The Carin’ and Sharin’ Breast Cancer Education and Support Group was organized in 1989, by Gwendolyn Brown, an oncology social worker, to address some of the issues related to the rising mortality rate among socio-economically disadvantaged, inner city, African-American women in the Memphis area.
To provide education, support and an outlet for socialization to women in the inner city of Memphis, Tennessee and the surrounding areas who are living with breast cancer through: Caring and Sharing. It is simply unacceptable for any woman to suffer with this disease alone.
Urban Health Education and Support Services (UHESS) was formed in 2002 as a non-profit organization to provide oversight and resources for the Carin' and Sharin' Breast Cancer Support Group in the form of a board of directors and staff members.
Your information line for group meetings, events, and community resources. Give us a call.
Sessions are held once a month. They include presentations from professionals on a variety of topics relevant to not only breast cancer but everyday life. A meal is served and there is the opportunity to connect with other survivors. Group members experience compassionate support and true Carin' and Sharin'. There are also other special occasions that the group observes, including our annual May Celebration where we recognize survivors and remember those who have transitioned. It is a true time of celebration and an event the group looks forward to each year. Information about presenters and topics are posted to this site.
In addition to group meetings, Carin' and Sharin' is active in the greater Memphis area. Members participate in the Race for the Cure, SistaStrut Breast Cancer Walk, and the Motorcycle Ride by the Blue Knights. Additionally. conducts education sessions held at various locations where information about breast health, community resources and referrals for mammograms are disseminated. The agency participates in health fairs and a wide range of other community events.
A program of limited financial assistance addresses the issues associated with cancer survivorship. UHESS provides assistance for group members while in therapy. Strict screening and guidelines apply and this resource is used only when other services are not available to the patient.
This group has helped people like Shirley, 60-something South Memphis resident, who found herself with little family support and mounting medical costs after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Her husband rejected her and left because she was "less than a woman to him". Abandoned, devastated and depressed, she struggled with the choice between paying her rent and utilities or buying the necessary medicines and other needs in order to stay healthy and live. Because of donors like you, Carin and Sharin is able to step in and provide emotional support and education through the support group and limited financial assistance, including help with rent, utilities and mortgages. We are the only organization in this community to provide this level of service to women who are in treatment for breast cancer. Donors like you cause Shirley's story to have a happy ending. Give by clicking on the word "donate".
Gwendolyn Brown, ACSW, CMSW, has worked as an oncology social worker and patient advocate. She was employed by the Center for Disease Control as a cancer project coordinator for West Tennessee. She has been an assistant professor at the UT School of Social Work, and a social worker at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with a combined experience of over 28 years. Mrs. Brown has authored publications and has been a co-investigator for research efforts at the UT School of Nursing, UT Preventive Medicine and the U of M, at Kansas City. Additionally, she has done research with UT School of Social Work, Nashville, Middle Tennessee State University, and the University of Notre Dame. Gwen has also served as the West Tennessee Coordinator for the state Cancer Coalition, a project of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
She is the founder and CEO of the Urban Health Education and Support Services Foundation a non-profit organization, under which the Carin’ and Sharin’ Breast Cancer Education and Support Group (1989) falls. This is the first breast cancer support group for inner city socioeconomically disadvantaged minority women in Tennessee.
Mrs. Brown has served on many boards, including the American Cancer Society.
She has received numerous awards and recognition for working in under served communities, and was an Outstanding Volunteer nominee during the President Bill Clinton administration.
The Intercultural Cancer Council housed at Baylor College of Medicine selected UHESS Founder Gwendolyn Brown to receive its 2014 Dorothy I. Height Community Advocacy Award. The Award was given on March 26th at its regional meeting in Memphis. The award is given to an outstanding individual who has worked tirelessly with cancer survivors.The Intercultural Cancer Council housed at Baylor College of Medicine selected UHESS Founder Gwendolyn Brown to receive its 2014 Dorothy I. Height Community Advocacy Award. The Award was given on March 26th at its regional meeting in Memphis. The award is given to an outstanding individual who has worked tirelessly with cancer survivors.
December 9, 2017 was declared Gwen Brown Day by the Tennessee legislature in honor and recognition of her work.
Judy Seals-Togbo, BS, LCSW: A 16 plus year breast cancer survivor is the Facilitator. Her duties include but are not limited to answering the HOT PINK LINE as the lead person for all who may be interested in Carin’ and Sharin’. She provides continuous supportive counseling for those who are newly diagnosed, in treatment, have relapsed or may be facing end of life issues. As the “point person”, Judy is responsible for completing mini assessments to determine further needs, including financial and more in-depth counseling support. Judy coordinates outreach services for those members who are ill or homebound with limited resources. She is also instrumental in the day to day operation of all group and outreach activities, including monthly support group sessions. She is a “goodwill” ambassador for the UHESS/Carin’ and Sharin’ mission. Judy is a main character in the Hats Off To Breast Cancer Skit.
