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.
A WORD FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
On average in West Virginia, 6 people will die every week from breast cancer. With a family history of breast cancer, having a daughter, and losing 2 of my best friends from breast cancer in 2 years, I am very passionate about the work that WVBHI is doing in our local communities across WV. 100% of the funds raised in West Virginia stays in West Virginia. If you or someone you know needs help, please do not hesitate to call our office. We are here to help!
Donna DeHart
WVBHI Executive Director
2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
WHY DO I SUPPORT WVBHI?
My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in the mid 1970s. Very little was known about breast cancer at this time and it was not talked about. I remember being a young girl and watching her suffer in silence. She didn't want anyone to know. She fought through chemotherapy and cobalt radiation which absolutely burnt her skin. I promised myself at that time when I got older I would do something to help those fighting this terrible disease. Fast forward, my mother is 40+ year survivor and I have the privilege of being part of the West Virginia Breast Health Initiative. I am so honored to work with the best board members, staff, volunteers and dedicated West Virginians to help those diagnosed with breast cancer navigate the red tape, get them needed mammograms, facilitate conversations with other survivors and offer comfort letting them know that they do not fight alone. So please join me in this endeavor and together we can change the face of cancer across our state.
Warmest Regards,
Debbie Townsend
WVBHI President
Stealey Law & Mediation, PLLC
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. WVBHI does so much good. If you are going through breast cancer treatment and in need of transportation assistance, you can call WVBHI! If you are a local medical clinic and in need of some additional monies to help fund mammograms and other detection services, you can call WVBHI! Or, if you simply are having a hard time trying to understand your diagnoses and options, you can call WVBHI! Simply put, the organization serves West Virginia and serves her well. That’s why I belong – to give back to this State that I love.
Dan Snuffer
WVBHI Charitable Giving Chair
Preston & Salango, PLLC
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.
Bryan Luzader
WVBHI Vice President
Charleston Area Medical Center
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.
Pamela Valentine
WVBHI Secretary
Dupont, Retired
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.
Dolores Rose
WVBHI Treasurer
Baker Tilly, US, LLP
Turning my mess into a mission teaming up with WVBHI and applying my efforts to help not only spread awareness, but to support the fighters and survivors. When I was diagnosed in March of 2020 I didn’t know how I would make it through. I was not aware of WVBHI at the time and everything that they do. I had to walk this journey alone. Now, as a Survivor on the BOD, I want nothing more than to support other West Virginians who find themselves in the same situation I was.
Sarah Chapman
WVBHI Member at Large
Teacher, Teays Valley Christian School
I am a proud supporter of WVBHI because they support West Virginians who need assistance during one of the most challenging times of their lives. Serving on the BOD has allowed me to amplify a cause that is near and dear to my heart and raise money for people who are living with breast cancer. I advocate for WVBHI in honor of my loved ones who have lost their battle and for those who are fighting.
Ramsie Monk
WVBHI Member at Large
Women's Health Center of West Virginia