From Survivor to Advocate – Joyce Williams’ Mission to Empower Savannah’s Breast Cancer Community

When Savannah’s Joyce Williams heard the words “you have breast cancer” in 2017, she had no idea that her journey would one day inspire hope and healing for countless others. What began as a deeply personal fight has transformed into a powerful mission—one that is changing lives across the Coastal Empire through her nonprofit, Keepers of the Flame.

In this inspiring episode of Savannah Spotlight, hosted by Ammie Dover, President of Caregiving Insider, and Michelle Horne, Joyce opens up about her own battle, the emotional challenges of cancer recovery, and the programs her foundation offers to help survivors weather the storm—together.

A Journey That Sparked a Movement

Within just 10 months of her diagnosis, Joyce underwent a bilateral mastectomy, reconstruction, chemotherapy, radiation, and a hysterectomy. While the physical toll was immense, she says the emotional impact was just as profound—and often overlooked.

“I wanted to be this poster child who never fell apart,” Joyce recalls. “But I learned the hard way that it’s okay to be human. Falling apart doesn’t mean weakness.”

Realizing there was a gap in emotional and mental health support for breast cancer patients, Joyce and a dedicated team founded Keepers of the Flame in 2022. Their mission? To empower local breast cancer patients physically, emotionally, and financially.

Programs That Make a Difference

💬 Free Mental Health Counseling
Thanks to a grant from Brothers Brother Foundation, Keepers of the Flame provides up to five free therapy sessions for breast cancer patients, with the ability to reapply.

💰 Hardship Assistance
From childcare during treatments to help with mounting bills, this program lightens the financial load during recovery.

📸 Empowerment Photography
A signature program that helps survivors reconnect with their bodies and redefine beauty—scars and all. The resulting portraits are displayed online and in a special Breast Cancer Awareness Month gallery across Savannah.

Redefining Strength & Beauty

For Joyce, empowerment photography is personal. During her treatment, her husband arranged a portrait session that helped her reclaim confidence. Now she offers that same experience to others, paired with words of encouragement from survivors—messages that offer what one participant called “a hug from someone who’s been there.”

How You Can Get Involved

Visit TogetherWeWeather.org to view the gallery, apply for programs, or donate to support their mission.

And don’t miss this episode of Savannah Spotlight—a moving conversation about resilience, beauty, and the power of community.

We could not make series like the Savannah Spotlight possible without the support of Horne Law Firm and Abrazo at Rice Hope.