As a leading manufacturer of breast reconstruction products, Mentor has long been an advocate of breast cancer education and we are dedicated to playing an even more prominent role in the future. We understand that in the process of dealing with breast cancer, there are many important decisions that must be made by women and their families. To make choices that are most appropriate for them, women need honest, straightforward information about breast reconstruction so that, along with their doctors, they can make informed decisions. In addition to helping provide women with this information, Mentor is committed to increasing the level of breast cancer awareness so that more money can be raised for research aimed at fighting this disease.

Last year, Mentor helped sponsor the Women�s Information Network Against Breast Cancer (WIN ABC) at their Winning Spirit Awards Recognition Luncheon. The luncheon, which was held in Beverly Hills, California, on March 28, 2000, recognized those who have shown support for the breast cancer research semipostal stamp. Among those honored at the event were First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton, United States Senator Dianne Feinstein and former California Congressman Vic Fazio. All were instrumental in spearheading legislation to develop the fund-raising stamp, which to date has earned over $11 million for breast cancer research.

Ms. Betsy Mullen, President and CEO of WIN ABC, played a vital role in bringing the historic fund-raising stamp to public attention. Ms. Mullen co-founded WIN ABC with her plastic surgeon, Dr. Brad Edgerton, following her mastectomy and breast reconstruction. Ms. Mullen was honored at the White House by First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton as part of the the initial issuance of 200 million breast cancer research fund-raising stamps.

Over the past two years during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Mentor has purchased 66,000 fund-raising postage stamps. The stamp costs 40 cents, 7 cents of which goes directly to the National Institutes of Health for breast cancer research. "To the best of my knowledge, Mentor has stepped up to the plate with one of the largest purchases of breast cancer research stamps so far," says Ms. Mullen. "I am delighted they chose to take a very public position. Not only has the stamp raised vital research funds, but it also has educated the public and increased breast cancer awareness, which is priceless."

Breast Buddy® is a registered trademark of Women's Information Network Against Breast Cancer.