If you regularly read my blog, you know that I am very passionate about a lot of organizations, but there are two in particular that are nearest and dearest to my heart.  One is Susan G. Komen–the organization dedicated to finding a cure for breast cancer. 

The other organization is quite a bit smaller and in the shadow of the biggies but no less important.  It’s called FORCE and their mission is to improve the lives of people affected by hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.  It was started by a wonderful woman who cares deeply about this cause and who works tirelessly to make a difference in our community.  FORCE has helped me, but more importantly I’ve seen the masses of women who have come to challenging crossroads in their lives and have persevered with the support of FORCE.  I’ve sat in local meetings and watched women tearfully talk about how alone they felt before they discovered the support of FORCE. 

FORCE has some important roles in our community.  First and foremost, FORCE has the ability, through local outreach coordinators all over the country, to provide support on an individual and group level to women who are navigating the complex world of hereditary cancer.  In addition to the local support groups, the message boards provide a safe-haven for women to come together.  And the toll-free 1-800 number is a place for people to turn when they don’t know where else to go.

Second, FORCE advocates for the hereditary cancer community–taking on issues such as GINA to make sure our rights are protected and we cannot be discrimated against for our genetic make-up.

And last, FORCE helps raise awareness of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer so that women can learn of a cancer causing genetic mutation, take preventative measures and avoid a cancer diagnosis. 

Have I convinced you enough how much I care about and love this organization?  If I have, please take a few seconds to vote for FORCE in the Chase Community Giving Challenge.  If you have another few seconds to spare, post it on your Facebook page, tweet it and share it with your friends. We have the opportunity to win a grand prize of $250,000, one of 4 runner up prizes of $100,000 or one of 195 $20,000 prizes.  With your help, we can make this a reality.