Back in Stride Again.

Alright y’all, it’s that time of year again—Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Now, before you go thinking this is just another “pink” post, let me stop you right there. This month is more than a color or a ribbon; it’s about honoring the real-life warriors who fight, survive, and sometimes leave us far too soon because of this disease. For me, this month is personal. It’s about my journey, my sister Keesha’s journey, and the countless others who’ve faced the words no one wants to hear: "Those are cancer cells."

I don’t need to sugarcoat it—breast cancer comes in like a thief in the night, uninvited and completely unwanted. But you know what? We don’t have to lay down and take it. We fight. And that’s exactly what Keesha did, with humor, resilience, and a whole lot of love.

For the Fighters and Survivors

Breast cancer is tough, but you know who’s tougher? The survivors. The women and men who stare down this diagnosis and say, “Not today.” To everyone still in the fight, know that we see you. We’re rooting for you. And to those who’ve survived and come out on the other side—thank you for showing us all that there’s hope, even on the darkest days.

Keesha was one of those people who never stopped hoping, never stopped fighting, and always found a way to sprinkle a little humor into even the hardest moments. She didn’t let cancer have the last word—she kept telling her story, sharing her journey, and building a community around The Breast Factor blog. She created it because she didn’t see anyone fighting breast cancer the way she wanted to: unapologetically and with the goal to inspire others. She wanted to be the role model that so many women needed, especially for the ones who were told, “You’re too young,” or “It’s probably nothing.”

A Life of Connection and Love

If you ever had the pleasure of knowing Keesha, you know she was the glue. Seriously, she could get everyone together like nobody else. Family reunions, holiday gatherings—you name it. Because of her, I attended my first family reunion in years. She had a way of bringing people together and making everyone feel like they were part of something special. It wasn’t just family, though. Keesha had this natural ability to connect with anyone, whether she knew you for five minutes or five years. She brought people into her world and made sure you felt welcome.

Her ability to connect was on full display in her last days working as a salesperson for Gordon Foods. Keesha knew how to build relationships, how to make people feel important. That’s probably why hundreds showed up to honor her at her services—on a weekday, no less. The turnout wasn’t just a testament to the number of people she knew, but to the depth of the connections she made. People loved her because she loved them, and she never missed an opportunity to let them know it.

Honoring Those We've Lost

As much as this month is about raising awareness and celebrating survivors, it’s also about remembering those we’ve lost. I lost Keesha earlier this year, and it’s still hard to wrap my mind around. She was just 36, full of life and dreams that were far from finished. But even in the face of her battle, she showed us how to live. Her strength, her humor, her ability to find joy in the small things—it’s a legacy I’ll carry with me forever.

For every person who has lost someone to breast cancer, my heart is with you. Your loved ones are not forgotten. We remember their smiles, their laughter, their love, and the way they made the world a better place. Keesha’s light shines on through The Breast Factor, her dream of helping other women on their journey to healing. And we’ll keep that dream alive.

Taking Action: The Fight Continues

Look, we all know that breast cancer isn’t going away tomorrow. But that doesn’t mean we stop fighting. Here’s what we can do right now:

1. Get Checked – Early detection is key. If you’re overdue for a mammogram, make the appointment. Trust me, the peace of mind is worth it.

2. Educate Yourself – Learn the signs, the risks, and what you can do to reduce them. Knowledge is power, and in this case, it could save your life.

3. Support the Cause – Whether you donate, volunteer, or simply offer a shoulder to cry on, your support matters. Research, patient care, and survivor support are all crucial, and every bit helps.

4. Support the Fighters – Breast cancer is a hard road, and sometimes people just need to know that you’re there for them. A call, a meal, or even just a text can make all the difference.

   
   

Carrying Keesha's Torch

At the Tasha Brown Foundation, we’re keeping Keesha’s legacy alive by keeping The Breast Factor active. This October, let’s not just wear pink. Let’s be the reason someone feels seen, supported, and encouraged. Let’s honor the survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and keep pushing for a world where breast cancer no longer holds the power it does today.

As Keesha would say, “We are one!” So let’s stand together this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and every month, until the fight is won.

With love,Tasha (and Keesha, always)

To donate to Tasha Brown Foundation, send payments via Zelle to info@tashabrownfoundation.org or via GiveButter or Givelify.