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.
What inspired you to join the VBCF board?
Being a breast cancer survivor is not my main reason for being on the VBCF board. I am deeply invested in making sure that early detection occurs. Fear is such a strong motivator to wait which, we know, can cost someone their life. Because I am a survivor, I can speak to catching a tumor early and how important that is to saving a life. It is scary to hear a cancer diagnosis but what is scarier, to me, is not getting that diagnosis until it’s too late to do anything about it.
Can you share a moment or story that made you passionate about breast cancer advocacy?
I had a dear friend who, thankfully, caught a tumor when she was 36 – no family history, no indication at all that she might have breast cancer. She had the opportunity to get a baseline mammogram and took advantage of it. If she waited until she felt a lump or until she was 40, it would have been too late. That “what-if” chills me. Because there are different opportunities and barriers throughout the state is why I participate in fundraising for VBCF. Individuals who live in parts of the state which do not have easy access to health care, or general health opportunities, pushes me to raise money so that we can make sure that an initial cost doesn’t keep women to miss early detection because of a financial issue. Where you live shouldn’t determine if you live.
What unique perspectives or skills do you bring to the VBCF board?
I have a history of working with the breast cancer community in a volunteer capacity but I also have a history of working with non-profit boards and the importance that boards can provide with access, advice, and advocacy to an organization. Volunteers are so needed to support events in the community in order to be “lamplighters” to what we do and help build awareness, not just of breast cancer, but of what opportunities exist for patients and caregivers, where the needs are, what research is on-going and what can be done to help.
How do you believe VBCF can impact the future of breast cancer advocacy and support?
VBCF has an amazing opportunity as the only breast cancer focused non-profit to serve the entire state of Virginia, not just big cities or small rural towns. It passes all economic and social demographics in order to build a large network of volunteers. We have an opportunity to raise money in any community throughout the state to find ways to off-set the financial obstacles they face in getting the care they specifically need. What works in one location may not work exactly the same way in another so working with volunteers and health care providers in various communities can help us to address specific needs and raise money or awareness to overcome whatever difficulties stand in the way of early detection and life-saving tests.
Our loud voice in the state legislature and with key decision makers brings with it the knowledge of what needs to be changed, fixed, or developed. The advocacy we provide to the people in decision-making position is invaluable to making real change happen.
Personal and Fun Questions
What’s a book that you believe everyone should read?
The Secret Life of Bees. It contains so many thought-provoking morals and the power of women caring for one another.
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
Lucille Ball. I loved her ability to make us laugh, to be silly yet powerful.
What’s your go-to comfort food?
Fried chicken, masked potatoes and peas.
Do you have a hobby or talent that might surprise people?
I’m not really great at anything but I love to read, sew and garden but I don’t do any of it at a highly intellectual level!
If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, which would it be?
Live Killers by Queen. Takes me back to my carefree high school years.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
You don’t have to be perfect, just try your best and be willing to ask for help, say you’re sorry, and forgive yourself for the mistakes you’ll make.
If you were to pick a new skill to learn in a day, what would it be?
Probably would be learning to play an instrument. I’m in awe of people who are musically inclined and I would love be able to do that.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy week?
A margarita and a nice sunset is perfect!
Where would you go if you could teleport anywhere in the world right now?
I would love to tour Scandinavian countries.
What movie can you watch over and over again without ever getting tired of?
Remember the Titans or October Sky.
