Cancer Survivor's Nonprofit Gets Boost for Chemo Kits

When Rosemary Carrera battled Stage 2 breast cancer through months of chemotherapy and radiation, she made herself a promise: no one else should face treatment alone.

The Miami licensed optometrist, wife, and mother launched 305 Pink Pack in 2020 to bridge the gap between diagnosis and daily life. Her nonprofit connects cancer patients with transportation to treatments, childcare help, and practical recovery support.

"Unless you've been through a cancer diagnosis, you have no idea what it's like," Carrera said. Her organization also provides "chemo kits" filled with items that ease treatment side effects, from lip balm to personal care products and comfort items.

The nonprofit recently ran out of supplies after distributing its latest batch of kits. That need caught the attention of Local 10's Good News South Florida segment, which connected Carrera with an unexpected partner.

Renee De Bien, manager of Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy, met Carrera during a surprise visit arranged by the news station. The pharmacy division, which helps patients manage complex medical conditions, donated enough supplies to completely restock the chemo kits with every item on Carrera's wish list.

The donation included cough drops, moisturizing products, socks, and other essentials frequently requested by patients undergoing treatment. "We just hold their hand throughout their journey, at least so they are just able to focus on healing," De Bien explained.

Local 10 viewers added to the support with a $500 donation presented on behalf of the Good News South Florida community. The funds will help 305 Pink Pack continue serving patients when they need it most.

The Ripple Effect

Community support like this allows cancer patients to shift their focus from daily survival to healing. When someone shows up with a care package or drives a patient to treatment, they're removing one more obstacle from an already overwhelming journey.

The nonprofit is now seeking volunteers to drive patients to appointments, help with fundraisers, or donate supplies for future kits. Each contribution creates space for someone battling cancer to breathe a little easier.

Carrera's experience taught her that cancer treatment isn't just about medical care. Sometimes healing starts with knowing someone cares enough to pack comfort items in a bag or offer a ride when you're too tired to drive yourself home.