In a spirited display of community and compassion, Lindsey Wheeler, owner of Love Lindsey boutique in Bigfork, is raising funds to support breast cancer awareness and access to screening. With every sale of the Hope in the Heart of Montana sweatshirt or t-shirt, Wheeler donates $25 to the Save a Sister initiative—a collaborative program between Logan Health and the Flathead City-County Health Department that encourages women to schedule breast cancer screenings and provides financial support for those unable to afford them.
Wheeler, a longtime advocate for women’s health, found added inspiration from her children’s former teacher, Shelley Emslie, a member of the Save a Sister committee who works to educate the community about preventive breast cancer. Together, Emslie and Wheeler collaborated on the sweatshirt design with the message boldly printed on each garment, serving as a reminder of hope and community strength for anyone affected by breast cancer.
Since its founding in 2008, Save a Sister has been a lifeline for women across Northwest Montana, providing critical breast health services to those in need. The program, facilitated by the Logan Health Foundation and Logan Health’s dedicated breast health clinicians, has helped fund over 1,000 mammograms and ultrasounds, as well as hundreds of biopsies, lymphedema garments, and nutrition classes for local women. With more than $850,000 raised in community support, Save a Sister makes preventive screenings accessible for countless women, empowering them to take proactive steps in protecting their health and well-being.
“Save a Sister has always been about women in our community telling us what they need and we respond,” said Dr. Melissa Kaptanian breast surgeon and Save A Sister medical director. “Back in 2008, we heard that women wanted breast imaging but cost was a barrier, and we responded. It’s all about our moto to ‘lessen the impact of breast cancer in our community.’ I love having survivors and community members so involved – they are who will inform what Save a Sister needs to do next. To anyone else out there passionate about playing a part, I say come join us!”
“I am blessed with a large community of customers all over the country, and I feel a strong pull to always use that gift for good,” Wheeler said. “Women and mothers often put others first, but we need to prioritize our health, too. If even one woman books an appointment because of a post or a video they see from me, that’s a win.”
The funds raised from the Hope in the Heart of Montana apparel will continue supporting Save a Sister, even as Breast Cancer Awareness Month draws to a close. Wheeler has committed to extending the campaign through November, giving customers more time to contribute to the cause.
More than a fundraising effort, Wheeler hopes the project will encourage conversations around women’s health and inspire women to take action for themselves. “My wish is that these sweatshirts help start a conversation, remind others to prioritize their health, and give hope to anyone undergoing treatment that they’re not alone,” she added.
For Wheeler and Emslie, the collaboration represents the strength of local support and the power of community-driven initiatives to make a difference. As Wheeler said, “Being an advocate for women’s health will always be a priority.”
To purchase a Hope in the Heart of Montana sweatshirt or t-shirt, visit Love Lindsey in Bigfork or order online at www.lovelindsey.com
For more information about Save a Sister, to make a gift to the fund, or discuss opportunities to support health care in our community, please contact Dena Tomlinson at the Logan Health Foundation at dtomlinson@logan.org.