Author: Lisa Boudreaux, Director of Communications

The Power of Pink in Roanoke: Raising Hope, Unity, and Funds for Virginians Facing Breast Cancer

by Sarah Stephenson, Special Events Manager SWVA The Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation (VBCF) was thrilled to host this year’s Power of Pink Roanoke Luncheon at the beautiful Hotel Roanoke. The event was not only a wonderful opportunity to come together in support of breast cancer awareness and research but also a powerful moment of unity…
Read more

Breast Cancer Diagnostics: Breaking Barriers for Better Care

by Dr. Priti Shah, Director of Breast Imaging for VCU Health & VBCF Board Member Fall is finally in the (cool, crisp) air.  Yellow school busses abound. Against the clear blue sky, leaves are turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. Pumpkin orange is everywhere.  Yet for many, October evokes another color: pink, symbolizing…
Read more

Understanding Disparities in Breast Cancer Treatment: A Focus for Hispanic Heritage Month

by Alma Dominguez, MSW Intern As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, it is essential to highlight not only the vibrant culture and contributions of the Hispanic community but also the health disparities that affect members of the community. A recent report from Breastcancer.org highlights recent research in breast cancer…
Read more

The Hidden Struggles: Why Spouses of Cancer Patients May Need Support

by Alma Dominguez, MSW Intern A recent study from JAMA Oncology has uncovered something deeply troubling that often gets overlooked: the mental health struggles of spouses who care for cancer patients. The research, based on extensive data from Danish national patient databases, shows that these caregivers face much higher risks of suicide attempts and deaths…
Read more

Meet Our Board: Tara Nepper

We are excited to launch a new series titled ‘Meet Our Board,’ where we feature personal insights from our board members. Join us as Tara shares her experiences, motivations, and the impact she aims to make with VBCF.

Funds Now Available for Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnostic Services in Southwest Virginia

We are pleased to announce that funds are now available to provide breast cancer screening and diagnostic services to uninsured and underinsured individuals in Southwest Virginia. VBCF has committed $190,000 for 2023 with partners in Abingdon (Ballad Health), Lynchburg (Centra Health), Roanoke/NRV, and Southside (Carilion Clinic). Thanks to the generosity of our donors, VBCF’s Screening…
Read more

Your Journey Beyond Breast Cancer – Tools for the Road

Guest Blogger: Louise B. Lubin PhD I know you remember the moment you heard, “You have breast cancer.” Those words began a long journey with many possible roadblocks and detours. You will all be at different points on your cancer timeline. Perhaps you have just been diagnosed, are continuing with treatment, or even managing a…
Read more

VBCF Says Goodbye to a Friend – Rita Handley

Like most women diagnosed, Rita Handley had no history of breast cancer in her family when she found out she had it. In January 1997, she was diagnosed with stage II, node-negative breast cancer. In June 2001, she was diagnosed with stage IV bone metastasis. She found VBCF through her Bosom Buddies support group, joining…
Read more

The Financial Toxicity of Cancer: A Problem That Is Not Going Away

By Guest Blogger: Lisa DeFerrari This article was originally published on After 20 Years Cancer Research Blog on February 6, 2021. When I was treated for breast cancer in 1993, and again in 2005, I was fortunate to have good health insurance coverage. Being able to afford my treatment was never an issue. But would…
Read more

WEBINAR RECORDING: Breast Cancer & Heart Health

Are you aware of the link between breast cancer and heart health? There are many shared risk factors between the two conditions, and in some cases, breast cancer treatment can have long-lasting cardiac effects. Dr. Wendy Bottinor from the Pauley Heart Center at VCU Health provides guidance on how to protect heart health during treatment…
Read more