The Story Behind In The Pink Foundation
Monique Johnson and Grace Ann Acocella –Pensiero, young Westchester County residents and breast cancer survivors, met during their bi-weekly chemotherapy treatments. They supported each other, shared their experiences, coped with their children’s feelings, and agonized over their ability to be good moms and wives, while feeling the debilitating effects of chemotherapy. Like so many other young women affected by breast cancer, their lives, plans, and dreams were disrupted by this terrifying, and sometimes deadly, disease. They were just beginning their careers, families, and futures, when they were forced into a new reality that brings with it fear, uncertainty, and a loss of innocence and control. Despite their unfortunate admission into the “breast cancer club”, and perhaps because of it, they were very determined to live full and productive lives. They soon realized that few resources were available for young women coping with breast cancer.
With this knowledge, Monique and Grace Ann began volunteering their time to establish more support for young women with breast cancer in Westchester. Their time spent volunteering and assessing the needs of young women with breast cancer led them to believe that there is an even greater need for education, social programming, and emotional support services. In order to effectively fill this void, Monique and Grace Ann established In The Pink Foundation, a not- for-profit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in
the lives of young women with breast cancer.
In The Pink Foundation, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization dedicated
to providing emotional, social and educational programming and
increasing public awareness about the special needs and issues
facing young women with breast cancer.
A letter from Monique Johnson
We know what it is like to be faced with the devastating news “you have breast cancer” and
to feel like your whole world has been turned
upside down. We also know what it is like to undergo the challenges associated with the
surgeries and the treatments that are needed to eliminate the cancer. Lastly, we know what it is
like to be in remission and to have to rebuild
your life again.
You are not alone. We know that breast cancer
creates needs that you’ve never had to face before and that is why we are committed to sharing our story and committed to helping other women share theirs.Women facing breast cancer often find that some of the most helpful
information and support comes from others who have faced the same feelings, issues, and
challenges as they have.
Young women affected by breast cancer often
feel alone, and that is why we have founded a place where women can come together through programs and events and feel a strong sense
of connection and community like
no other organization.
We encourage you to examine all of the
wonderful programs, services, and events that we are offering women just like you who are newly diagnosed, undergoing treatments, having surgeries, or those who are in post treatment
or in remission.
Please feel free to contact In The Pink.
We wish you the best along your journey.
Monique Johnson, LCSW
Co-Founder & President
Survivor
In The Pink Foundation, Inc.
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Who’s Who at In The Pink
Monique Johnson, 37
Monique Johnson, mother of a four year old girl and eight week old boy, attended a routine post natal exam. She commented that her breasts felt abnormal which she believed was a side effect of breast feeding. A breast examination was performed and a lump was detected. Following a battery of tests, Monique, a mother just starting to enjoy the birth of her second child, had to face the chilling and life altering news that she had breast cancer. She had a mastectomy, followed by chemotherapy, and herceptin treatment.
Immediately following Monique’s surgery and during her treatments, her need for answers, and quest for support, inspired her to make a commitment to help all young breast cancer patients and their families. She was driven with the same passion and motivation that she carried everyday for 14 years of her career as a social worker, to aid others with their issues and struggles.
Breast cancer left Monique physically and emotionally different. She has become even more determined than ever to take on her goals and reach them. She is extremely committed to making a difference in the cancer community. Monique, now age 37, resides with her husband and two children in Westchester County. She continues to work as a full time social worker for a school district and now runs In The Pink Foundation, Inc. helping young women and their loved ones.
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