In 1997, a group of caring friends at Time-Warner Cable got together to help one of their former co-workers, Kathy Sellers, who had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. Out of that project to help one person came the idea for Caring In Our Lifetime, a non-profit organization that’s dedicated to helping locals diagnosed with breast cancer.  

Since its inception, Caring in Our Lifetime has helped more than 100 men and women. Members of the all-volunteer group call on businesses and individuals in Horry and Georgetown counties, requesting them to dig deep into their pockets to aid with medical expenses. In doing so, these businesses can help those with breast cancer to breathe easier and focus on their recovery instead of mounting medical bills.

Currently serving seven people, Caring In Our Lifetime provides financial assistance for each of their patients. Once a patient applies to the program and is accepted, the organization provides up to $15,000 in aid. They also contact local hospitals to help offset medical bills and expenses.

Sally Peeples, the current president of Caring In Our Lifetime, is dedicated to helping those in need. “It shows you how much need is out there, and it has opened my eyes to how many people are so giving in our community.”
According to The National Breast Cancer Coalition, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death for women in the United States after lung cancer. Approximately 39,970 women and 450 men in the U.S. died from the disease in 2011.

These statistics hit home with Julie Bostian, a board member who was inspired to get involved. "My aha moment occurred when my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had great insurance to pay for medical bills, but my concern was for those who had no insurance. At this time, I realized how vital insurance can be in the lives of others. I decided to garner support from our local community to not only raise money, but also to raise awareness.”  

The group has assisted more than 100 patients, both men and women, and decreased hardships from their treatment. Eligibility is based on financial need and there is an easy application process online. Potential candidates can go to www.caringinourlifetime.com and click on “recipient information” to start the application process.

When Brenda Spadoni-Urquhart, owner of wedding boutique The Little White Dress, opened her doors in 2009, she wanted to get involved with breast cancer charities. “My passion to help others came when my mother survived breast cancer. I wanted to give back to the community and Caring In Our Lifetime was literally a perfect fit for us.”

The Little White Dress will host its annual Couture for the Cure, a bridal fashion show, on Sunday, October 28, at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club. Proceeds will go to Caring In Our Lifetime. A special highlight of the show is models of honor, featuring models who are currently battling breast cancer or who have survived it.

Tanger Outlet is offering a discount card, called a pink card. Between now and October 25, shoppers can purchase the card for $1 and receive a 25 percent discount at many of the Tanger stores.

Caring In Our Lifetime volunteers are welcomed and needed. For more information, go to  www.caringinourlifetime.com.