What We Do
OUR MISSION
West Virginia Breast Health Initiative aims to raise awareness and fund breast cancer programs with an emphasis on increasing breast health education, financially assisting breast cancer screenings, facilitating patient navigation, and providing survivor services. Additionally, to advance breast health equity, WVBHI is committed to eliminating barriers to care for individuals and communities experiencing breast health inequities now and in the future.
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​​VISION STATEMENT
West Virginia Breast Health Initiative’s vision is that all West Virginians have the fair and just opportunity to live a longer healthier life free from breast cancer regardless of how much money they make, the color of their skin, their sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or where they live. We collaborate with organizations within WV such as WVBCCSP and the James "Tiger" Morton Catastrophic Illness Commission, as well WV Rainbow Pride.
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OUR IMPACT TO DATE
​Misty Bennett Seeds of Hope Fund
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$5,000. Harmony House
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$5,000. Rainelle Medical Center
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$5,000. Bonnie’s Bus
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$5,000. WV Health Right
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$15,000. BCA – Cumberland Valley
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$5,000. Boone Memorial Hospital
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$2,500. The Compression Initiative
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$5,000. Bonnie’s Bus
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$5,000. Boone Memorial
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$10,000. Tug River Medical
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Mammograms in 27 counties
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Mammograms – 475 (WVBHI, Bonnie’s Bus first round, Boone Memorial, Harmony House,
Rainelle Medical Center) -
Gas cards – 1000 - averaging between $25, $50. And $250 via WVBHI.
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Survivor Kits –275
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5000 Mammogram self-exam cards in English and Spanish
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Who We Are
The West Virginia Breast Health Initiative was established in 2018 when there was a need for a statewide breast health organization. We received our 501 (c) 3 status in 2019. 100% of the funds raised in West Virginia stays in West Virginia.
Donna DeHart
WVBHI Executive Director
A WORD FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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On average in West Virginia, 6 people will die every week from breast cancer. WVBHI is working diligently to help change that statistic by working with others in our communities to raise awareness about early detection and to help remove some of the social and economic barriers to breast health care. WVBHI firmly believes that all West Virginians have the fair and just opportunity to live a longer healthier life free from breast cancer regardless of how much money they make, the color of their skin, their sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or where they live.
Ruth Kirshbel Jacobs said, “You don’t have to do great things, but the little things you are doing in your sphere of influence can be done with great conviction, great wisdom, great beauty and great love.”
2024 Board of Directors
Bryan Luzader
WVBHI Vice President
Charleston Area Medical Center
I serve because I have lost family and friends to breast cancer and it has left an imprint on my life. As John Diamond once said, cancer is a word, not a sentence. I truly believe this statement to stand true. I am proud to serve on a Board where WE can make a difference for people during uncertain times.
Chris Gosses
Member at Large
Chris Gosses Photography &
WV Rainbow Pride President
I am proud to be part of such a vital community driven local organization. WVBHI cares about the West Virginia community and the hardships that people face in the battle against breast cancer.
Dolores Rose
WVBHI Treasurer
Baker Tilly, US, LLP
I chose to support WVBHI because I want to make a positive impact on our community supporting a cause that is very personal to me. The services provided by WVBHI are a vital resource for our community and I am honored to contribute my time and skills to support their mission.
Pamela Valentine
WVBHI Secretary
Dupont, Retired
I support the West Virginia Breast Health Initiative to raise breast cancer awareness, fight the cause and to do whatever is possible to help as many West Virginians as we can.
Derek Hudson
Member at Large
Executive Director at Bream SHOP - Showers - Healthcare - Outreach Program
Julie Palas
Member at Large
Executive Director at the James "Tiger" Morton Catastrophic Illness Commission
I choose to be on the WVBHI BOD knowing lives are saved and enriched throughout West Virginia via financial, collaborative and peer support. I appreciate the compassionate commitment of its staff, volunteers and partners so as many people as possible can take advantage of WVBHI's free critical services and referral connections.
Patty Rosebourgh
Member at Large, Survivor
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I never anticipated the care and support from people I had never met. WVBHI became a part of my family that responded to many of my physical, mental, and financial needs. I truly felt I had a collective shoulder to help me navigate my journey. It was not enough to say “thank you”, and now as a BOD, I am able to put my gratitude into action for others and welcome them to the family of warriors.”
Melody Racer
Community Liaison
Novartis, Senior Oncology Specialist
I support the WVBHIV to give back to patients with Breast Cancer. One day I may be that patient and need support that WVBHI provides. In addition, I knew WVBHI Co-Founder, Misty Bennet and it fulfills me to know I’m contributing my time towards a cause and organization she helped create. I feel proud to be on the Board as a Community Liaison. I want WVBHIV to thrive and grow. My experience and connections in the Medical Field as a sales consultant will provide support and resources that will contribute to the growth and positive exposure of WVBHI.