The very origins of the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation (VBCF) have our grassroots in volunteer work. We couldn’t continue our mission without the many individuals who have dedicated their time to go the extra mile for our community. In celebration of National Volunteer Week 2021, we are honoring a group of our most impactful volunteers. Staff…
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You may have heard about new cancer detection tests working their way through the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval process that are expected to change the way we screen for cancer. There is a bill in front of Congress to shorten the length of time it takes for tests like these to be…
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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…
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The 2021 Virginia General Assembly session was extended by the Governor and concluded this past weekend. Thank you to all who took action on VBCF’s priority legislation during this unusual session! Here is a brief summary of where we landed: Paid Family and Medical Leave Delegate Hala Ayala’s bill (HB 2016) establishing a paid family…
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As more people are starting to get their COVID-19 vaccines (yay!) we are learning more about how different people react to them and there is one benign reaction we wanted to bring to your attention. Some people who receive the COVID-19 vaccine get swelling in their lymph nodes in their underarm, which can also be…
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You may have heard the news that both of the local Boards of Directors for Virginia’s two Susan G. Komen affiliates – Central & Eastern Virginia, based in Richmond, and Blue Ridge, based in Roanoke, have decided to close their doors rather than participate in Komen’s national reorganization to centralize operations from its national office…
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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…
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The Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation supports HB2016 to create a paid family and medical leave program so that Virginia workers do not have to struggle with financial stability when receiving treatment for cancer or other serious illnesses. Without access to paid medical leave, patients are faced with impossible choices during a time when they are…
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The 2021 Virginia General Assembly Session began on Wednesday, January 13th. This year’s “short session” is scheduled to last only 30 days, but recent reports suggest that Governor Northam may extend the session to 45 days. Due to the on-going Covid-19 pandemic, much of the work during the session will be done virtually. Given these…
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Being the main caregiver for a loved one with cancer, expectations for the holidays, or the challenges of Covid are a lot to deal with individually, but we know that many people are dealing with all three right now. We have some suggestions on how to ease your burden during this season, including ways to…
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Are you aware of medical cannabis and its use for breast cancer-related issues? With the recent legislation passed in Virginia decriminalizing medical cannabis and four dispensaries now open in the state, medical cannabis products can serve as a new aid for medical conditions and symptoms. Dr. Terel Newton shares information on medical cannabis and its…
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Did you know that our brains process approximately 60,000 thoughts per day? ifthinking about how much you think is exhausting, you might want to try practicingmindfulness. Anne Chamberlain, a mindfulness instructor and coach, explores theelements of mindfulness and the impact it can have on mental, physical, and emotionalhealth. Anne shares many helpful tips and resources…
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The latest Healthy People national report was recently released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Healthy People identifies public health priorities to help individuals, organizations, and communities across the United States improve health and well-being. Healthy People provides data-driven, measurable public health objectives – and…
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Are you aware of advancements in metastatic breast cancer treatments? Dr. Emily Bellevance shares modern innovations in cancer treatment. Antibody conjugates and new technology have allowed for progressive movement in relation to cancer treatment.Cancer in itself can be an overwhelming experience. Casey Young with CancerLINC provides information about resources available to cancer patients that can…
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Have you faced a medical trauma that has altered your confidence with sexualrelations? Are you aware of sexual dysfunction that can accompany breast cancer? There are many emotions and changes that come along with a breast cancer diagnosis.Dr. MeLanie Modjoros explores the topic of “getting your sexy back” after medicaltraumas, such as breast cancer. For…
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Does an anti-cancer diet need to be all organic? Allie Farley from VCU Massey CancerCenter debunks some common myths and shares information on how to make gradualtransitions in both diet and activity levels in order to improve overall health. Allieprovides additional tips regarding nutrition during and after a cancer diagnosis as well.Check out this video…
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Have you heard of Virginia’s recent passing of medical cannabis laws? Jenn Michelle Pedini with Virginia NORML shares information on medical cannabis products and the process of accessing them in the state of Virginia. As dispensaries are set to open soon in Virginia, access to medical cannabis may be closer than you think. Check out…
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When I travel the state to give presentations about breast health basics, I talk about all of the advancements we have made in the past 30 years in the treatment of breast cancer. About how we now have targeted therapies for some kinds of breast cancer that ideally reduce treatment toxicity and effect on healthy…
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If you are looking for where to go to get a mammogram, or for a breast surgeon or oncologist if you are experiencing an issue, it can be confusing to know where to start. One tried and true method of finding a provider is through your social circle. Talk to your friends who have had…
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The Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to the eradication of breast cancer through education and advocacy.
Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation
2821 Emerywood Parkway
Suite 203
Richmond, VA 23294
800-345-8223 | 804-285-1200
When you make a donation to VBCF, you make a difference for Virginians affected by breast cancer.
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