The ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.
Steve Jobs
"A SISTERHOOD OF SUPPORT"
About
Madeline Long, co-founder of MKFINC is the creator of Sisterhood To
End Breast Cancer Disparity. She is a survivor, advocate and patient
navigator. Madeline’s commitment and dedication to advocacy,
community health and outreach began in 1995 after the passing of a
family member from complications from breast cancer. She has been
a volunteer for Komen for over 20 years before becoming an Advocate
in Science (AIS), a community of dedicated advocates who work to
reduce the burden of breast cancer in communities of color and
underserved communities. Madeline is a Fellow with the National
Leadership Academy For The Public’s Heath (NLAPH), funded by the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). NLAPH is a
national program focused on improving population health by working
with multi-sector leadership teams and training the teams through an
applied, team-based collaborative leadership development model. She
was recently selected as one of the Faces of Hope for the American
Cancer Society – Making Strides Against Breast Cancer for the State
of Maryland.
Sisterhood To End Breast Cancer Disparity (formerly known SOSI)
has reached over 20,000 women since opening the doors in 2014
through community health programs, workshops and medical
screenings. The organization partnered with Kaiser Permanente Mid
Atlantic to provide breast health awareness and support group
services.
Sisterhood To End Breast Cancer Disparity is a disrupter in the breast
cancer space – taking the tools and resources necessary directly into
the most effected neighborhoods by focusing on patient navigation,
genetic testing, clinical trials, diagnostic and screenings to
underserved communities.
Taking Giant Steps!
We are Moving Beyond Awareness to Action by creating aggressive fund-raising campaigns and effective programming to reach those most affected by breast cancer. We are developing partnerships with companies and organizations that are working to reduce breast cancer mortality and improving health outcomes for all. We are excited to share our 2023 HOPE Shoe Campaign of 1 million shoes sold = one million steps forward to help save lives.
Program Focus Areas - Access. Research. Survivorship
Bosom Buddies – Let’s Stay Together
Bosom Buddies – Let’s Stay Together
Bosom Buddies – Let’s Stay Together
Providing funding for patient navigation programs to help secure proper health care and other resources needed to improve patient outcomes.
Sisterhood Fit Club
Bosom Buddies – Let’s Stay Together
Bosom Buddies – Let’s Stay Together
Working with stakeholders to provide wellness tips and the
importance of physical fitness. The Sisterhood Fit Club also plays an important role in motivating young women to examine the psychological effects of lifestyle choices and helping to create a better wellness program.
Body Beautiful
Bosom Buddies – Let’s Stay Together
Body Beautiful
Body Beautiful Program provides mastectomy care for breast cancer survivors helping shed light on the importance of post mastectomy care for survivors. “Having a breast removed leaves a woman with two lives, one before the loss and the one after”. Our Body Beautiful Program is designed to help women in underserved communities gain access to the necessary resources after a mastectomy.
HOPE Campaign
Bosom Buddies – Let’s Stay Together
Body Beautiful
The SHE Warrior shoe line is a labor of love and created to give back. Basically, it's SOLES4SOULS! Our brand is primarily focused on fashion with a purpose. Our initial HOPE shoe line was created to celebrate and remember those that are no longer with us.
American Cancer Society Faces of Hope 2023
In 2011, Madeline Long not only had to deal with her own breast
cancer diagnosis, but her mother and aunt were diagnosed with
breast cancer too. “I wasn't able to be a survivor initially because I
had to support my mom. Because of her, I decided to become a Breast Cancer Navigator. I wanted to create what she didn't have, "says Madeline. "I was blessed that I was doing work in the breast cancer space as an advocate before my own diagnosis, so I was able to help my family and friends." She says that "research, prevention, advocacy, and awesome survivorship programs" give her hope. "After walking the halls of congress for others, I decided to open my own nonprofit to address breast cancer disparities. The American Cancer Society is a best practice. I use a lot of ACS materials in my support groups and during speaking engagements," says Madeline, who has used her love of shoes to create a fundraiser for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Madeline designed a fun, comfortable shoe that comes in pink in partnership with an international shoe company. A portion of shoe sales will help support the lifesaving work of the American Cancer Society to help end breast cancer as we know it for everyone.
“Folks do not think that early detection saves lives, but it does. My message goes beyond that to living a healthier lifestyle. It's hard watching breast cancer numbers increase especially in communities of color, but with organizations like the American Cancer Society, we can make a difference in the lives of so many women and men!” says Madeline.
In Memory of
Cindy "Gone But Not Forgotten (GBNF)"
Cindy "Gone But Not Forgotten (GBNF)"
Cindy "Gone But Not Forgotten (GBNF)"
In loving memory of Lucinda "Cindy" a beloved mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and an extraordinary educator, is the "Cindy" Tribute Sneaker—a graceful fusion of style and “Cindy” Tribute Sneaker—a graceful fusion of style and profound compassion. This sneaker stands as a heartfelt tribute, seamlessly intertwining fashion with the boundless love and empathy that defined Lucinda's remarkable life. Adorned with the iconic pink hue, symbolizing hope and resilience, this sneaker encapsulates the same warmth and unwavering strength that Lucinda shared with all who were fortunate enough to know her.
With each step you take in these shoes, you carry forward her enduring love and her legacy of education and inspiration. Every purchase includes a $5.00 contribution to the fight against breast cancer, supporting critical research, education, and support initiatives.
We invite you to walk alongside us and extend the embrace of these sneakers to Survivors—celebrating their resilience, to Warriors—strengthening them in their brave battles, and In Memory—honoring those we hold in our hearts, Gone but
Never Forgotten!
May “Cindy’s” indomitable spirit continue to inspire and elevate us as we journey together towards a world where breast cancer awareness and equitable access to world-class
treatment flourish. Join us in honoring her legacy. Step into the “Cindy” tribute sneaker and walk with love, hope, grace and strength.
Forever in my heart, Mom!
Love you,
Gina
Bleu Boy
Cindy "Gone But Not Forgotten (GBNF)"
Cindy "Gone But Not Forgotten (GBNF)"
The HOPE line also includes the Bleu Boy Collection for men designed by fellow designer, James Rawls. He is the husband of a breast cancer SHE Warrior, and his grandfather was diagnosed with breast cancer many years ago.
"We're Still Standing and Walking for Those That Can't Walk for Themselves."
Hope Shoe Collection 2023
Funds raised will support preventative care, patient navigation and research in the breast health space. Our goal is to help those that aren't able to support themselves on the journey to recovery and enhance awareness efforts.
Disclaimer
For each Pink Warrior Shoe sold from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, the American Cancer Society® will receive $5.00. American Cancer Sociey does not endorse any service or product.
