Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Power
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey to founding Pawsitively 4 Pink is deeply rooted in my challenging upbringing. Growing up in a low-income household marked by trauma and instability, I developed an acute sensitivity to people’s behaviors and emotions. My childhood was far from easy, but it also shaped me into the empathetic and resilient person I am today.
Sports played a crucial role in my early life, teaching me invaluable lessons about discipline, teamwork, and selflessness. Through sports, I learned to trust others, work towards a common goal, and realize that not everything revolves around me. These lessons were pivotal in helping me navigate the complexities of my childhood.
Another source of comfort and stability was my dog. Dogs are magical creatures; they teach us loyalty, patience, compassion, and unconditional love. No matter what obstacles I faced, my dog was always there, providing a sense of calm and understanding. This bond with my dog helped me through tough times and inspired a lifelong love for animals.
These experiences guided me toward a career in psychotherapy. Working with diverse populations and addressing various issues honed my understanding of human development and the factors necessary for individuals to flourish. My professional journey was both rewarding and enlightening, giving me the tools to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
A turning point in my life came when my foster mother, Pauline, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Pauline had been a pillar of support for me, and her diagnosis was devastating. She was forced to retire early, which significantly impacted her financial situation. The physical and psychological ramifications of her illness were profound and lasting. Witnessing Pauline’s struggle opened my eyes to a harsh reality: many women, especially those from low-income and underserved communities, faced immense financial burdens when dealing with breast cancer.
Pauline’s battle made me acutely aware of the disparities in support systems available to women with breast cancer. Even though Pauline had been relatively financially stable, treatment costs were overwhelming. This realization sparked a determination in me to make a difference. I began researching existing support systems and found that while many organizations focused on cancer research and awareness, few provided direct financial assistance to patients. The gap was glaring, and I knew I had to do something about it.
In 2018, fueled by my admiration for Pauline and a desire to honor her courageous fight, I founded Pawsitively 4 Pink. The name was inspired by my adoration for dogs and the unconditional love and support they offer. I wanted the organization to embody the same warmth, compassion, and steadfast support my dog gave me throughout my life.
Starting a nonprofit was challenging. I faced numerous challenges, from securing funding to navigating the complexities of nonprofit management. However, my determination never wavered. I contacted local businesses, organized fundraisers, and rallied volunteers who shared my vision. Slowly but surely, Pawsitively 4 Pink began to grow.
My efforts paid off. The organization started providing grants to cover medical bills, transportation, childcare, and other essential needs for women undergoing breast cancer treatment. Stories of gratitude and hope poured in from recipients who described how Pawsitively 4 Pink had been a lifeline during their darkest times.
One of the most poignant experiences in my journey was walking alongside my lifelong friend, Liz, through her battle with breast cancer. Liz was not just a friend but a sister in spirit who had shared countless memories and dreams with me. I witnessed her courage as she navigated the overwhelming decisions regarding her course of treatment. I saw the extreme side effects of chemo and radiation take their toll on her, and despite her efforts, the chemo made no impact on her dreaded disease. I watched helplessly as the cancer ate away at her physical body, stripping her of the desire to eat or drink and eventually overtaking all aspects of her life. Liz lost her battle with this disease on June 17, 2024, leaving a gaping hole in my heart and soul. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering positivity continue to inspire me every day, and her memory fuels my commitment to ensuring that no woman fights breast cancer alone.
Today, Pawsitively 4 Pink is a testament to my unwavering commitment to supporting women with breast cancer. The organization has helped countless women in Massachusetts, providing financial assistance, a sense of community, and hope. I continue to be driven by the stories of the women I meet, each reinforcing my belief in the importance of compassion and solidarity.
My journey from witnessing the battles of my foster mother Pauline and my lifelong friend Liz with breast cancer to founding a nonprofit that changes lives is a story of profound love, resilience, and the belief in the power of one person to make a significant difference. Through Pawsitively 4 Pink, I honor Pauline, Liz, and all the courageous women facing breast cancer, ensuring that no woman fights this battle alone.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As the founder of Pawsitively 4 Pink, I have faced numerous obstacles and challenges in our mission to provide financial assistance to low-income, underserved women diagnosed with breast cancer in Massachusetts. These challenges have been varied and often interconnected, impacting our organization in significant ways.
COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has been one of the most profound challenges we’ve faced. The pandemic not only affected our ability to host in-person fundraising events, but it also increased the financial strain on the very women we aim to support. Many of our beneficiaries experienced job loss or reduced income, making our assistance even more critical but simultaneously harder to secure. The economic fallout from the pandemic strained our donors as well, leading to a reduction in donations when the need was at its highest.
Economic Challenges
The broader economic environment continues to pose difficulties. Inflation and economic uncertainty have made it harder for people to donate. Our beneficiaries are also feeling the pinch, with increased living costs compounding their financial struggles during treatment. These economic pressures make our mission more vital, but also more challenging as we strive to stretch every dollar further.
Competition for Grants
Securing grants has been an uphill battle, particularly when competing against larger, more established nonprofits. These organizations often have more resources and name recognition, which can make it difficult for a smaller nonprofit like ours to stand out. Despite our impactful work and the critical need we address, we often find ourselves at a disadvantage in the competitive grant application process.
Educating the Public
Another significant challenge is educating the public about the multifaceted nature of breast cancer. While research and medical advancements are crucial, there is more to the story. The faces behind the disease – the women struggling to make ends meet while undergoing treatment – need our support just as much as, if not more than, research initiatives. It can be difficult to shift public perception and funding priorities to recognize the immediate, tangible needs of these women.
Recognizing the Faces Behind the Disease
At Pawsitively 4 Pink, we are committed to recognizing and supporting the women behind the diagnosis. These women are more than just statistics; they are mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends. They have stories, struggles, and dreams. Our challenge is to amplify their voices and stories, to put a human face to the disease, and to remind our community that breast cancer affects every aspect of a person’s life, not just their health.
Despite these challenges, we remain steadfast in our mission. Every day, we strive to make a difference, one woman at a time. The obstacles are significant, but so is our resolve. We are driven by the strength and resilience of the women we serve, and we are determined to continue fighting for them, no matter what challenges come our way.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a psychotherapist, I have spent countless hours listening to and understanding the intricate layers of human emotion, trauma, and resilience. This background has been instrumental in shaping the way I approach my role at Pawsitively 4 Pink, the nonprofit I founded to support low-income, underserved women diagnosed with breast cancer in Massachusetts. The skills and insights I gained from my therapeutic practice have seamlessly translated into the compassionate and empathetic leadership required to run this organization.
Building Trust and Creating a Safe Space
One of the fundamental principles of psychotherapy is creating a safe and trusting environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their deepest fears and vulnerabilities. This principle is at the core of Pawsitively 4 Pink. Women facing a breast cancer diagnosis often experience a whirlwind of emotions—fear, anger, sadness, and uncertainty. By leveraging my therapeutic skills, I can provide a space where these women feel heard and understood without judgment.
Active Listening and Empathy
Active listening is a cornerstone of psychotherapy and is equally critical in my work with Pawsitively 4 Pink. Truly listening to the women we support allows me to understand their unique challenges and needs. Empathy, the ability to put oneself in another’s shoes, is a professional skill and a guiding principle. It enables me to connect deeply with each woman, validating their experiences and offering the genuine compassion they need during such a difficult time.
Addressing Psychological and Emotional Needs
Breast cancer doesn’t just affect the body; it takes a significant toll on the mind and spirit. My background in psychotherapy equips me to address the psychological and emotional aspects of this illness. I can offer emotional support, coping strategies, and therapeutic interventions to help women manage anxiety, depression, and the emotional upheaval that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis. This holistic approach ensures that we are not only supporting their physical health but also their mental well-being.
Supporting Families
Cancer affects not just the individual but the entire family. As a psychotherapist, I understand the dynamics of family systems and the ripple effect that a serious illness can have on every member. At Pawsitively 4 Pink, we extend our support to families, recognizing that they, too, need care and understanding. Whether it’s offering counseling services, providing resources, or simply being a listening ear, we aim to support families as they navigate this challenging journey alongside their loved ones.
Advocacy and Empowerment
My role as a psychotherapist has also taught me the importance of advocacy and empowerment. At Pawsitively 4 Pink, we strive to empower women by providing them the financial assistance they need to access treatment and support services. We advocate for their needs, ensuring they have a voice and are treated with dignity and respect. Empowering women to control their health and lives is at the heart of what we do, and my therapeutic background fuels this mission.
Compassionate Leadership
Running a nonprofit organization requires administrative and managerial skills and a compassionate heart. My experiences as a psychotherapist have instilled in me a deep sense of compassion and a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. This compassionate leadership style permeates every aspect of Pawsitively 4 Pink, from our interactions with the women we support to our collaborations with volunteers, donors, and community partners.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation
Psychotherapy is a field that emphasizes continuous learning and adaptation. Similarly, running a nonprofit requires staying informed about the latest developments in cancer treatment, psychosocial support, and community resources. My dedication to ongoing education ensures that Pawsitively 4 Pink remains responsive and effective in meeting the evolving needs of the women we serve.
In conclusion, my career as a psychotherapist has provided me with invaluable tools to support women with breast cancer through Pawsitively 4 Pink. The ability to build trust, offer empathy, address emotional needs, support families, advocate for our clients, lead with compassion, and continuously learn and adapt are all integral to our mission. It is my honor and privilege to combine my therapeutic expertise with my passion for helping women navigate the challenges of breast cancer, ensuring they receive the holistic support they deserve.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Certainly! Here’s a more detailed version with a solid call to action:
As the founder of Pawsitively 4 Pink, I am passionate about highlighting how our mission fundamentally differs from that of organizations like Susan G. Komen and the Ellie Fund. While these organizations are instrumental in funding breast cancer research and benefit from substantial support from corporations, the government, and other sources, Pawsitively 4 Pink has a unique and equally critical focus.
Our sole reason for existence is to provide immediate financial support to women facing breast cancer, particularly those from low-income and underserved communities. We understand and respect the importance of research in finding a cure. However, it is imperative that we also address the immediate, day-to-day needs of women battling this disease. These women are often forced to choose between their health and necessities.
Imagine choosing between paying for a life-saving treatment or putting food on the table for your family. This is the harsh reality for many women we support. They struggle with affording transportation to their medical appointments, securing child care during treatments, and managing the loss of income from taking days off work. The financial strain can be overwhelming, leading some to delay or forgo essential therapies.
At Pawsitively 4 Pink, we believe every woman has the right to a safe place to live, access to nutritious food, and the security of knowing they can focus on their health without the constant worry of financial instability. Our organization provides the critical support they need, covering expenses such as rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation, ensuring these women can continue fighting with dignity and hope.
But we can’t do it alone. We need your help to make a real difference in these women’s lives. By supporting Pawsitively 4 Pink, you directly impact the lives of women who desperately need our assistance. Your donation goes beyond funding—it provides hope, stability, and the assurance that they are not alone in their battle.
Join us in our mission to support the brave women facing breast cancer. Your generosity can change lives. Please donate today and be a part of a community that stands up for those who need it most.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pawsitively4pink.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pawsitively4pink
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pawsitively4Pink
