Meet Kandice Rose Rose | CEO & Founder, LMSW

WE JUST WANTED TO HELP, we saw lack of services and programs. The thought process behind starting Pretty Girls With Cancer stemmed from a deeply personal journey intertwined with loss, resilience, and the desire to make a difference. As a three-time cancer survivor myself, having witnessed the devastating impact of this disease on my family—my brother, grandmother, great grandmother, and mother—all succumbing to cancer, alongside the loss of Co-Founder Lindsey, cancer’s toll was undeniably profound.

I’ve been shaped by both triumph and tribulation, throughout my career.  I have witness the battles fought by my grandmother, brother, and mother profoundly influenced my perspective on life. It instilled in me a deep-seated appreciation for life, a relentless drive to pursue my aspirations.

I honestly did not think I would live to attend college, but I did. I received my degree in Psychology to help others and Master in Social Worker to be a psychotherapist. I’ve embraced challenges head-on, refusing to let anyone dictate what I can or cannot achieve. I’ve had doctors tell me that I will positively die if I did not do this treatment. Even when confronted with death, I’ve learned to trust my instincts and make bold decisions, even if they went against my medical treatment, friends and family.

Raised by hardworking parents, I inherited a “beast mode” mentality—that helps me pursuit my goals. Along the way, I’ve discovered the power of discretion, understanding that not every move I make needs to be broadcasted and relying on Jehovah God.

Despite learning challenges and academic struggles in school I took my weakness and leveraging my strengths to gain access to room I probably could not get into if I did not work on them. Along the way, I’ve been honored with various accolades, including the privilege of being chosen by President Obama to visit the White House—an experience that further fueled my passion for making a difference. Yet, amidst all my achievements, I find my greatest source of pride in being the Co-Founder of Pretty Girls With Cancer. This organization is a labor of love, driven by my genuine desire to uplift and support others facing similar struggles I experience.

In essence, my story is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering determination—a testament to the transformative power of embracing adversity and channeling it into a force for positive change. These are the reasons I have the name “The Survivor Chick”.

If my bestie was visiting, I’d want to show her the vibrant and diversity that is Houston! We’d kick things off with a cultural immersion at the city’s incredible museums. Of course, no trip to Houston would be complete without indulging in some mouthwatering restaurants! Houston has a new restaurant every week. We will have an ultimate food adventure, sampling everything from savory steak at Juliet’s, fresh sushi at Miyako to  Jamaican food at Reggie Hut and down south meal at Turkey Leg Hut. For the local scene, we’d hit up the rhythm of Houston’s live music scene. Feeling adventurous, we’d explore the historic Third Ward on a bike tour, stop at the neighborhood bar “The Spot” or “5015”, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant neighborhood. And of course, no visit to Houston would be complete without catching a Rocket’s game, enjoying the green oasis of Discovery Green, riding scooters downtown. Lastly, a dose of wellness, we’d swing by “Inner Me Studies” to break a sweat and rejuvenate our spirits with Zumba, my sister is the instructor!

In reflecting on the journey of Pretty Girls With Cancer, there are several individuals and groups to whom I owe credit and recognition. Foremost among them is my family—my parents, sisters, friends and board members—who have been unwavering of support and dedication to the organization. Their tireless efforts and selfless commitment have played a major role in shaping the vision and mission of Pretty Girls With Cancer, helping us forward even in the face of challenges.