Empowering patients affected by cancer
- Jennifer Bishop
- Jun 18
- 2 min read
October 15, 2025
University Health
At University Health, cancer care for all is more than a saying; it’s a mission. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re highlighting Bra Couture KC, a local partner that’s empowering patients as they receive cancer treatment.
“I was immediately drawn to Bra Couture KC,” said cancer survivor Jennifer Bishop, “because every dollar raised here stays here.” We recently chatted with Bishop, who volunteers as a logistics and auction manager for Bra Couture KC. Bishop explained that as she went through treatment at another medical center she found out her insurance wouldn’t cover her final chemotherapy treatment. “I was devastated,” she said. And while her friends and family were able to scrape together the money, Bishop knew not everyone is that fortunate. “To imagine people not being able to have enough insurance to have life-saving treatment is heart breaking.”
Bra Couture KC has been supporting men and women affected by cancer for 15 years.
Founded by Sharon Payne, a fellow cancer survivor, the organization’s biggest fundraiser – a fashion show celebrating those thriving after a cancer diagnosis – raised an impressive $760,000 in a single evening last year.
Bra Couture uses that money to support uninsured and underinsured cancer patients in Kansas City. University Health is fortunate to have the Bra Couture KC Cancer Services Center at the Richard and Annette Block Cancer Center, located on the fifth floor of the UH4 building.
“We know that a cancer diagnosis can touch every part of a person’s life,” said Tina Shropshire, certified oncology patient navigator at University Health. “Your healing time might require time away from work. Bra Couture KC allows us to offer patients financial assistance so they can focus on their health. Whether they’re being fitted for a new wig, or offered assistance paying a power bill, patients are incredibly grateful to Bra Couture KC.”
The Bra Couture KC Cancer Services Center at University Health offers uninsured and underinsured cancer patients the following support:
• Wigs
• Molded breast prosthetics and bras
• Lymphedema garments
• Lymphedema consulting services
• Ensure nutrition shakes
• Financial assistance for groceries, gas and utilities
A University Health patient navigator can assist patients in accessing these important resources.
Bra Couture KC currently operates seven centers across the Kansas City metro area, with plans to open two more centers in the coming years. To learn more, visit www.bracouturekc.com.
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