Mary Kay was a remarkable mother, sister, aunt, partner and friend who loved deeply and cherished everything and everyone in her life.

She never gave up! Her determination, endless optimism, and grace under fire is the inspiration for our work.

She was a beacon of hope, and like so many, made decisions about her health while juggling parenting, career, and day-to-day life. When facing challenges that could easily get anyone down, she would respond by saying, “Don't worry, I've got this.”

Throughout her six-year battle with cancer, MK always put others first. Her sister wanted to reciprocate some of the love and make her feel special, so she sent cashmere shawls. MK ended up wearing them during her treatments and on days she wasn’t getting treatment as well. 

The shawls were a little bit of unexpected luxury that helped her feel wrapped in our love and support across the miles. It was no surprise the woman who was a life-long giver said, “wouldn’t it be nice if we could give one to everyone.”  After MK passed, JoAnn wanted to make that vision a reality.  

It was her wish to provide gifts to all cancer patients to make them feel special. Inspired by Mary Kay’s life, it is our honor to continue to spread the joy, optimism, and generosity that was central to her life, even before she was diagnosed with cancer.

By giving without expecting anything in return, we improve the lives of newly diagnosed breast cancer patients and their families with gifts of hope, encouragement, and love. Together, our efforts will make an important difference in the lives of the people we serve.