GOALS OF SISTERS ON A MISSION

Providing vital information to hundreds of women, their families and friends about the risk factors of breast cancer while promoting healthy lifestyles and the processes of early detection such as mammography, regular doctors visits and breast self exams. If there is a family history of breast cancer, this should be discussed with your doctor and/or family health care provider.

To remove the fear of cancer and its treatment from the minds of African American women, their families and friends. A voice in the community providing support and vital information about the risk factors of breast cancer, promoting healthy lifestyles, with educational awareness programs and the practices and processes of early detection.

Cynthia Church

Founder/CEO/Survivor

2010 Presidential Citizen's Medal Recipient. Diagnosed in 1991 and 1999, a two-time breast cancer survivor, is Founder and CEO.  “My lumps were found through breast self-examinations." After realizing that vital information was not readily available in our communities, at that time, I began a personal mission to enlighten, inform and empower African-American women and their families, caretakers and supporters about breast cancer, the risk factors and the processes and benefits of early detection… Thus the beginning of Sisters on a Mission...  “I stress the importance of asking questions and finding out as much as you can about the disease that has disrupted your life.

Chevala Oliver-Berry

Co-Founder

Chevala Oliver-Berry lost her mother, Zanthia Inez Hollis-Oliver to breast cancer, in October 1988 at the age of 54. “Her medical team failed her.” No one took the time to guide her through breast self-examinations, changes to look for, enforce and/or reinforce the idea. It appeared there were no discussions of early detection, screenings, options in treatment care, procedures, clinical trials, and other avenues that were available to her.

Geri McIntosh

Co-Founder

Geri McIntosh was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1980 and 1985.  "My recovery is due to breast self-examinations,  early diagnosis, support and Gods blessing.  It has often been a scary yet wonderful journey of giving and receiving support and education.  Much of that support came from Sisters On a Mission."

Joyce Denise Rickards

Kent/Sussex County Chapter President

Picture courtesy of Beebe Hospital Tunnell Cancer Center

Joyce D Rickards, a native of Sussex County, Delaware, a 1977 graduate of Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes, Delaware.  In August 2006,  diagnosed with Stage 2 gastric cancer requiring surgery, chemotherapy and radiation until June 2007.  I sold my home and moved back to Delaware so my mother could aid in my care. I have been healed of gastric cancer for 5 years. In December 2007, while having a routine mammogram, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer, underwent a lumpectomy and radiation.  "Being diagnosed with cancer does not mean life is ending; it’s actually a renewal of life! Give God glory, honor, and praise!"

Deirdra Young

Treasurer/Survivor

A 12-year breast cancer survivor currently residing in New Castle Delaware raising her niece and nephew, for the last 5 years.  Deirdra has over 20 years of Healthcare experience in both adult and pediatric administration. She is the Director of Financial Services and Recycle Management at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, PA, since 2003.

Florence Burton

Chaplain

April of 1998, diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in-situ. I had a lumpectomy and went through the process of chemotherapy and radiation treatments for months, with some side effects it wasn't easy, but it was necessary. What a journey, with a supportive husband (50 years of marriage), children and family, I put my trust in God and invited Him to have his way, I cast my cares upon him and prayed. He saved me and eradicated the cancer, and now for his glory I am a living testimony of his goodness and love. Living to Serve.

Board Members