The following guest post comes from Heather Stempka, two-time breast cancer survivor, Founder and President of Linked By Pink.
Linked By Pink (LBP) is an Erie, PA based nonprofit organization. While we are a resource for all breast cancer patients, we do focus on those diagnosed under the age of 45. We provide emotional and financial assistance to those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.
As a two-time breast cancer survivor and founder of LBP, I know firsthand how a diagnosis can emotionally, physically and financial effect someone’s life. When I was diagnosed in 2007, during my second journey of breast cancer, I realized I wanted to become more involved in the battle against this disease and connect with others.
I began a search in my local area for other younger women. When I found them, we rallied together to raise funds for two local organizations and realized that we had an incredible common bond. We also realized a need in our community.
With the help of Norma Zimmer, co-founder of LBP, we created an organization that gives support to those diagnosed in our community.
We host monthly get togethers in Erie, PA that provide support and education for those who have or have had breast cancer. We are also known to have impromptu meetings for coffee if the need arises. We have women as far as 25 years out to those who are just starting the journey. We have women diagnosed from in-situ to Stage IV.
Our programs include a medical and transportation grant. This grant is for medical expenses that are related to a breast cancer diagnosis. The maximum allowance for a patient is up to $500 per year and $100 for transportation costs. Applicants need to fill out an application and meet specific criteria for grant approval.
We also provide two scholarships to graduating seniors in our community that had an immediate family member diagnosed with breast cancer. The award is a one-time, non-renewable scholarship in the amount of $500.
We also provide baskets to newly diagnosed patients and give out gift certificates to those who are recovering from a breast cancer related surgery to lighten the burden while recovering.
LBP Members
To fund the programs we have available, we host fundraisers throughout the year including an annual bowling tournament in February; a softball tournament in August, and BreastFest: A breast cancer awareness music festival featuring local bands in October. Our biggest fundraiser is our yearly calendar that features breast cancer survivors who share their incredible stories of survival.
