Statement from Nancy G. Brinker on Susan G. Komen® Structure & Operations

 

April 24, 2020

Nancy G. Brinker, founder of Susan G. Komen® and The Promise Fund of Florida®, released the following statement in coordination with Susan G. Komen’s announcement of their forthcoming transformation in structure and operations.

“Susan G. Komen was born on my sister’s last wish, at a time when those with a breast cancer diagnosis were shunned. Along with our dedicated affiliates, we have grown the organization to the world’s largest nonprofit source of funding in the fight against breast cancer. We have invested more than $3 billion in research, community health outreach, and advocacy programs in every state across America and more than 60 countries. Yet today the world is changing and so are the models and methods by which we serve others.

“The recent decline in cancer mortality rates makes clear that continued advancements in metastatic research and effectively addressing disparities requires persistent innovation, collaboration and solutions capable of meeting today’s challenges. In this spirit, I join the medical researchers, navigators, patients and their families, in wishing Paula Schneider and the Board improved success with their new model and the work ahead.

“Over the years Susan G. Komen has taken on many forms to countless people, but to me we have always been, first and foremost, a family. And families look out for their own. Our proud history, present focus and future strength are derived from all who walk for loved ones, the bonds forged between patients and caregivers, and the fighters who never, ever give up. They have always been, and will forever remain, my inspiration.

“I still believe today, much like I did 40 years ago, that our efforts must begin and end with investing in community-based programs that put patients first. The fight continues and this mission will endure until our promise is fulfilled and we beat this disease once and for all.”

###