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OUR STORY

About Sisters Network Inc. Memphis Chapter

A National African American Breast Cancer Survivorship Organization

. Sisters Network Inc. Memphis Chapter emerged out of a pursuit to inspire and support the community, and a desire for actions to speak louder than words. Established in 2000, we’re an organization driven by progressive ideas, bold actions, and a strong foundation of support. Contact us to learn more and get involved.

History of Sisters Network Inc.

Keeping the Spirit of Awareness & Survivorship Alive

Sisters Network® Inc. (SNI), founded in 1994, is a leading voice and only national African American breast cancer survivorship organization in the United States. Sisters Network is governed by an elected Board of Directors and assisted by an appointed medical advisory committee. Membership is 3000, which includes more than 40 affiliate survivor run chapters nationwide. The organization’s purpose is to save lives and provide a broader scope of knowledge that addresses the breast cancer survivorship crisis affecting African American women around the country.

 

As a nationally recognized organization among leading medical establishments and breast cancer physicians, Sisters Network is also recognized as a critical information resource for African American women.

A Dedication to Our Founder

Mrs. Carolyn Whitney

 

In January 2005, Carolyn Whitney organized and founded the Sisters Network Memphis
Chapter, an African American Breast Cancer survivorship organization: After the chapter’s
conception, she hosted an Annual Pink Ribbon Luncheon, Gift for Life Block Walk (GFLBW),
Teens 4 Pink National Summit, First Ladies Prayer Brunch, and Annual Pink Sunday.
The Memphis Chapter is now the largest in the nation.
 

In 2006, Carolyn wrote and published her first book “Wrapped in God’s Blessings,” inspired by
her own life events, emphasizing her personal journey with breast cancer. Through the Sisters
Network and her book, Carolyn’s agenda was to bring awareness to African American women
about breast cancer. In 2007, she received the Lifetime TV Hero award in Los Angeles,
California for her work. Carolyn was also a contributing writer and journalist for such
publication as Grace Magazine, Precious Times, City Wide Zip, Proud Magazine, the Tri-State
Defender and the Commercial Appeal.

 

In addition to Sisters Network, Carolyn Whitney obtain her educational degree at Tennessee A&M State University and completed a Master’s degree and forty five post graduate hours from the
University of Memphis. She was a teacher in the Memphis School System for 42 years which led
to her being listed in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.

 

She served as an Executive
Council member of the Crescent Club, a National Council of Negro Women member, American
Business Women’s Association member, a river city mass choir member and a sister of Zeta Phi
Beta Sorority, Inc.

 

When asked “how did you grow the organization”, Mrs. Whitney stated” Everything I do, I get
from God. If He doesn’t say do it, I don’t do it. If He says do it, that’s what I do.”

 

Mrs. Carolyn Whitney was an example of a Virtuous Woman.

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We love you and miss you so much!

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-With Love,

Your Sisters Network Memphis Chapter

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