Our Story

Hi, I’m Karen. I founded the Karen T. Stall Research & Breast Institute (KTSRBI) after walking my own path through breast cancer. During that journey, I realized how many others were not only fighting the disease but also facing overwhelming financial challenges. I was incredibly fortunate to have the love and support of my husband and sons. That support lit a fire in me to help others feel less alone and more empowered during one of the hardest times in their lives.

The Start of Something Bigger

Just before my 10-year cancerversary, I started following the work of Dr. Stephen Rose, a tomosynthesis radiologist who was researching how 3D mammography could detect breast cancer more effectively than traditional 2D imaging. Even with my untrained eye, the difference in clarity was striking.

After many conversations with Dr. Rose, my husband could see how passionate I had become about making this advanced screening technology accessible to everyone who needed it. In 2010, for my 10-year cancer-free anniversary, he gave me the most meaningful gift I could imagine: the founding of KTSRBI, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping others detect breast cancer earlier and access the care they deserve.

Local Impact and Legislative Change

Since its founding, KTSRBI has helped fund advanced screening technology in hospitals across the Greater New Orleans area and at Memorial Hermann in Houston, Texas. Our goal is to make sure more patients get the most accurate and potentially life-saving screenings possible.

In 2018, Louisiana became the ninth state in the country to make 3D tomosynthesis the standard of care. With the help of Senator Patrick Connick and Representative Julie Stokes, House Bill 460 passed, removing the extra cost burden and making the best detection available to everyone in the state.

Supporting the Whole Journey

KTSRBI also launched a grant program to support patients along their breast cancer journey. Eligible recipients can use this one-time grant to cover daily living expenses or out-of-pocket medical costs, easing some of the financial strain that often comes with treatment.

Early detection saves lives. Ask for the best screening available. It could make all the difference.