By Cynthia Lohr, a 17-year partner of the National Breast Cancer Foundation
February 3, 2026
In the hushed halls of the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) this past October, I underwent my annual mammogram. This routine appointment, a cornerstone of proactive health management, held a profound significance for me. I was not merely a patient; I was a daughter, a mother, a business leader, and a storyteller, all roles intertwined with the enduring legacy of my mother and the unwavering mission of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). My journey, marked by personal loss and a deep commitment to advocacy, underscores the vital importance of early detection, community support, and the relentless pursuit of a future free from the scourge of breast cancer.
The Weight of History, the Comfort of Art: A Personal Journey Through Anxiety
The anticipation of a mammogram often carries a heavy burden of anxiety for me, a feeling amplified by a family history of breast cancer. The specter of this disease has loomed large in my life, casting a long shadow since my mother, Carol Waldorf Lohr, succumbed to metastatic breast cancer in 2008. Her passing, a profound and untimely loss, precipitated my own first mammogram shortly thereafter, as my doctor identified an anomaly that necessitated six-month diagnostic follow-ups for a period. This initial scare, coupled with the enduring grief of my mother’s illness, instilled a deep-seated apprehension towards my annual screenings.
However, my recent visit to UCSF offered a transformative experience. As I waited for my appointment, the quiet hallway was transformed into a sanctuary of healing. Adorning the walls were exquisite hand-crafted botanical tiles, each a testament to the resilience and creativity of women who have navigated their own battles with breast cancer. These art pieces, imbued with personal stories and artistic expression, offered a profound sense of comfort, a stark contrast to the anxiety that often precedes such medical procedures.
A Legacy Forged in Loss and Love: From Personal Fear to Public Advocacy
The seeds of my deep engagement with breast cancer advocacy were sown in the crucible of personal tragedy. My mother’s courageous fight against metastatic breast cancer, a battle she ultimately lost in 2008, left an indelible mark on my life. In the wake of her passing, my own health became a more immediate concern, leading to the discovery of an anomaly that required vigilant monitoring. This period of uncertainty, coupled with the raw grief of losing my mother, made annual mammograms a source of significant dread.
It wasn’t until two close friends were diagnosed with breast cancer that a profound shift occurred within me. Witnessing their journeys, I realized the imperative to transcend my own fears. I understood that my role extended beyond personal well-being; I had to become a beacon of inspiration, a living testament to the power of proactive health management and the importance of providing support and hope to others. This realization solidified my commitment to serving as an example, particularly for my two daughters, ensuring they understand the significance of prioritizing their health and the need to advocate for themselves and others.
The "Hall of Healing Tiles" at UCSF served as a poignant reminder of this broader purpose. Each meticulously crafted tile, adorned with delicate botanical motifs, whispered stories of survival, remembrance, and hope. Many included poignant poems or personal reflections, capturing milestones, commemorating loved ones, or simply expressing a moment of profound introspection.
One tile, featuring a vibrant flowering tobacco plant (Nicotiana alata), was accompanied by a quote from the revered Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh: "We must be aware of the real problems of the world… Are you massaging Mother Earth with every step you take?" This simple yet profound message resonated deeply, reminding me of the interconnectedness of all things and the responsibility we have to nurture both our personal well-being and the world around us.
Another tile, depicting a resilient cactus – tough yet blooming – bore these tender words:
"We were women of homes and gardens
Now one is gone
One still digs
And we both are not so far apart."
This verse struck me with visceral force. It echoed the sentiments of countless women who have faced unexpected detours in their life’s journey, who have grappled with loss, and who continue to find strength and connection amidst adversity. The tile could have been created by me, for me, or for any woman who has contemplated a life path different from the one initially envisioned.
As I moved through the hallway, gazing at the art and then out at the serene meditation gardens, I felt a profound sense of connection to the women who had come before me. In that moment, I felt my mother’s presence more deeply than ever. She lives on, not only in my heart and memories but also in the enduring beauty of a cactus bloom, the cool touch of glazed ceramic, and the unwavering commitment I now hold to my own health and to that of my two daughters.
The Unwavering Power of Early Detection: A Call to Action
My experience at UCSF served as a powerful reaffirmation of the invaluable work undertaken by the National Breast Cancer Foundation. From comprehensive breast health education initiatives to vital metastatic breast cancer retreats, NBCF embodies a spirit of exuberant compassion, guided by its unwavering mantra: Helping Women Now. This commitment to immediate and impactful support resonates deeply with my personal mission.
Health, at its core, is a profoundly personal journey. Yet, the power to navigate this journey with confidence and resilience lies significantly in the realm of early detection. As we embark on a new year, I extend a heartfelt nudge to anyone who has yet to schedule their annual mammogram: consider this your loving call to action. The advancements in medical care, the innovative screening technologies, and the robust community support networks that exist today were not available to my mother or to countless women who preceded her. It is a testament to the collective efforts of organizations like NBCF and the dedication of their partners that these vital resources are now accessible to so many.
If my mother could witness the progress we have made, the relentless efforts to eradicate this disease that will, over the course of their lifetimes, affect more than one in eight women and their families, I believe she would be filled with a profound sense of hope and pride. The fight against breast cancer is a battle fought on multiple fronts – through scientific research, accessible healthcare, community support, and personal empowerment.
A Legacy of Giving: The J. Lohr Touching Lives Initiative
The J. Lohr Touching Lives initiative, established by my family to honor the memory of my mother, Carol, stands as a tangible embodiment of this commitment. To date, the Lohr family’s generous contributions have surpassed $1 million, directly supporting women and families navigating the challenges of breast cancer. This philanthropic endeavor provides crucial support and unwavering hope precisely when it is needed most.
Through the Touching Lives initiative, we have proudly funded over 8,000 mammograms and diagnostic screenings, ensuring that critical early detection services are accessible. Furthermore, our support has extended to over 500,000 navigation and support services for underserved women across the nation, empowering them with the information and assistance they need. We have also been instrumental in piloting the NBCF HOPE Kit program, which has distributed over 100,000 kits to women undergoing treatment, offering comfort and essential supplies during their most vulnerable moments.
These impactful efforts, deeply rooted in my mother’s nurturing spirit and her unwavering belief in the power of compassion, have cultivated a legacy of early detection, dignity, and profound care.
Conclusion: Embracing Hope and Taking Action
The National Breast Cancer Foundation remains a steadfast ally for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Their website serves as a vital resource, offering comprehensive information on breast cancer support groups, free educational materials, and a directory to locate patient navigators in your area.
My journey, marked by personal loss and a deep-seated commitment to advocacy, underscores the critical importance of early detection, robust community support, and the unwavering pursuit of a world where breast cancer is no longer a threat. As a mother, a business leader, and a storyteller, I implore you to prioritize your health. Schedule your mammogram. Embrace the power of early detection. And join us in building a future where hope and healing prevail.
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