The Pink Perspective | May 2026


Get Your Tickets NOW! Bust-a-Move: The Hottest Dance Party for a Cause Returns!

Get ready because the dance floor is about to come alive for a night that’s equal parts celebration and purpose. Going Beyond the Pink’s Bust-a-Move for Breast Cancer Dance Party (BAM) 2026 is back, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more meaningful than ever. Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 27th from 6:00–9:00 PM at The Elia located in Historic Wilmington, and prepare to dance the night away while supporting breast cancer patients and survivors right here in our community.

From the moment the doors open at 6:00 PM, guests will enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with music, connection, and inspiration. DJ Miss Story will be spinning crowd-favorite hits, keeping the energy high from the first beat to the last. Guests will also enjoy a delicious catered dinner, heartfelt survivor spotlights, a silent auction packed with must-have items, and a 50/50 raffle that gives everyone a chance to give back—and win big.

Whether you’re coming with friends, a partner, or flying solo, BAM is all about community. It’s a space where celebration meets compassion, where every dance step helps support critical services like patient navigation, education, and meaningful connection for those facing breast cancer.

Purchase Your Tickets TODAY - before we sell out!

  • $60 per person
  • $100 per couple (save $20!)
  • $25 for survivors

So grab your tickets, invite your friends, and get ready for a night you won’t forget.

Want to make an even bigger impact?

NEW Program! Free Screening Mammograms For Uninsured in New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender Counties

Removing Barriers. Saving Lives.

Breast cancer affects hundreds of individuals across Southeastern North Carolina every year. Early detection is one of the most powerful tools we have to improve outcomes but for many, the cost of screening and diagnostic services can be a major barrier.

The Going Beyond the Pink's new Coastal NC Mammogram Access Program helps bridge that gap by providing financial assistance for those who need breast health services but cannot afford them. Our goal is simple: No one should miss a potentially life-saving mammogram because of cost.

What Services Are Available?

Through the Coastal NC Mammogram Access Fund, eligible participants may receive financial assistance for:

  • Screening Mammograms
  • Baseline or annual breast cancer screening.
  • Diagnostic Mammograms
  • Additional imaging when symptoms or abnormalities are present.
  • Biopsy Services, when recommended by a healthcare provider after diagnostic imaging.

Services require a physician referral and are provided through trusted imaging and medical providers in New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties.

Why This Program Matters

Many individuals fall into a gap where they do not qualify for public programs but still cannot afford screening or diagnostic care. Without access to early detection, breast cancer may be diagnosed later when treatment is more difficult and outcomes are worse. By removing financial barriers, the Coastal NC Mammogram Access Program helps:

  • Improve early detection of breast cancer
  • Reduce healthcare disparities in our community
  • Provide timely care for those who might otherwise go without screening
  • Offer education and support throughout the breast health journey

And of course, participants also receive access to Going Beyond the Pink’s online breast health education resources, empowering women to stay informed and proactive about their health.

To learn more, check with your doctor or email info@goingbeyondthepink.org


Pink Squad is Growing - Spread the Word!

Pink Squad, Going Beyond the Pink’s exclusive online wellness and survivorship platform is growing! Our vibrant online community is now available for breast cancer survivors throughout NC and beyond. If you have a friend or relative who is a breast cancer survivor, feel free to invite them to join for FREE!

Members have access to FREE live expert-led programming, group coaching sessions, and interactive classes designed to support your mind, body, and spirit. Each month join live sessions with cancer care professionals including nutritionists, exercise specialists, and wellness coaches - all focused on topics that matter most to survivors and care partners.

You’ll find classes in yoga, meditation, gentle stretching, cooking and nutrition, managing side effects of treatment, and more—all accessible from the comfort of home. Whether you’re seeking new tools for self-care, practical guidance for survivorship, or a welcoming community that “gets it,” Pink Squad is here for you and now you can invite your breast cancer survivor friends and family to join too!

Sign up now!


Only A Few Tickets Left! Join us for Breast Cancer Awareness Night with the Cape Fear Ghost Crabs!

Get ready for a fun and meaningful night at the ballpark! The Cape Fear Ghost Crabs, Wilmington’s newest team in the Old North State Collegiate Summer League are hosting Breast Cancer Awareness Night on Wednesday, May 27 at 6 PM at Brooks Baseball Stadium (UNCW). Come cheer on the Ghost Crabs as they take on the Mid-State Melon Mashers while celebrating strength, survivorship, and the power of community.

We’re especially excited to share that GBTP breast cancer survivors attend FREE! Bring your friends, your family, and your team spirit as we fill the stands with pink and show our support together.

Reserve your spot now - only 5 seats remain!

Let’s make it a night to remember - see you at the ballpark!

May Monthly Workshop - Building a Mental Wellness Plan

Join Kelly Purcell, MA, RYT200 host of the Sustained Well Podcast to learn tips for managing challenges like anxiety, fear of recurrence, body image concerns, and post-treatment uncertainty—while creating a personalized mental wellness plan.

May 20, 2026- 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Going Beyond the Pink Office

Onsite space limited to 12 - Click to Register.


April Workshop - Journaling to Wellness

Last month we learned that writing can be a powerful path to healing. Our participants explored using guided journaling exercises to process anxiety, explore their survivorship identity, and develop coping strategies that support emotional well-being and self-discovery. Most importantly we learned that journaling doesn't have to simply involve writing - you can draw, doodle, record your voice or whatever works to help you get your feelings out!


In the News - A Couple’s Story Is a Powerful Reminder About Early Detection (Including for Men)

Why it matters: For breast cancer survivors, the phrase “trust your body” can carry deep meaning. A recent People magazine article about a husband and wife both diagnosed with breast cancer is resonating with survivors because it underscores a message many of us know firsthand: early detection can change everything.

The story: Steve and Mitzi Ellis of North Carolina never expected breast cancer to become part of both of their lives. Mitzi was diagnosed first in 2009 and later experienced a recurrence in 2013. Her cancer was found early enough for treatment that included surgery and radiation. Years later, Steve noticed a lump on his chest and sought medical attention, a decision that led to his own breast cancer diagnosis.

Male breast cancer is rare, accounting for less than 1% of breast cancer diagnoses in the United States. But Steve’s experience became a powerful reminder that breast cancer is not limited to women and that paying attention to physical changes matters for everyone.

What survivors may recognize: The couple repeatedly emphasized one thing: early detection gave them options. Finding cancer before it advanced allowed for faster treatment and greater hope for recovery. Mitzi said plainly that “early detection saved our lives.”

For survivors, that message often lands differently. Many know the emotional weight of mammograms, follow-up scans, and ongoing vigilance after treatment ends. This story validates the importance of continuing to advocate for your health, paying attention to your body, and keeping up with recommended screenings even years after diagnosis.

A reminder about survivorship: The Ellis family’s story also highlights something survivors understand well: cancer affects entire families and relationships, not just individuals. Shared resilience, support systems, and community can make an enormous difference during treatment and beyond.

Their experience is helping raise awareness not only about breast cancer in men, but also about the value of speaking up when something feels unusual and seeking care early.

Bottom line: Breast cancer survivorship often comes with a heightened awareness of the body and a deeper appreciation for early detection. Stories like Steve and Mitzi Ellis’s are a reminder that listening to your body, staying engaged in follow-up care, and advocating for screening can truly save lives.


INA®, The Intelligent Nutrition Assistant

Going Beyond the Pink and Savor Health have partnered to share an amazing resource with you (psst... it's free!). Ina®, The Intelligent Nutrition Assistant provides personalized, evidence-based nutrition support 24/7 “on demand” to help cancer patients.

Learn more & sign up to get free access to INA here: https://www.goingbeyondthepink.org/ina


Get Involved: Volunteer with Going Beyond the Pink

Do you have free time and would like to help others? Are you experienced with social media and Canva? Then Going Beyond the Pink needs you!

We are currently seeking dedicated volunteers to support our team with a few hours of administrative assistance each week. From helping with day-to-day tasks to supporting behind-the-scenes operations, volunteers play a vital role in helping us serve breast cancer patients and survivors in our community.

If you have experience with Canva, social media, or general administrative support, we would especially love to hear from you but a passion for our mission is what matters most. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a real impact, build skills, and be part of a compassionate, purpose-driven organization.

Interested in joining us? Reach out today, we’d love to connect and find the right fit for you!


Shop GBTP Custom Merchandise

Looking for a way to show your support for GBTP? How about rocking some GBTP-branded t-shirts or sweatshirts? They make great gifts for friends and loved ones and help support the work we do. Shop our GBTP t-shirts, sweatshirts and mugs here.


Help Us Continue Helping You!

Since 2017, Going Beyond the Pink has been helping the breast cancer community in Southeastern North Carolina with support resources, care bags, educational materials, survivorship workshops and financial assistance to help cover rising out-of-pocket medical costs for breast cancer patients.

Your continued support of our mission has a direct impact on our local community. To date, we’ve awarded over $110,000 in financial assistance and provided thousands of support resources to our breast cancer community. Supportive resources are shown to improve breast cancer survival rates by up to 64%!

Your support helps our breast cancer community beat the odds!

Follow us on Social Media!


Words to Live By

"If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair."
Shirley Chisholm

Coming Events!

  • May 20, 2026 - 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Monthly Workshop - Thriving Beyond Treatment: Building a Mental Wellness Plan in the GBTP office.
  • May 27, 2026 6:00 p.m. at Brooks Stadium at UNCW - Breast Cancer Awareness Night with the Cape Fear Ghost Crabs. Sign up now!
  • June 20, 2026 - 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Monthly Workshop - Get Moving: Chair Yoga for Healing and Strength in the GBTP office.
  • June 27, 2026 - 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Bust-a-Move for Breast Cancer dance party, dinner, and silent auction.

3500 Oleander Dr., Wilmington, NC 28403
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It's Almost Here! Bust-a-Move: The Hottest Dance Party for a Cause Returns! Going Beyond the Pink’s Bust-a-Move for Breast Cancer Dance Party (BAM) 2026 is back, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more meaningful than ever. Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 27th from 6:00–9:00 PM at The Elia located in Historic Wilmington, and prepare to dance the night away while supporting breast cancer patients and survivors right here in our community. From the moment the doors open at 6:00 PM, guests will...

Bust-a-Move for Breast Cancer Dance Party - Buy Your Tickets Now! Join Going Beyond the Pink on Saturday, June 27th, from 6:00 - 9:00 PM at The Elia in Wilmington, NC for the Bust-a-Move for Breast Cancer Dance Party (BAM)! This exciting evening of music, dancing, food, and celebration will raise critical funds to support breast cancer patients and survivors in our community. Don't Miss - Live DJ – DJ Miss Story will be spinning the best hits all night! Catered Dinner: Local Wilmington...

Bust-a-Move for Breast Cancer Dance Party - Buy Your Tickets Now! Join Going Beyond the Pink on Saturday, June 27th, from 6:00 - 9:00 PM at The Elia in Wilmington, NC for the Bust-a-Move for Breast Cancer Dance Party (BAM)! This exciting evening of music, dancing, food, and celebration will raise critical funds to support breast cancer patients and survivors in our community. Don't Miss - Live DJ – DJ Miss Story will be spinning the best hits all night! Catered Dinner: Local Wilmington...