News Summary
Elizabeth House, a nonprofit in Charlotte, N.C., is on a mission to provide free mammograms to women in need. Founded by Brandy Sims in memory of her mother, the organization addresses the critical shortage of breast health screenings due to funding cuts. Collaborating with local health organizations, Elizabeth House aims to eliminate a backlog of women waiting for mammograms while offering vital follow-up care. Their fundraising events, like the upcoming tea party, help support their cause and expand services to underserved communities.
Charlotte Nonprofit Aims to Increase Access to Mammograms for Women in Need
In the heart of Charlotte, N.C., there’s a growing movement dedicated to ensuring that every woman has access to life-saving mammograms. The local nonprofit, Elizabeth House, founded by a loving daughter, is determined to change the landscape of breast health screenings for underserved communities. The organization’s push is fueled by a personal story of loss and the desire to make a difference.
A Heartfelt Mission Rooted in Loss
The story of Elizabeth House begins with Brandy Sims. After losing her mother, Ruth Elizabeth, to breast cancer in 2008, Brandy was inspired to take action. Ruth was only 48 when she received her diagnosis of stage three breast cancer, and it was a battle that lasted six painful years. For Brandy, it was more than just a personal tragedy; it sparked a quest to help others avoid a similar fate.
With Elizabeth House, Brandy aims to provide lifesaving breast health screenings to women who might otherwise go without this critical service. The mission is especially vital given the current situation: a backlog of over 500 women waiting for mammograms. This unfortunate waiting list has been ongoing since 2020, largely due to cuts in federal public health funding that have impacted clinics associated with Elizabeth House.
Collaborative Efforts to Overcome Challenges
To tackle this challenge head-on, Elizabeth House collaborates with organizations like Novant Health and Invision Diagnostics. Together, they operate mobile breast cancer screenings, bringing the service directly to the communities in need. This innovative approach not only makes access easier but also encourages women to take the crucial step toward their breast health.
Moreover, the nonprofit goes beyond just screenings. If a woman receives an abnormal result, Elizabeth House provides funding for necessary biopsies and follow-up care, ensuring that women aren’t left in the dark after their screenings.
Making a Difference One Woman at a Time
One of the notable partnerships of Elizabeth House is with Dove’s Nest, a division of the Charlotte Rescue Mission that supports women recovering from addiction. Many women assisted by this program find themselves in challenging situations, with some having not had a mammogram in over 25 years. The stories of hope from these women, many of whom are battling or have survived breast cancer, reinforce the pressing need for accessible screenings.
Through her work, Brandy sees a reflection of her mother’s legacy. Making a positive impact in the community has become not just a mission but also a source of therapy, helping her keep Ruth’s memory alive while serving others.
Free Mammograms for Those in Need
A key highlight of Elizabeth House’s efforts is that the mammograms offered through the nonprofit are entirely free of charge. This is a major benefit that can alleviate the worries of many women who might hesitate to seek screenings due to financial constraints.
Join the Cause: Tea Party Fundraiser
To continue their crucial work, the Elizabeth House Foundation is hosting its 3rd Annual Tea Party on April 13, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Eastway Regional Recreation Center. This fundraising event aims to provide even more women with access to mammograms and comprehensive breast health services. By participating in the tea party, community members can lend their support and contribute to a cause that has the potential to change lives.
As the nonprofit seeks to eliminate the backlog and expand its reach, the dedication of those involved shines through. In Charlotte, the fight against breast cancer is not just a statistic; it’s a heartfelt mission that could save countless lives.
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: Charlotte Nonprofit Aims to Increase Access to Mammograms for Women in Need
- WBTV: Project Pink Returns for Free Mammogram Screening
- Spectrum Local News: Breast Density Included in Mammography Reporting
- Essence: DeAngelo Williams Covers Cost of Mammograms
- WBTV: Project Pink Provides Free Mammograms
- Wikipedia: Mammogram
- Google Search: Mammogram Screening Guidelines
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mammogram
- Women’s Health Magazine: Mammogram Screening Guidelines
- ITN Online: Enhancing Mammography Services
