10/07/15-
Dear Tom,
I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in July 2014. Because of my young age (41) and type of cancer I was given aggressive treatment which consisted of chemotherapy, double mastectomy, complete hysterectomy and radiation. During this process I found that the resources for women of color in my area are limited so I decided to do something about it.
I formed our Curls, Inc., the only non-profit organization of its kind in buffalo that will provide unique services and programs for women of color such as: free ethnic wigs, free wig trimming, support groups, referrals to community resources, free makeovers, events celebrating caregivers and much more.
I started our Curls, Inc. in the midst of chemotherapy last year. I am still in treatment, but fervently working to meet the needs of my sisters who are suffering in silence so we do not have to settle anymore!
It is our goal to apply for our 501c3, but we need the finances to do so. Even though we are struggling to raise funds I and my team are taking money out of our own pockets to show cancer survivors that they are not alone. We have started a new program called, 7 days of sunshine where for 7 days straight every month we will bring a basket to a patient at a local cancer treatment center.
Tom, breast cancer is prevalent in my area and black women are dying at a much higher rate. I want to take the shame out of cancer and bring hope to women that they will battle this disease with dignity! So, if you would be so kind and grant us a Christmas wish to help with the financial cost of applying for our 501c3 and gift cards for our 7 days of sunshine baskets, we can continue to empower emotionally, physically & spiritually.
CHRISTMAS WISH: Cherrise Walker was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
