The story behind heart&core begins with inspiration from our mom. It was her experience with breast cancer that inspired us to stand up and find a way to support others on their journey. After struggling to find bras during her recovery from a lumpectomy and radiation that were comfortable, supportive and wireless (this was not common 15 years ago!), we quickly realized there had to be a better option and—if we could not find it—we would create it. And in that one shopping trip, an idea was born.
That was the launch of our post-surgery bras, which have been refined and expanded with the expertise, insight and innovativeness of patients, nurses and doctors. We looked at every point of contact for the perfect pattern, a wide range of sizes for every body, premium quick-drying fabric, wide bands that don’t roll up, adjustable straps that don’t fall down and a unique drain management design that keeps drains close to your body and easy to see and manage — not hanging, swinging or hidden in a pocket. With a custom fit that feels like a hug, we brought our love to the product.
This was also the beginning of our journey of learning about breast cancer — from all aspects. About different treatments, insurance benefits, other supportive products and resources to help patients and their families as they go through this process, as ours did. Sometimes it’s about information and access to help that’s needed right away, in addition to the research and funding for programs.
Our understanding of the big picture and all the smaller details led us to the American Cancer Society (ACS). We love that this organization has a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Through research, information and programs and services, they connect cancer patients with free rides and lodging and a network of survivors. While we focus on breast cancer in October, this association works year-round to support people fighting all forms of cancer and improve their lives.
The ACS Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk raises funds for lifesaving breast cancer research and advancing health equity through essential programs and services as it brings participants together in more than 150 cities across the country for an important cause. We’re excited to be a part of this event and to connect with the community that has helped us improve upon our bras for women recovering from breast cancer treatments and surgeries. After all, to know this community is to know how we can continue supporting them in unique ways.
As we partner with ACS, it's important to us that heart&core shares in the mission to make a difference. For us, that's with every feature and benefit of our post-surgical bras as they make each patient’s recovery a more positive experience. As we honor our mom at the Making Strides walk October 12 at the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, we hope you join us by signing up for this inspiring event or donating to our fundraiser in honor those you know who have had their own breast cancer journey.