WBCC Involvement
Volunteer
Board Member (2010-16), Secretary (2010-11), Vice President (2012), President (2012-14)
When did you first become a part of the WBCC? What were your reasons for joining the organization?
I joined the organization to “do something” for the fight on breast cancer. I just had a friend pass away at such a young age from the disease and I felt a need to help stop this from happening to other women.
I didn’t know much about the organization, but I saw the big X and it was intriguing. Once I learned what the WBCC stood for and what their mission was, I was in! It didn’t hurt that my first meeting with Dawn Anderson solidified my decision. We connected right from the start.
What do you consider the most significant achievements of the WBCC?
The WBCC’s advocacy has gotten some great legislation passed (such as the oral chemotherapy bill) along with making sure our voices are heard at both a local and national level. Lobbying for those who cannot.
What are the two or three most important contributions you have made to the WBCC?
Each year as both a volunteer and board member I had been on the committee for the Rare Chair Affair, the annual fundraising event for the WBCC. Starting with my first year on the committee, great improvements were made, and money was raised while bringing more awareness to our organization. In addition, I had gone to the national conference for several years to talk with our legislators about the importance of the DOD bill to help fund breast cancer research and the get on board with the bill to end breast cancer
What challenges has the WBCC faced in its history? What challenges do you see the organization facing in the future?
Funds are always tough. As with a lot of non-profit organizations. Fundraising is always a challenge and every organization needs money to keep doing what they are doing. Also, the political climate will also be a tough one to navigate. While the WBCC is bipartisan, we know that most legislation is not.
Who are two or three members of the WBCC who should be recognized as part of the organization’s history? Why are they important?
Dawn Anderson. She is an amazing woman, advocate and friend. Her passion for the organization has really inspired not only me, but all those she has come to meet. She has done so much for the organization since its early years and still advocates for the organization now. She has been the backbone of the organization for so long.
What has your involvement with the WBCC meant to you?
I feel I made a difference by supporting an organization that is making a difference. From volunteering to serving on the board I would like to think I have made an impact in our organization.
Are there any stories you would like to share about the organization and your participation in it?
There are so many! From all the Rare Chair Affairs to Washington DC. I loved my time with the organization. I couldn’t just pick one.
(July 2024)