Written by Chris Jones
Since 1991, the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation (VBCF) has been helping women from all walks of life across Virginia. Founded by Phoebe Antrim, Judi Ellis, Patti Goodall, Mary Jo Kahn and Sherry Kohlenberg, who met in an MCV support group, the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation’s mission is summed up into three words—educate, advocate and eradicate. To achieve this, the Foundation aims to find a way to “end breast cancer as a state and national priority,” to educate people in Virginia about breast cancer though programs, publications and events (such as webinars), and to advocate through legislation. According to its website, its current legislative priorities are as follows:
- Support policies for Virginians in all stages of the breast cancer journey – screening, diagnosis, caregiving, treatment, survivorship and end-of-life care
- Support legislation to enable Virginians to receive breast cancer screening and treatment regardless of insurance status or ability to pay
- Promote research initiatives aimed at understanding and eradicating breast cancer
- Support policies aimed at breast cancer risk reduction
- The Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation supports not just women, but men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, caregivers and survivors. On its website, you can find medical, financial and mental health support options.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. If you’re interested in discovering more about the work and mission of the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation, visit vbcf.org/webinars to access these educational offerings:
- October 8 | 4pm: Medical Cannabis with Jenn Michelle Pedini
- October 15 | 4pm: The New American Plate: Eating for Better Health with Alliene Farley, Dietician with VCU Massey Integrative Health Center
- October 22 | 4pm: Sexuality and Breast Cancer with Dr. MeLanie Modrojos, AASECT Certified Sex Therapist at Sexual Health Consultants in Falls Church
- October 29 | 4pm: Treatment Updates in Metastatic Breast Cancer and Patient Resources with Dr. Emily Bellavance of the Virginia Cancer Institute and Casey Young, Outreach Manager for Cancer
Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation
Educate • Advocate • Eradicate
vbcf.org
