October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and we’re featuring Kent Island based, Bosom Buddies Charities! Created by Queen Anne’s County resident, Susan Ponchock, Bosom Buddies gives back to our community in BIG ways. The organization serves both Eastern Shore and women throughout Maryland. Susan survived a diagnosis of an aggressive form of Breast Cancer, surgery and stem cell transplant, chemo and radiation. After this, Susan made a vow to “give back” by founding Bosom Buddies. Sadly, Susan passed away earlier this year. Bosom Buddies is honoring Susan by continuing to spread her light through the community.
What is Bosom Buddies?
Claudia Boldyga, Chair, shared how Bosom Buddies gives back to women with breast cancer. They give funds to the medical communities at Luminis Anne Arundel Medical Center and Shore Regional Health. Most importantly, they promote community connections for not only women battling breast cancer and survivors. And it doesn’t stop there because they also give back to the families supporting these women.
This week, they are hosting a small group dinner bringing women together of all stages of breast cancer. Newly diagnosed, women going through treatment, and survivors have the opportunity to share their story if they choose. Claudia described the magic of these connections. Women of all ages and backgrounds connecting. Hearing each others’ stories resonates and inspires creating connections that last for years to come. A 90 year-old cancer survivor shared her battle from years ago. She said the one thing that kept her fighting was that refused to let her mother-in-law to raise her children. That inspired another mother in the group and they became fast friends-and their friendship still remains today.
Each year, Bosom Buddies provides the chance for two Maryland women to go to Leslie’s Week. Leslie’s Week is a vacation away from cancer given to Stage 4 Breast Cancer women. They enjoy a week of fun with their families so they may “make memories that outlast cancer”. Bosom Buddies also gives grants to local organizations like Pink Perspectives who provide mentorship and Breast Cancer Kits. Breast Cancer Kits are care packages filled with practical and useful items for recovery from surgery and other treatments. They include things such as blankets, seatbelt pillows, and button down pajamas.
How Can YOU Help?
Bosom Buddies has numerous upcoming events to support their causes: (click the links to purchase tickets or learn more)
- Swing For a Cure with Bosom Buddies Golf Tournament October 18th
- Crabs for a Cure Crab & Oyster Feast on October 26th
- Bosom Buddies Ball coming February 2022
- Make a General Donation HERE
The Kent Island Community is like no other. It’s amazing to see the difference that Bosom Buddies can make in the lives of these courageous women. Let’s support those who support so many local women.
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