August Director's Chair

BRA Groups

It's back to school time and most kiddos are looking forward to seeing friends and making additional social connections. Parents may also be looking forward to a little more free time and re-connecting more intentionally with grown-up friends. Summer can be a laid-back season full of family and travel, but we still often look forward to a new season.


Isn't that how life works? We move from one season to another -- one is not necessarily better than another, but all are different! Among BRA staff, we'll welcome a new baby next week, send kids back to school and college, try to fill some empty nests, and provide a respite for adult children coming back home for a spell.


I was chatting with a stranger while on vacation last week and learned that she, too, is a breast cancer survivor. After explaining what BRA does, she sadly remarked how much she wished something like this had been available to her. We instantly bonded over "insider" conversation, while the friends I was with looked on in amazement.


Many of you reading this are in a season of survivorship, but we are all part of a tribe like no other. We all know how good that feels, so spread the word to your medical team and anyone you know who could benefit from joining us. We can provide you with flyers to share.


And to see what an impact we make, invite your friends and medical team to the third annual OctoBRAfest, coming up on Sept. 30. This annual fundraiser helps us keep the program available to everyone and to expand to other areas of the country that need us. Like the stranger I met on vacation.


In connection,

Nancy Brown

BRA Co-founder | Executive Director

April 2026 BRA Banter - Luchi Ajoku’s Breast Cancer Story

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.

Living Better with Lymphedema 2026

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!

March 2026 BRA Banter - Sharon’s Triple Negative Story

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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