Shades of Inspiration, Inc. was developed by nine breast cancer survivors who meet in a support group in 2005. In January of 2011 the group of women decided to form a support group of women battling cancer and facing the task of understanding and accepting the diagnosis based on their own personal experiences. The groups concern was that African American women and other minorities had no one to talk to and ask questions outside of the incredible support of their family and friends. The ladies felt if there was a support group of women that women could relate to their journey through breast cancer it would be easier and less stressful on the person, their caregivers, family and friends. Also, the stigmatism of cancer and the culture of not talking about cancer the physical and emotional pain of their diagnosis was a hurdle that Shades of Inspiration aspires to overcome within the support group. Since Shades of Inspiration inception in 2011 the group has obtained their status as a 501c3 and became incorporated.

Along with the current members including members that are not breast cancer survivors, the group created a “Young Adult Auxiliary” that are a group of young adult women between the ages of 21 – 30 that was developed to reach out to young people in their age group to convey the importance of breast cancer screening and the importance that all persons be familiar with their family medical history and genetic tendencies. Shades of Inspiration Inc. are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week through their hotline where the group services clients with personal one-one and group support sessions. The members are also available to attend doctor appointments or just to talk and be an emotional support.

The group provides a “Care Package” for each person diagnosed that contacts Shades of Inspiration that includes a journal, a bible, skin care products and resource book and other items. Shades of Inspiration are available for speaking engagements, events and referral sources for financial assistance for diagnosed persons