Author: Lisa Boudreaux, Director of Communications

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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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WEBINAR RECORDING: An Introduction to Mindfulness

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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WEBINAR RECORDING: Treatment Updates in Metastatic Breast Cancer and Patient Resources

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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WEBINAR RECORDING: Sexuality and Breast Cancer

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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WEBINAR RECORDING: The New American Plate

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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