Our sisterhood · Since 1998
Founded by survivors. Carried by sisters.
STAARS (Surviving, Thriving, African-Americans Rallying Support) was founded in July 1998 by breast cancer survivors Barbara Davis and Toni Clark. It was the first breast cancer support group in Memphis founded by survivors themselves.
Why we began
Vocal and visible.
A need existed for an African American breast cancer support group that was "vocal and visible," because open conversations about cancer in our community were basically non-existent.
Toni was adamant that we should give "voice to our victory" over cancer, and end the silence and stigma that came with a diagnosis. Women needed to hear our stories, learn from our experiences, and know that breast cancer was a speed bump in the road, not a death sentence.
Our motto
Education. Encouragement. Empowerment.
Our collective affirmation as breast cancer survivors:
"Be Healthy, Be Hopeful, Be Happy, and Be Blessed."
Our history
Nearly three decades of showing up.
From one conversation between two survivors to the largest breast cancer support group in the MidSouth.
- July 1998
Two survivors start it all
Barbara Davis and Toni Clark found STAARS, the first breast cancer support group founded by survivors in Memphis.
- The early years
A community steps up
The Memphis Cancer Foundation, founded by Dr. Kirby Smith, and Pat McRee of the Flying Colors Support Network provide meeting space, supplies, refreshments and guidance, and serve as STAARS' parent organization for community grants.
- Growing
The largest support group in the MidSouth
STAARS sisters take speaking engagements, join health fairs, and work with local breast cancer organizations to educate women and push for a cure.
- 2005
A first community grant
The Memphis MidSouth Affiliate of Susan G. Komen awards STAARS its first community grant, renewed each year until the affiliate closed its Memphis office. It powers the STAAR Witness Program for African American, uninsured, underinsured and medically underserved women.
- April 2008
The HOPE Award
The Intercultural Cancer Council honors STAARS with its Helping Other People Endure (HOPE) Award for the STAAR Witness Program.
- 2014
Standing on our own
STAARS secures its own 501(c)(3) status under the JAID (Jennie and Isiah Davis) Foundation.
- Today
Still vocal. Still visible.
Free monthly Sister Circles, a 24-hour survivor line, Sister Step mentoring and practical help for women across Memphis.
What we do
Support for every chapter.
Free, survivor-led and rooted in Memphis.
24-hour survivor line
Call any time and talk with a breast cancer survivor.
Sister Circles
Free monthly support meetings with refreshments and expert speakers.
Find a circleSister Step mentors
A survivor paired with you for your whole journey.
Practical help
For eligible women: wigs, bras, prostheses, co-pays and rides.
See what’s coveredWith gratitude
Our supporters, past and present.
No movement is built alone. Thank you to every church, school, business and organization that has stood with STAARS.
Be part of the sisterhood.
Whether you are a survivor, a woman newly diagnosed, or someone who loves her, there is a place for you here.