Industry HR Leaders and Breast Cancer Survivors Share Strategies to Support Employees Navigating a Diagnosis

Monday, September 22, 2025

The footwear industry came together on Friday, September 19, for an important discussion about how to support employees navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. Titled In Her Shoes: Understanding Breast Cancer and Supporting Women at Work, the webinar was presented by Two Ten Footwear Foundation and the Fashion Footwear Charitable Foundation (FFCF). 

Participants heard from HR leaders in footwear who shared strategies for supporting employees navigating breast cancer, as well as from leading medical experts and FFCF beneficiaries on the latest updates in screening, treatment and education.  

“People who are facing a diagnosis — whether their own, their spouse’s, a parent’s or child’s — we are letting them know that we are part of their team and are here to help them build their toolkit,” said Danielle Bolder, Human Resources Benefits Manager at Rack Room Shoes. 

The session closed with personal reflections from breast cancer survivors who also work in the footwear industry. 

“For leaders or colleagues on this call, supporting someone with a cancer diagnosis is all about remaining confidential, patient and calm,” said Alison Irvine, breast cancer survivor and director of inventory and imports at Birkenstock. “Be open to listening, but also be ready to hear the good, the bad and the ugly.” 

 

Are you a footwear employee looking for additional support? 

Two Ten Footwear Foundation offers free and confidential access to a wide range of counseling services and other resources to enhance your wellbeing.  

Learn More about our Counseling & Resources Programs.

 

Interested in Two Ten's Women in the Footwear Industry (WIFI) community?