The Julie Rogers "Gift of Life" Program is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization located in Beaumont, Texas and serving all of Southeast Texas. The organization has funded nearly 19,000 free mammograms and more than 6,000 free prostate cancer screenings, and has conducted more than 700 educational outreach encounters since its inception, reaching 100,000 people. In addition, the organization has helped extend the lives of more than 150 individuals who have been diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer and provided access to treatment through its efforts.
The "Gift of Life" takes a holistic approach in the fight against cancer by focusing on education, detection, access to treatment and follow-up support. In October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the "Gift of Life" kicks off a series of regional activities with an emphasis on survivorship, faith, hope and celebration of life, including a major event, which in 2010 was attended by more than 1,500 people. Throughout the year, more than 1,700 medically underserved women receive free clinical breast exams and mammograms. A "Gift of Life" case manager arranges diagnostic testing and access to treatment for those who have abnormal results.
Having been recognized as using “best practices” by UTMB, the organization received the prestigious Harold P. Freedman award from the American Cancer Society in 2003 “for showing outstanding efforts in providing cancer control activities to the underserved populations in the State of Texas.”
Most recently, the Texas Medical Association Foundation (TMAF) presented its 2011 John P. McGovern Champion of Health Award to the “Gift of Life,” recognizing the program for its outstanding contribution to Texas’ public health through its holistic approach to fighting cancer.
As the largest cancer screening and prevention program between Houston and New Orleans, the "Gift of Life" has succeeded in raising the awareness levels of breast, prostate and testicular cancer; conveying the important message that early detection is the best protection in the fight against cancer; communicating the negative effects of tobacco; and providing a support system for survivors.
