leadership and dedicated team, and embracing the numerous programs and services we so passionately provide. Your willingness to share your journeys, lean on our community, and inspire one another affirms why we do what we do. Your trust in us is both a privilege and a responsibility we never take for granted. You inspire us to listen, innovate, grow, and continually strive to provide the very best support possible.
As we celebrate this season of giving, we may never forget that one of the greatest gifts we can offer is simply being there for one another. Thank you for helping Carolina Breast Friends give that gift every single day. Because of you, hope continues to grow, friendships flourish, and no one has to face breast cancer alone.
With gratitude and warm wishes for a beautiful holiday season,
Lisa Dale Levinson
Executive Director
Carolina Breast Friends
