Susan G. Komen staffer engages young professionals in supporting breast cancer awareness

Julie Oberschmidt has experienced the pain that comes from watching a loved one have to deal with breast cancer. 

“I had a grandmother who passed away and had breast cancer,” Oberschmidt says. “And I think it’s very important that we’re raising the money to fund research.” 

Oberschmidt works in development and communications for Susan G. Komen Greater Cincinnati, but she’s also leading the charge with a new young professionals committee.

“While there are young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer, it’s more common in older women, but I wanted to make sure we were getting the young community in Cincinnati involved,” Oberschmidt says. “Letting them know who we are and what we do in the community at a younger age, versus if they just came across us at an older age when family or friends are coming in contact with this disease.” 

She just started the organization about three months ago, but Oberschmidt says her group of about 20 volunteers is ready for its first major event, Dine Out for the Cure, in which eateries throughout the city will donate up to 50 percent of their profits for the evening of September 11, while individuals gather to enjoy dinner and fund an important cause. 

“Seventy-five percent of funds raised stay in the Cincinnati community to fund no-cost mammograms, screening treatment and support services for those who can’t afford it,” Oberschmidt says. “One in eight women is diagnosed with breast cancer, so it’s a pretty common disease, and we can’t turn our back on those who need our service.”