Our Story

Born in a moment of pain, guided by purpose, and led by the daughters who carry it forward, this is the legacy of Cierra Sisters.

Cierra Sisters began with a diagnosis but it quickly became a calling.

The Story

In 1996, just one day after her 35th birthday, Bridgette Hempstead was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a moment that shook her world. Like many Black women, she faced not only the physical reality of the disease but the systemic neglect and silence that too often surrounds it in our healthcare system.

Seeking comfort, Bridgette turned to her mother. After sharing her fears and pain, her mother listened, embraced her, and said words that would shape the rest of her life: “You have work to do.” Bridgette also turned to her faith, where she heard a divine message from God: “Bring my daughters together.”

That calling became the seed of what would grow into Cierra Sisters—a sanctuary of knowledge, support, and advocacy for Black women and women of color navigating breast cancer.

From that moment on, Bridgette committed her life to making sure no woman would walk the cancer journey alone. She founded Cierra Sisters on the pillars of community trust, cultural relevance, and shared wisdom. Her leadership was not only bold—it was sacred. She became a powerful bridge between the medical establishment and her community, challenging disparities, demanding equity, and empowering women through education, sisterhood, and self-advocacy.

Over the next 26 years, Bridgette’s impact rippled outward. She partnered with institutions like the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, where her work helped reshape how breast cancer is researched, discussed, and treated in communities of color. Through groundbreaking collaborations, she amplified the voices of Black women in medicine and in science—fighting not just for survival, but for dignity and agency in care.

Though Bridgette has passed, her spirit is deeply rooted in every life touched by Cierra Sisters. Her legacy lives on in every conversation, every event, every woman who learns to speak up and ask, “What are my options?” This is more than a nonprofit.

This is a movement born of divine purpose, radical love, and unshakable faith.

Honoring Our Founder

Bridgette Helen Hempstead

Feb 21, 1961 – Dec 12, 2024

With love, reverence, and deep gratitude, we celebrate the life and legacy of Bridgette Helen Hempstead, a visionary leader, devoted mother and grandmother, and tireless advocate for health equity and empowerment. Born in Sacramento, CA, on February 21, 1961, Bridgette passed away peacefully on December 12, 2024, at the age of 63.

Bridgette was the founder of Cierra Sisters, a nonprofit organization born from her personal journey with breast cancer. Through Cierra Sisters, she built a powerful community of support, education, and healing for Black women and families facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Her mission was rooted in faith, compassion, and a fierce commitment to saving lives through awareness and advocacy.

Known for her infectious joy, radiant smile, and boundless generosity, Bridgette touched the lives of all who knew her. Whether speaking at events, mentoring women in crisis, or simply sharing a heartfelt laugh, she lived each day with courage, grace, and an unshakable belief in the power of community.

Bridgette’s legacy will continue through the hearts and hands of her beloved daughters, who will carry forward the work of Cierra Sisters with the same passion and purpose that their mother embodied. Their commitment ensures that Bridgette’s vision will endure uplifting, educating, and empowering generations to come.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and the many individuals and communities she inspired and served.

Though Bridgette is no longer with us in body, her spirit, strength, and mission live on. She leaves behind a lasting impact and a legacy of hope, faith, and love.