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
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.
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
Arnett, Carbis & Toothman, LLP
I support WVBHI for those who may be struggling with the thought process of being diagnosed with breast cancer. My mother was a survivor and was embarrassed to ask for help or support. Now, I speak for those like her who might not have the courage to speak for themselves.
Eva Mays
WVBHI Member at Large
Flaherty, Sensabaugh & Bonasso, PLLC
West Virginia Breast Health Initiative was there for someone I love when she needed it most. I continue to support WVBHI because they strive to be more than just a non-profit, they become the friend, family, and lifeline to survivors.
Nichole Greene-Jenkins
WVBHI Member at Large
Capitol Market
Working around cancer patients every day, I have seen that the need for assistance is overwhelming. So many of them aren't sure what they are going to do or where to turn for struggles they never imagined they would have. WVBHI helps and supports with so many needs that a patient with cancer should not have to worry about while facing such a great challenge. I am happy and eager to help in any way that I can.
Michael Sword
WVBHI Member at Large
CAMC Cancer Center