Hello, and Welcome!

I’m Julie Ratner, Co-Founder and Chair of The Ellen Hermanson Foundation. I’m delighted that you're interested in learning more about our organization; thank you for taking the time to get to know us. 

In August 1996, alongside my late sister Emily Levin, we hosted the very first Ellen’s Run, an event that marked the beginning of The Ellen Hermanson Foundation. Now, as we approach our 30th anniversary, I’d love to share a little about Ellen, our inspiration for founding the organization, and all that we’ve accomplished together over the years.

Ellen was my younger sister, a vibrant, compassionate soul who, despite being too young to fully experience the 1960s, embraced its ideals. She was passionate about social justice, immersed in folk music, and committed to civil rights. After earning her BA from Connecticut College, she studied at Columbia University’s Middle East Institute and NYU’s School of Journalism, where she met her husband, Hugo Sanchez Moreno. In 1988, their daughter Leora was born, bringing them incredible joy.

Yet shortly after, Ellen began to struggle with breastfeeding. She sought help repeatedly but was assured her difficulty was typical for new mothers. Six months later, after insisting on further examination, a biopsy was performed and she received a diagnosis that would change her life: stage four breast cancer. 

This was the beginning of Ellen’s journey—one she faced with extraordinary courage, grit, and resilience. As a talented journalist, Ellen observed the world around her with a keen eye. She noticed many women facing cancer without the support network she was fortunate to have, and she felt driven to use her skills to reach out to others. Ellen’s mission became clear: she would foster awareness about breast cancer, educate women on early detection, and advocate for cancer survivors.

Ellen was deeply involved with several organizations, including The Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, where she edited The Networker newsletter, and she was one of four founders of The Jewish Healing Center, where she served as editor for The Outstretched Arm. She was also the founding director of Judges and Lawyers Breast Cancer Alert. Her dedication to supporting women’s health left an indelible mark, and though she passed in 1995, her mission continues to this day through The Ellen Hermanson Foundation.

Over nearly 30 years, the Foundation has achieved more than we could have ever imagined. I invite you to learn more about our valuable work by exploring our website:

• Access for All: No one is turned away from The Ellen Hermanson Breast Center due to lack of insurance or inability to pay.

• Emotional Support: We provide free psychosocial support to breast cancer survivors and their families.

• Community Focus: Through our Community Partnership Program, we serve and support our local community.

As a non-profit organization, we rely on the generosity of people like you to keep this mission alive. Together, we are changing lives and creating a legacy for women’s health.

Thank you for visiting, and I look forward to welcoming you to one of our many community events and celebrations as we honor The Ellen Hermanson Foundation’s 30th Anniversary in 2025.

With warmest regards,