"We want to ensure that all women have access to screening, treatment and follow-up care, regardless of their socioeconomic circumstances," said Kathleen Walas, President of the Avon Foundation. "The Avon Foundation funded Survivors' Volunteer program and the Outreach program bring state-of-the-art care and community-based and culturally relevant resources to all populations."

Over the past 10 years, Avon Foundation has funded more than 800 programs dedicated to educating communities across the U.S. about breast cancer and linking them with early detection screening services. Today, $6.5 million in gift support from the Avon Foundation helps 134 programs reach thousands of women with critical breast health services in 50 states.

"Many factors, ranging from fear to lack of a doctor's recommendation, keep women from practicing good breast health," said Lillie Shockney, RN, BS, MAS, Administrative Director of the Johns Hopkins Breast Center and a breast cancer survivor herself. "There is a tremendous need to reach women with information and resources. We are grateful that Avon Foundation shares this mission, and has chosen to support our program."

A national - and local - problem

While Maryland ranks fifth highest for breast cancer mortality among the 50 states, there is good news on the horizon. Breast cancer mortality rates are on the decline, with the largest decreases among young women, both white and African-American. Moreover, the five-year relative survival rate for localized breast cancer has increased from 72 percent in the 1940s to 97 percent today, as the result of earlier diagnosis and treatment.

But success is not won without a fight, as any breast cancer survivor will tell you.

"I have been a breast cancer survivor for seven years," said Faye Hoffmeyer, who originally found a lump in her left breast through self-examination. "Initially, I was nervous and frightened," said Ms. Hoffmeyer, "but I always had a lot of support throughout the process - from my family and the Johns Hopkins Breast Cancer Survivor Volunteer Program."

Shortly after her own experience as a patient, she became a volunteer for the Johns Hopkins Breast Cancer Survivor Volunteer Program. "I think it is reassuring to be able to speak with someone who has had first-hand experience," Ms. Hoffmeyer added. But in April 2003, Ms. Hoffmeyer found herself on the receiving end of the survivor volunteer program. A mammogram revealed a malignant tumor the size of a rice kernel and she had a mastectomy as well as reconstruction. "My recent recovery has been wonderful and the volunteer team has been terrific. When you are given compassion, you are called to be compassionate," she said.

Women helping women

"Many women who have been touched by breast cancer have found that an effective way to cope with their remaining emotional feelings after treatment is to reach out and help other women who become diagnosed after them," said Ms. Shockney.

Survivors contribute through the Johns Hopkins Breast Cancer Survivor Volunteer Program in a variety of ways: as public speakers on breast cancer and the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment; as members of a team of volunteers who provide one-on-one support to newly diagnosed patients for as long as the patient desires; and as breast cancer lobbyists, educating government officials about breast cancer issues.

About the Avon Foundation and Avon Breast Cancer Crusade

The Avon Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity, was founded in 1955 with a mission to improve the lives of women by supporting programs that offer economic opportunity and provide care and research for breast cancer in the U.S. and around the world.

In support of women's health, the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade began in the U.K. in 1992, and has expanded to 50 countries. Funds are raised through a wide variety of special events, product sales, walks, runs, concerts and other marketing initiatives worldwide. The focus is on reaching the medically underserved population, including minorities, the poor, elderly, under- and uninsured, with a mission to fund access to care and finding a cure for breast cancer. Since 1992 the Avon Crusade has returned more than $250 million net to breast cancer research and care organizations worldwide.

About Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center's Breast Cancer Program

The Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center's Breast Cancer Program is a comprehensive, multidisciplinary breast care program, offering a full spectrum of clinical and support services, including screening, diagnosis, treatment. counseling, and laboratory research.