Columnist Erika Bracey

Chicago native, Erika Bracey, is one of Chicago’s most celebrated entrepreneurs and creative engineers. From her creation of hand whipped spa products, Butter Kup; used by major celebrities to her latest passion, Blest Bracelets.  Launched in February of 2012, Blest Bracelets has been featured on Chicago network television stations, ABC-7, NBC Chicago, WCIU and FOX 50 Perspectives.  Erika’s notable accolades have not come without major obstacles. In 2010, Bracey, a youthful, energetic, and vibrant woman was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Although her belief is that the primary challenges are behind her, as a survivor, she felt compelled to create a living and wearable example of the obstacles that cancer patients endure.  From diagnosis to treatment, mental and economic hurdles, Bracey is determined to fight for others who suffer from the debilitating effects of breast cancer.  Blest Bracelets can be seen on the wrists of men and women nationwide as a symbol of hope, endurance, and perseverance.  A percentage of proceeds from every bracelet sale will be donated to Different Shades of Pink Charity and for every 15th bracelet sold, one will be given to a fighter or survivor.

During Bracey’s research, she realized the compelling disparity in the mortality rate of women of color and other individuals with inferior resources. To that end, she established a newly formed philanthropic effort, Different Shades of Pink (“DSP”), which seeks to serve the RIGHT NOW needs of patients and families affected by breast cancer.

Armed with the support of her family and friends, Erika presents her testimony of transformed lifestyle choices from healthy eating, faith, and fortitude as the new face of breast cancer in a darker shade of pink!