Monthly News & Updates

Financial Stress Can Have Negative Emotional & Physical Effects

April is Stress Awareness Month. Ongoing debt or insufficient income can result in feelings of loss of control, anxiety, and depression. It has been linked to poor sleep, which can negatively affect the ability to think clearly and cope with difficult emotional experiences. Stress has been tied to inflammation and more serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke and certain cancers. The average breast cancer treatment will cost between $20,000-100,000. An unexpected cost causing a financial crisis for many. Hope Chest strives to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with breast cancer, such as housing, utilities, transportation, and child care.

Meet Karen Larson, Board Treasurer for Breast Cancer Foundation Board

Karen Larson is the chief finance and administrative officer for the YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. She is responsible for all finance and accounting functions, purchasing, human resources and information technology. Prior to joining the Y, Karen held leadership positions at a number of organizations, including as chief financial officer for the National Arthritis Foundation, chief executive officer for the Upper Midwest Region of the Arthritis Foundation and a number of senior leadership positions for the Star Tribune. Karen holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and a master’s degree in finance from the University of St. Thomas. She has served on the boards of the MS Society-MN, Children’s Museum and the Minneapolis Downtown Council.

Want to Become a Board Member?

We are looking for new members to join the Hope Chest for Breast Cancer Foundation Board. If you are interested in learning more, contact our Executive Director at jflaws@hopechest.com.

It's Still Me Wig Studio's mission is to improve self esteem and preserve a sense of "normality" during difficult times by providing quality hair pieces. Jan Strassburg, owner of It's Still Me, and breast cancer survivor was motivated by her breast cancer journey. "Losing my trademark auburn curls was a difficult part of my journey." she shares.

It's Still Me Wig Studio offers a private studio where women can receive a one-on-one nurturing consultation and find a fashionable wig. A large selection of synthetic and human hair wigs are available as well as styling resources, wig care products, scalp care products and related products, accessories and services. Visit the website or call to schedule an appointment.

Located at 4601 Excelsior Blvd, St. Louis Park, MN

Thank you to everyone who donated during our Spring Matching Gift Challenge. We are excited to announce we raised just over $10,000 for Minnesota breast cancer patients because of your generosity and compassion.

Accepting Nominations for Healthcare Heros

We strive to feature breast health specialists who have positively impacted the care of our patients and their families in our newsletters.



Nominate a breast cancer specialist who has made a positive difference in your breast cancer treatment journey by sending a short testimonial to us at event@hopechest.com.

The Power of Hope

Visit our website to receive assistance, volunteer, make a gift, or learn more about upcoming events.

Do you know someone who would benefit from getting to know Hope Chest? Forward this newsletter to a friend.