Faces of Hope Breast Cancer Survivor of PG County Creates Hope Shoe

In 2011 at age 48, Madeline Long not only dealt with her own breast cancer diagnosis, but her mother and aunt were diagnosed with breast cancer right before her. Her aunt was diagnosed first through an annual mammogram and encouraged Madeline’s mother to get a mammogram. Madeline’s mother was then diagnosed and urged Madeline to get screened again, since Madeline had her annual mammogram earlier that year. So, the stunned trio of women relatives journeyed through their breast cancer treatment simultaneously.

“I was blessed that I was active as an advocate in the breast cancer space before my own diagnosis, so I was able to help my family and friends. As a result of my mom’s diagnosis, I also decided to become a breast cancer navigator. I wanted to create what she didn't have,” says Madeline, who opened her own non-profit to address breast cancer disparities and was interviewed on the Dr. Oz show.

Madeline also decided to volunteer for the American Cancer Society. “The American Cancer Society is a best practice. I use a lot of ACS materials in my support groups and during speaking engagements,” she says. Madeline decided to use her love of shoes to fundraise for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer by designing a fun line of pink leather Hope Shoes in partnership with an international shoe company. Five dollars from the sale of each pair of Hope Shoes goes to support the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer mission. Learn more at: www.mkfinc.org/sisterhood.

“Folks do not think that early detection saves lives, but it does. My message goes beyond that to living a healthier lifestyle. It's hard watching breast cancer numbers increase especially in communities of color, but with organizations like the American Cancer Society, we can make a difference in the lives of so many women and men!” says Madeline, who has also devoted time to advocating for breast cancer health equity in the halls of Congress.

Madeline, her family, and friends are participating in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer in Baltimore on Saturday, October 21, 9am at Camden Yards Sports Complex. See www.makingstrideswalk.org/batlimoremd. To learn more about Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, the largest, most impactful breast cancer network of event in the U.S. in more than 150 communities.