The Heart of Foundation 56

Foundation 56 is a breast cancer outreach organization dedicated to expanding access to quality care, education, and essential resources for patients and survivors.

Founded in memory of Bradie James’ mother, Etta James, who lost her life to breast cancer in 2001, Foundation 56 was created with a deeply personal purpose. Bradie often shares that if these services had been available at the time, his mother might still be here today.

The foundation supports critical services including education, mammogram screenings, diagnostic testing, transportation, and ongoing patient support. To date, Foundation 56 has contributed more than $500,000 toward breast cancer initiatives, including funding mobile mammogram units serving communities across South Louisiana and North Texas.

In 2011, Foundation 56 opened the Bradie James Resource Center at Methodist Dallas Medical Center, offering patients access to fitted wigs, prostheses, support groups, social therapy programs, and more. Through partnerships with organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen, Methodist Health System, and others, the foundation has served more than 25,000 individuals.

While many needs exist, Foundation 56 remains fully committed to one mission: supporting individuals impacted by breast cancer every step of the way.

feature story on Foundation 56 — March 24, 2011