History of The Rose

The Rose was created by women who shared a passion for life and women’s issues. Dr. Dixie Melillo’s main concern was saving lives. She had seen too many advanced breast cancers and had watched too many women lose the battle. Dorothy Weston-Gibbons’s passion was the value of women. If a woman could be convinced that she was worth the cost of a mammogram, then she’d believe she was worth anything.

They met Rose Kushner, journalist and breast cancer advocate, who challenged them to “get off their duffs and do something!” So, they did!

Since the beginning, The Rose has depended upon community support. Civic groups, foundations, corporations and individuals along with the unwavering commitment of employees, physicians and volunteers all helped to create an organization that has changed the lives of countless women and families.

Yet, then, as now, the women who select The Rose for their mammograms are the heart of our life’s work and the basis for our success. Women with insurance and women who have the ability to pay for services help offset the costs of those who cannot pay. It is a mission. It works.