Historical Profile
The Story Behind Brem Foundation

The power of POSSIBLE drives the mission of the Brem Foundation to Defeat Breast Cancer. Born in 2004 by a grassroots effort of dedicated women and men, the Foundation seeks to eliminate breast cancer as a life threatening disease by advancing diagnosis, treatment, research and education.

Dr. Rachel Brem, a world renowned radiologist, experienced many sleepless nights due to a lack of funding for a MRI Biopsy Device. The device was necessary for the protocol she developed recommending that all newly diagnosed breast cancer patients who are eligible have a MRI of both breasts before any treatments or surgeries. When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, there is a 25% chance there is a secondary site that is not detectable using mammography. If a secondary site of concern is identified using a MRI, a biopsy is performed to determine if there is another cancer. Depending on the location, the second site can be difficult to detect without a specialized MRI Biopsy Device. Dr. Brem called Suros, the equipment's manufacturer, and begged the CEO to borrow the device in order to help a specific group of her patients. Suros lent the MRI Biopsy Device to Dr. Brem primarily due to her incredible standing in the field of breast cancer detection and prevention.

It is said, "Necessity is the mother of invention" and necessity was the seed needed to plant a growing idea in the mind and heart of one of Dr. Brem's patients at a routine mammogram appointment. The patient learned that the hospital was about to lose the Suros MRI Biopsy Device due to lack of funding. The patient learned that many women would suffer without the availability of this critical diagnostic equipment. The patient learned the device had a hefty price tag, over $50,000! Armed with this knowledge, she decided to call on her friends to raise the monies needed for the device. People mobilized when they knew obtainable technology existed that could prevent unnecessary or inadequate surgery. People were empowered realizing that by donating to the Brem Foundation, they could improve breast cancer treatment and detection. The patient's efforts, the generosity of "angels" and the kindnesses of Suros made the purchase possible. Believe in the power of POSSIBLE!

Raising money for the improved diagnosis of breast cancer immediately transfers to saving women's lives. Women and men have become "angels" on a mission for the Brem Foundation. After the MRI Biopsy Device was purchased, a reassessment occurred. So much more needs to be done! From that realization, the Brem Foundation to Defeat Breast Cancer earned its wings to fly. Help us in our flight and become a "Rachel's Angel" today!