Twisted Pink

Dedication to a Brighter Future for Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients

About Twisted Pink

Twisted Pink is a passionate 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to extending the lives of metastatic breast cancer patients by funding metastatic breast cancer research. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, Twisted Pink was founded by Caroline Johnson, who was diagnosed with stage 3 ER+ breast cancer at the age of 39. Her vision was to create an organization that directly supports research into this incurable disease, recognizing the critical gap in funding and awareness for advanced breast cancer.

Our mission is singular and vital: to provide hope and connection to people living with metastatic breast cancer by funding bold breakthroughs in research and awareness of the disease.  We believe that every day gained through research is a precious gift for patients and their families.

The Challenge: Metastatic Breast Cancer

Metastatic breast cancer (MBC), also known as Stage IV breast cancer, is when cancer cells have spread from the breast to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, lungs, or brain. Despite advancements in early detection and treatment, MBC remains largely incurable.

• Approximately 30% of women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer will eventually develop metastatic disease.
• The five-year survival rate for metastatic breast cancer is significantly lower than for early-stage diagnoses.
• While research has extended lives, there is no cure, and patients typically face ongoing treatments to manage the disease.
• Funding for metastatic breast cancer research often lags behind funding for early-stage breast cancer, despite the critical need for breakthroughs in this area.

Patients living with MBC face immense physical and emotional challenges, enduring continuous treatments, managing side effects, and living with the uncertainty of their prognosis. Their daily lives are a testament to their strength and resilience, and they deserve every possible effort to find effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

Twisted Pink's Solution: Funding Cutting-Edge Research

Twisted Pink directly addresses the urgent need for metastatic breast cancer research funding. We are unique in our unwavering focus solely on MBC. Our approach involves:

1. Direct Research Grants: We collaborate with leading research institutions and scientists to identify and fund innovative research projects specifically aimed at understanding, treating, and eventually curing metastatic breast cancer.
2. Strategic Partnerships: We partner with the Conquer Cancer Foundation of ASCO to identify researchers who demonstrate a clear path to impact, ensuring that donor dollars are maximized for the greatest benefit to patients.
3. Awareness and Advocacy: We raise public awareness about the realities of metastatic breast cancer, advocating for increased attention and resources for this critical area of research.
4. Patient-Centric Focus: Our work is driven by the experiences and needs of metastatic breast cancer patients, ensuring that our efforts are always aligned with improving their outcomes.

Our Impact: Turning Hope into Progress

Since its inception, Twisted Pink has made a tangible difference in the landscape of metastatic breast cancer research. Our achievements include:

• Millions of Dollars Raised for Research: We have successfully raised substantial funds, directing them to high-impact research initiatives across the nation.
• Support for Groundbreaking Studies: Our funding has contributed to studies exploring new drug therapies, understanding resistance mechanisms, and developing personalized treatment approaches for MBC.
• Collaboration with Renowned Institutions: We have funded research at prestigious centers, including the James Graham Brown Cancer Center at the University of Louisville, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and others.
• Empowering the MBC Community: Through our advocacy and community engagement, we provide a platform for patients, caregivers, and supporters to connect, share, and contribute to the fight against MBC.

Every dollar contributed to Twisted Pink directly impacts a patient's chance for a longer, higher quality life. We are committed to transparency, ensuring our donors know exactly how their generosity is advancing the cause.