20 years of progress – and purpose – in fight against breast cancer

Twenty years ago, Teri Munger and I sat down and made a decision that would change our lives – and, we hoped, the lives of many others. As breast cancer survivors, we wanted to turn our personal experience into something bigger. We weren't researchers or doctors, but we understood the power of community. In 2005, we founded the Placer Breast Cancer Foundation with a bold goal: Raise $1.5 million to establish an endowed chair at the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center dedicated to breast cancer research, education and treatment. We believed a regional grassroots effort could make a lasting impact. And it did. Thanks to thousands of volunteer hours, dedicated board members and generous support from across the Placer region, we met that goal in 2014. Today, that endowed chair is helping fund cutting-edge research that's saving lives. But we didn't stop there. We expanded our mission beyond research to include education and outreach. We created the Placer Women's Retreat, launched high school education programs and built partnerships with local organizations to reach more women and families with lifesaving information. Our signature Hot Pink Fun Run in Roseville, scheduled this year on Sept. 28 in downtown Roseville, has become a community tradition, bringing people together to celebrate survivors, honor loved ones and support the work ahead. Alongside our other fundraising events, individual donations and business sponsors, these efforts have allowed us to keep growing – and keep pushing forward. What started as an idea has become a volunteer-powered force for change, with more than 120 active participants working every day to make a difference. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we remain focused on the future. We're working closely with UC Davis to fund new breast cancer research. We're expanding our educational programs throughout the region. And we're staying true to the mission that has guided us from the beginning: to save lives through community-driven action. If you've supported the Foundation, thank you. You've helped make this possible. If you're just learning about us, I hope you'll join us for what's next. There's still work to do – and there's still time to make a difference. Carol Garcia is the co-founder and board chair of the Placer Breast Cancer Foundation. Learn more about PBCF at wethinkpink.org.