Knoxville TN, October 11, 2025
News Summary
In Knoxville, TN, three breast cancer survivors have launched BELLA, an organization aimed at raising awareness and supporting women affected by breast cancer. Inspired by personal experiences, co-founder Miss Williams emphasizes the importance of early detection and the need for emotional and financial support. BELLA will host a community dance class on October 19th to promote awareness, while local nonprofit Breast Connect engages in fundraising efforts for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Both organizations strive to enhance education and resources for women, particularly those of color, facing breast cancer.
Knoxville, TN – In a growing effort to combat breast cancer and raise awareness, three breast cancer survivors have established an organization called BELLA, which stands for Beautiful Empowered Ladies Living Abundantly. The initiative was inspired by the personal experiences of one of its founders, Miss Williams, who was diagnosed with stage one Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) breast cancer following an important discovery made at home.
In 2020, while resting her hand on her chest, Williams found a lump in her breast. Recognizing the significance of this lump, she promptly scheduled her annual mammogram. At 45 years old, she had previously missed her mammogram due to fear, but she credits early detection for saving her life. Williams underwent four rounds of chemotherapy and a mastectomy, reinforcing the necessity for women, particularly those of color, to remain vigilant regarding breast cancer screenings.
The mortality rate from breast cancer is notably high among Black women and women of color, largely due to a lack of awareness and access to resources. To combat this issue, BELLA aims to educate women about the importance of routine breast cancer screenings and provides both financial and emotional support to those affected by breast cancer. The organization offers companionship to women attending appointments and provides phone support for patients throughout their treatment journeys.
Williams emphasizes that beauty and strength can coexist with a breast cancer diagnosis, advocating for openness and discussion around the topic. BELLA will host a community dance class on October 19th to further promote awareness of their initiatives and support their mission.
In addition to BELLA’s efforts, Breast Connect, another local nonprofit, is actively promoting events throughout October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Activities include a pickleball tournament, concerts, happy hours, and dining opportunities aimed at fundraising for comforting services. The funds raised through these events will go towards care packages for chemotherapy patients and educational materials for wider community awareness.
Breast Connect celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, with momentum building as it continues to support survivors and connect women with a common diagnosis. An online community exists with over 2,500 members, fostering solidarity and resource sharing among current breast cancer patients and survivors. Donations to Breast Connect are welcomed anytime through their website.
Emerging technologies are also enhancing early detection. Linda Meyers, an endocrinologist, discovered her cancer through a mammogram that was analyzed with artificial intelligence (AI). Mosaic Breast Imaging was the first U.S. practice to implement Lunit AI for identifying breast cancer during routine screenings, significantly increasing detection rates. Dr. David Forsberg at Mosaic has been integrating AI technology in his practice since last year, and approximately two-thirds of his patients are now opting for this advanced AI analysis during their screenings.
Tennessee, unfortunately, reports one of the highest breast cancer mortality rates in the U.S., with traditional mammograms missing about 20% of cancers. The use of AI in mammography aims to change this statistic by allowing for earlier and more accurate detection, potentially improving outcomes for patients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is BELLA?
BELLA stands for Beautiful Empowered Ladies Living Abundantly, an organization founded by breast cancer survivors to raise awareness and provide support to affected women.
What is the mission of BELLA?
BELLA’s mission is to educate women about the importance of routine breast cancer screenings and to provide financial and emotional support to those affected by breast cancer.
When is BELLA hosting a community event?
BELLA will hold a community dance class on October 19th to raise awareness about their initiatives.
What is Breast Connect?
Breast Connect is a local nonprofit that promotes events in October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, offering various fundraising opportunities to support survivors and affected women.
What is the role of artificial intelligence in breast cancer detection?
Artificial intelligence is used to assist in analyzing mammograms, allowing for earlier and more accurate detection of breast cancer.
Key Features of BELLA and Breast Connect Initiatives
| Feature | BELLA | Breast Connect |
|---|---|---|
| Founded by Survivors | Yes | Not specified |
| Focus on Education | Yes | Yes |
| Community Events | Dance Class on October 19th | Various events in October |
| Number of Online Members | Not specified | Over 2,500 |
| Use of AI for Detection | No | Yes, through Mosaic Breast Imaging |
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Additional Resources
- WBIR: Buddy Check 10 – Breast Cancer Awareness
- WBIR: Knoxville Foundation Educates Women of Color on Breast Cancer
- WATE: UT Research on AI for Breast Cancer Diagnosis
- WBIR: AI Technology in Breast Cancer Diagnosis
- Wikipedia: Breast Cancer
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
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