Valeda-S Hope

Valeda’s Hope — Empowering Women Through Mammograms, Comfort & Recovery Support

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit inspired by founder Valeda Keys’ own breast cancer journey, bringing early detection, comfort items, and compassionate care directly to women in need.

When Valeda Keys discovered she carried the BRCA gene, she faced the reality of undergoing a double mastectomy before age 40—a path filled with fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. Her personal experience inspired the creation of Valeda’s Hope, a nonprofit rooted in empathy, resilience, and access to care.

Valeda’s efforts extend far beyond medical services.Breast Cancer at a Glance (2025)

National Landscape

• In the U.S., an estimated 316,950 new cases of invasive breast cancer among women are expected in 2025, with an additional 59,080 cases of DCIS (non-invasive). (cancer.org)

• Approximately 42,170 women are projected to die from breast cancer in 2025.

• Overall, breast cancer death rates have declined by 44% since 1989, thanks to advances in early detection and treatment.

Racial Disparities

• Black women face a 38% higher risk of death from breast cancer compared to white women, despite a similar incidence rate.

• Disparities persist due to delayed diagnoses, unequal access to care, and systemic barriers.

Missouri Snapshot

• In Missouri, 2025 projections estimate 6,090 new cases of female breast cancer, leading to 1,020 deaths statewide.

Local Trends

• While current county-level data isn’t yet available, St. Louis County has historically ranked high in both incidence and mortality.

Valeda’s Hope Mobile Mammogram Van

To bridge the gaps in care and equity, Valeda’s Hope partners with Siteman Cancer Center to operate a Mobile Mammogram Van, taking early detection directly into neighborhoods—especially underserved communities.

• Since launch, the program has provided over 1,000 free or low-cost 3D mammograms, visiting trusted venues such as public libraries and community centers.

Education, Outreach & Awareness

Valeda’s Hope goes beyond screenings to educate and empower communities:

• High School Programs: Teaching young women about breast health and early detection.

• Church & Community Events: Partnering with local congregations to raise awareness.

• Educational Panels: Valeda serves on panels with breast cancer doctors to discuss prevention, screening, and survivorship.

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Collaborating with medical experts to demystify breast cancer, reduce fear, and provide actionable guidance.

Beyond Screening: Comfort & Dignity

Valeda’s efforts extend far beyond medical services. Reflecting her own recovery, Valeda delivers recliners and tactile comforts—pajamas, slippers, blankets, and more—to women as they recover or navigate uncertainty. Each comfort item is a message of care, warmth, and the promise that no one faces this journey alone.

Why It Matters:

For many women, the Mobile Mammogram Van brings lifesaving screenings; for others, the comfort items, educational outreach, and personal engagement transform fear into hope. Rooted in Valeda’s lived experience, Valeda’s Hope redefines care as both clinically essential and deeply human.

Valeda's Hope is a 501(c)3 organization, started in 2013, that has been successful in assisting breast cancer patients, but relies on funding from outside sources like yours to provide our valuable services.