The Step Sisters Mark First Anniversary of Expansion

Release: The Step Sisters

The Step Sisters are celebrating their one-year anniversary this month in providing assistance and support to local breast cancer patients.

For many years, the group raised money for a cure. But in early 2014, the Step Sisters shifted their efforts towards supporting those battling the disease.

The Step Sisters arre working to improve the quality of life for those impacted by breast cancer. Partnering with local hospitals, the group funds needed support services that directly benefit patients in Loudoun County and the surrounding area.

A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Step Sisters hold several fundraising each year. Their largest, the Ribbon Run (5k, 10k and kids fun run), attracts nearly 2,000 participants to the Brambleton community.

This year’s Ribbon Run on April 18 is expected to bring in a record number of participants, including teams running to support a loved one.

More on Patch:

• County Seeks Public Input on Dulles Community Development
• Support Team#2AffectLLS this Spring at the Cycle Scene in Ashburn

Partnering with Inova Loudoun Hospital as well as several local vendors, the Step Sisters provide key support services for patients undergoing treatment. At their founding, the group offered transportation, house cleaning and fresh food delivery to local breast cancer patients. Throughout the year, they added lawn care, snow removal and childcare to the list of services.

“Many members of our group have been in the same situation as these patients,” said Angela Fuentes, president of the Step Sisters and a five-year survivor, in a statement. “We understand the challenges of day-to-day life while being treated for breast cancer. By taking some of these worries away, we hope to help a patient focus on healing.”

The Step Sisters have recently added oncologist Dr. Amy Irwin as a medical adviser. She is a member of the U.S. Oncology Breast Cancer Research Committee and a recognized expert in the fight against the disease.

With a successful year behind them, the Step Sisters plan to continue increasing the number of patients they can assist and the ways in which they can provide assistance. As Vice President Ashley Campolattaro said, “While many organizations are raising funds for a cure, we are helping out until there is one. The feedback we have received has been incredibly positive, and our plans all center around growing this important mission.

For more information about the Step Sisters, please visit www.stepsisters.org.