Our Story

Kristen O'Brien Hardy

December 18, 1998 - Our friend Kristen O'Brien Hardy, lost her life to breast cancer at the age of 31. Those who desired to make memorial contributions on her behalf wanted funds to be available in the local area for others dealing with breast cancer. There was no current vehicle for this kind of memorial.

Established

May, 1999 - The Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks was established. The first contributions was made by BCFO founder, Mary Beth O’Reilly, matched by her surgeon, Joni Scott MD in tribute to all the patients she has treated for breast cancer. Other survivors and friends of Kristen’s made donations in her memory.

Incorporated

The Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks became incorporated February 23, 2000 and received not-for-profit status the following year. A Legacy of Hope Fund was established, which has several venues for donors. Contributions for this fund may be allocated for education, direct services, endowment, memorials or general operational costs.

The Emphasis

Education on a variety of issues is an emphasis for the BCFO because of situations like Kristen’s. She sought medical attention for a lump in her breast a year prior to her diagnosis and was told she was too young for breast cancer. Because of this and other similar situations, it was apparent there is a need to focus education on those under 40 as well as those over 40. Approximately 17% of all women with breast cancer are under 40.

The Slogan

The BCFO slogan “Stop the Silence, Spread the Word, Breast Cancer Affects All Ages" was coined by artist Lavetta Rhinehart who donated all remaining copies of the print “Knowing Silence” to the organization for fundraising.

Education

Those who have survived breast cancer thus far know there are many issues not routinely addressed or supported by other resources. Most education focuses on prevention and early detection, which is of the utmost importance. However, those who do not have an early diagnosis need a different kind of support and assistance, as do those with a recurrence.

A Time To Share

The first educational program in conjunction with SMSU was held, October of 2000. "A Time to Share" featured keynote speaker and breast cancer survivor DeeDee Lennon of the Lawrence Welk Show in Branson. There were seminars, a luncheon with a fashion show of breast cancer survivors as models and a silent auction. The reviews of the event were outstanding. The most frequent comment was “It is hard to believe this is a first time event”. Time to Share is now an annual event. Click here for more information on the Time to Share events.

Hooked On Dance

In August of 1999 “Swingin in The Streets” held at Chesterfield Village was the prelude to our signature fundraising event, “Hooked on Dance”. Many businesses and community members continue to make donations or donate proceeds from fundraising events to help us in our goal of establishing a permanent endowment to support distributions, education and operations. Click here for more information on the Hooked On Dance events.

The Office

The BCFO office was established in the summer of 2001 with the help of several businesses, community donors and grants from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks and the VNA Foundation. To find out how to help support the work of BCFO call 862-3838 or .

The Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks (BCFO) is the only local organization that provides financial assistance for individuals with breast cancer and their families.