April Director's Chair

BRA Groups

Finding Inspiration in Nature

I live close to Warner Park and go there frequently to walk. That was something that absolutely saved my sanity during lockdown. In many ways, I consider it the birthplace of BRA since so many ideas got kicked around as my friends and I conquered the ups and downs and twists and turns of the trails.


A recent warm day called me back there after a winter of indoor workouts. I saw many trees uprooted and branches strewn about from our recent storms -- but I also noticed the new green leaves sprouting and the many tiny wildflowers beginning to bloom. Being out in nature again soothed my soul. I recognized the analogy of wind-tossed trees amidst new life; how that is often the case in our own lives.


BRA was born from the chaos of the pandemic, and now we are truly beginning to see new growth sprouting all over! We've grown from three locations to 11, and through our virtual program we are currently serving survivors in four different states. We've already moved out of Middle Tennessee and have been asked to start in-person programming in two additional states.


This means we need help! If you have an interest in making a difference in the life of a survivor, we've organized a comprehensive list of volunteer opportunities. Follow the link below to let us know which general area appeals to you, and we'll talk about what fits best. In the meantime, please help us keep this momentum growing and continue spreading the word!


Warmly,

Nancy Brown

BRA Co-founder | Executive Director


Learn more about volunteering
By BRA Groups April 6, 2026
Don’t miss an intimate recorded discussion with Luchi Ajoku, two-time breast cancer survivor and creator of Diary of A Breastie. Luchi shares the highs and lows of her journey, the lessons that kept her fighting, and what she has learned about the power of storytelling. In her own words, Luchi says, “before breast cancer, I was living but after breast cancer, I'm alive.” This is a must-listen for anyone seeking courage, community, and actionable support. Watch the session on April 15 and be encouraged by a fellow survivor who turned her pain into purpose.
By BRA Groups March 23, 2026
Thank you for joining us! Our 2026 session at Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee was an educational and empowering event focused on living well with lymphedema. Topics ranged from diagnosis through ongoing management, and provided helpful resources, practical guidance, and supportive connection. Check out some pictures from the great session!
By BRA Groups March 16, 2026
March is Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Our latest BRA Banter features one of our very own, Sharon Butler of Murfreesboro, as she shares her experience with a Triple Negative diagnosis and her journey into survivorship. With honesty and strength, Sharon reflects on how BRA’s program components supported her through treatment and helped her step into this next chapter with confidence and community. Her words say it best: “You might have cancer, but cancer does NOT have you.” This recorded conversation is personal, powerful, and rooted in hope. Watch, listen, and be encouraged by a fellow survivor who reminds us all what resilience truly looks like.
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