Houston, TX – “Thank You for Being a Friend” is the message from The Rose this October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. What does it mean to be a true friend—to yourself and others- in the fight against breast cancer? It means being good to yourself and reminding friends and family that they need to do the same.
Through this campaign, The Rose expresses gratitude to:
- Their patients for being a friend to their bodies and scheduling their mammogram;
- To survivors for reminding their friends and family about the importance of screening mammograms; and
- To donors for their continued support in the fight against breast cancer.
Every day throughout October, The Rose will share powerful patient stories that inspire and encourage us through their podcast, Let’s Talk About Your Breasts. They will also be featuring episodes in Spanish.
An example of the importance of being a friend to your body is the story of breast cancer survivor Ana Henriquez. A wife, mother, and real estate agent, Ana was just 38 years old when an afternoon of yard work changed her life forever. While unloading a bag of mulch, Ana accidentally hit her breast, sparking pain that led her to discover a lump. At first, cancer didn’t cross her mind, but within days, the realization set in that something was wrong.
Diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age, Ana faced a tough journey, especially during the height of the COVID pandemic. “I was uninsured, scared, and felt very alone because my husband wasn’t even allowed to come with me for treatment,” Ana shared. “But The Rose was there for me. They helped me navigate the insurance process and made sure I got the care I needed. I don’t know what I would have done without them.”
Ana’s story is a testament to the importance of being a friend to your own body—paying attention to changes, taking action, and seeking help early. Her message to other young women is clear: “If I can get breast cancer, anyone can. Be aware and be your own best advocate.”
In addition to sharing stories like Ana’s, businesses across Houston are joining hands with The Rose this Breast Cancer Awareness Month by hosting fundraisers and events. These businesses, including Chick-fil-A, Rudy’s BBQ, Little Woodrow’s, Chicken N Pickle, and more, are stepping up in creative ways to help uninsured women access lifesaving mammograms. Their efforts ensure that uninsured women across Southeast Texas can receive critical care regardless of financial status or their ability to pay. These fundraising events range from raffling off a trip in a private jet to Las Vegas to selling giant pink cinnamon rolls. A complete list of these events can be found here.
“The support from local businesses during October makes a significant difference,” said Dorothy Gibbons, Co-founder and CEO of The Rose. “When businesses partner with us, they’re being a friend to every woman who might not have access to breast health care. Their efforts are truly life-saving.”
The Rose continues to be a pioneer in breast health initiatives such as their Mobile Mammography Program, which operates across 43 counties in Southeast Texas and brings essential screening services to underserved areas, where access to healthcare is limited. For the many women who might otherwise miss their mammogram, these mobile coaches provide a lifeline. In fact, 77% of mobile patients reported that they would not have been screened if The Rose had not brought care to their community.
In 2023, The Rose diagnosed 372 women with breast cancer, highlighting the critical role early detection plays in saving lives. So this October, be a friend to yourself and schedule your annual mammogram!
To schedule a media interview with any member of The Rose, please contact Ivis Batista at 978-885-7306 or email [email protected]. For more information, or to donate or volunteer, please visit www.therose.org.
About The Rose
Since 1986, The Rose has provided a full range of breast health services to more than one million patients. Its mission is to save lives through quality breast health services, advocacy and access to care for all. As one of 12 ACR Designated Comprehensive Breast Imaging Centers in Houston, The Rose is led by Fellowship trained physicians and its nationally recognized Patient Navigation Program ensures access to treatment and a continuum of care for all women. As a major part of Southeast Texas’ Healthcare Safety Net, The Rose is a strong advocate for access to care. Annually, The Rose provides direct medical services to 40,000 insured and uninsured patients. Two Houston-based comprehensive Diagnostic Centers and a fleet of Mobile Mammography Coaches provide services to women throughout 45 counties in Southeast Texas.
