History

Susan G. Komen fought breast cancer with her heart, body and soul. Throughout her diagnosis, treatments, and endless days in the hospital, she spent her time thinking of ways to make life better for other women battling breast cancer instead of worrying about her own situation. Moved by Susan’s compassion for others and commitment to making a difference, Nancy G. Brinker promised her sister that she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer.

Though Susan lost her battle with the disease, her legacy lives on through the work of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, the organization Nancy started in her honor. Komen for the Cure is the global leader of the breast cancer movement, having invested more than $1 billion since its inception in 1982. Komen’s promise is to save lives and end breast cancer forever by empowering people, ensuring quality care for all and energizing science to find the cures.
Across the country, that promise is upheld by a network of 122 local Affiliate offices. At the heart of each Affiliate is a person or group of people who, like Susan, wanted to make a difference.

Our Promise to the Women of the Greater Roanoke Valley

The Komen Virginia Blue Ridge Affiliate will identify gaps in breast health care, reaching women in 26 cities & counties through breast health education and mammography access. We will provide community grants in Alleghany, Amherst, Bath, Bedford, Bland, Botetourt, Buena Vista City, Campbell, Carroll, Craig, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Grayson, Henry, Lexington City, Lynchburg City, Montgomery, Patrick, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Roanoke, Roanoke City, Rockbridge, Salem City, and Wythe. If you’re interested in becoming an advocate with the Komen Virginia Blue Ridge Affiliate and joining our promise to end breast cancer forever you may volunteer online.