This past year being the toughest for any non-profit, they were able to raise funds and awareness and achieve this milestone. The nonprofit Ta Ta Rebels Inc. has reached a 5-year milestone. In 2016, family and friends of founder and Breast Cancer survivor Kim Ramirez held a fundraiser to help with the expenses of her lymphedema diagnosis. At that time, Ms. Ramirez realized that many survivors struggle with the financial challenges of the life changing effects of treatment and surgeries. She became determined to raise awareness and funds to help others like herself.

By January 2018 it became a 501c (3) nonprofit. The name reflects a rebellion of survivors, overlooked once you are no longer a cancer patient. The organization is all volunteers that dedicate their time and energy to achieve their goals and mission. Ta Ta Rebels Inc. is the only nonprofit that financially assists survivors that are no longer in treatment. The organization assist with co-pays, deductibles, DME (Durable Medical Equipment) such as prosthesis, mastectomy bras and compression sleeves.

Ms. Ramirez Lymphedema diagnosis was four years after her Breast Cancer diagnosis and treatment. This restricted her arm movement, caused swelling, neuropathy and constant throbbing. This is not a curable disease but it is manageable with compression sleeves and therapy. To her dismay, these are not included in coverage by most health insurances. By October 2019, the organization created a therapy program with Melodie Aldinolfi, a licensed and certified medical massage therapist. The program covers the cost of three Lymphedema/ Scar Tissue sessions. These therapies release the pressure of lymphedema and scar tissue to help regain full range of motion.

The organization has raised over $20,000 since 2017 and assisted over four dozen women in Pennsylvania. The annual event held the first Saturday of every October has grown each year. There is more community involvement as Survivorship Awareness is increased. The businesses of Martin’s Chips, Turkey Hill Diary, Filson Water (Belco), and Roots Beverages donate food and refreshments. The Elizabethtown Post #329, Linglestown American Legion Riders Post
#272 and Delaches Fishing Association support the organizations efforts and mission by donating their time, monetary gifts and establishments. The organization also receives monetary gifts and raffle items from many local businesses, American Legions, VFW’s, and other private social clubs as well as.

Each year they have outreach events leading up to the October event to share their mission and goals for Survivorship. These opportunities included the Penn State Pink Zone game, Barnstormers Non-Profit day, Horizon of Hope of Hershey Brunch, Penn State Medical Center “Thriving and Surviving” breakfast. As well as holding a tattoo event at Capital Tattoo Company and celebrating National Survivor day in June.

Here are a few testimonials from survivors that the organization has assisted in varying ways.

  “The help you provided made it possible to replace my mastectomy bras. Thank you so very MUCH!” – Survivor from Mifflintown

        “I have full range of motion in my right arm and shoulder again!! Thank you for letting me know this was possible with the Scar Tissue therapy sessions.” – Survivor from Elizabethtown

        “Thank you for helping me with my deductible. I was able to get the compression sleeves to manage my lymphedema.” – Survivor from Shermansdale

        “I can’t thank your organization enough for helping with my co-pays.” – Survivor from Perkasie

       “Covering the cost of my co-pays has been very helpful.” – Survivor from Clarks Summit

        “Because of your organization, I am able to purchase the items needed to feel like a woman again.” – Survivor from Wallingford

        “I am so thankful to find this organization.” – Survivor from Lancaster

        “Your assistance has helped me tremendously. You’re amazing and keep up the great work.” – Survivor from Harrisburg”

These survivors are the hope for newly diagnosed patients. With early detection and early diagnosis, there are many more patients’ surviving and thriving. With the support of Ta Ta Rebels Inc. they can also maintain a healthy and happy Survivorship. There is something positive in each day!