In Memory of Fran Branch

Fran was an exceptional human being and a beloved mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend. She raised us — Madeline, Jane, and Paul — while managing the endless demands of family life with remarkable care, humor, and love. She was a supportive partner to David for nearly 30 years. Fran was not only the heartbeat of our family, but a vibrant part of the Orrington and greater Bangor community. Over the years, she volunteered with the kids’ schools, Meals for ME, and served as a deacon and gardener at All Souls Congregational Church, building lasting friendships through everything from tennis to theater. Fran was full of life; she was curious (she would dive headfirst into new topics, often disappearing into rabbit holes for hours on end), silly (the family prankster), and creative (frequently experimenting with art forms). She was tough and was known for wearing her feelings on her sleeve. Fran was an athlete, a pianist, and a talented chef, and loved her many, many pets throughout her life, including her “ladies” (chickens). She had an infectious laugh and sense of humor, was a (long-winded but) enthusiastic storyteller, and a loyal friend to many.

Fran’s diagnosis at age 54 came as a complete shock to us. Her cancer was discovered only after David noticed a small dimple in her left breast; otherwise, she was healthy and had no symptoms. Over nearly two years, Fran underwent multiple chemotherapy regimens and clinical trials, while receiving care at Northern Light’s Lafayette Family Cancer Center in Brewer and at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. Her stage (IV) and diagnosis (triple negative) meant her treatments were limited – but she tried all of them, valiantly.

Fran remained focused on others, even during her own suffering. But despite having strong family support, medical knowledge, and the financial ability to access care, she still experienced how overwhelming and frustrating it could be to navigate a complex cancer diagnosis. 

Our family quickly realized this experience is even more difficult for many Mainers — particularly those living in rural parts of the state, where access to specialized breast cancer care often requires hours of travel. Through research and conversations with patients and providers, we learned that many people face impossible choices between traveling to treatment and meeting everyday needs at home.

In the years following Fran’s passing at age 56, less than two years after her diagnosis, we searched for a meaningful way to honor her life. In 2025, we decided to revitalize Pink Runway Project and rededicate its mission to helping make cancer care easier to navigate for Maine patients and families — first by supporting access to care, and ultimately by working toward the establishment of an accredited breast cancer center in Bangor.

When David founded Pink Runway Project in 2014 to raise awareness of post-mastectomy breast reconstruction options, we never imagined that, eleven years later, the organization would take on such deep personal meaning.

Though nothing will bring Fran back, we are incredibly grateful to have this meaningful outlet in which to channel our infinite grief. We feel her in everything we do, and know she would be proud that she helped spur this mission to support the far-too-many breast cancer survivors scattered throughout our home state.