Meet Delores Pendergrass

Today we’d like to introduce you to Delores Pendergrass.

Hi Delores, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am a California native, born and raised in Los Angeles. I am a survivor of  Breast Cancer, Domestic Violence, and Sexual Assault. After being diagnosed with breast cancer and going to my chemo treatments, I witnessed some of my fellow chemo patients not having a lot of support from their loved ones like I did, and it really saddened me. By the time I started maybe my fourth treatment, I started giving each patient cards with words of encouragement, little treats like cupcakes, and even little trinkets with angels or bells every three weeks. The bell signifies your last chemo treatment. Those small gestures is what really ignited an even greater passion. My daughter saw how passionate I was about supporting my fellow cancer patients, and the passion that she has for domestic violence and sexual assault could blossom into a nonprofit that centers itself around Black women.

After about a year and a half of brainstorming, B.Well was created. We kicked off our first annual domestic violence/breast cancer event on October 22, 2023. We offered free mammogram services and resources for survivors to heal, such as a sound bathing session and a panel discussion. The highlight of the event was the incredible participants who came together to share their stories, support one another, and find strength in the community. It was a truly inspiring and uplifting experience, and we are eagerly looking forward to this year’s event. Through B.Well, we aim to create a safe and nurturing space where women can find the support, resources, and empowerment they need to heal and thrive.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has not been easy, but with God and the support of my family, I made it through it all. Because of my different journeys, I am able to comfort, support, and understand what someone else is going through. I always had a desire to reach out to those who have been sexually assaulted, but I never knew exactly how to do it. I took a couple of classes at Los Angeles Southwest college in psychology to try to help me get closer to my passion. I also try to get a pilot program started with a local law enforcement agency to ride along with the officers and victims of sexual assault to help comfort them. Despite my challenges, I am proud of where I am today and the direction of B.Well. Our journey has been challenging, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. We are committed to making a lasting impact and bringing hope to those who need it most. We hope to secure more funding and resources to address the high disparate rates of breast cancer for Black women and violence against Black women.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I have been proudly employed with the county of Los Angeles for 19 years, working in the esteemed Civil Management Bureau. As a dedicated Court Records System Clerk/Levying Officer, my role revolves around processing and enforcing court orders to levy upon various types of property, including real estate, vehicles, monies, jewelry, artwork, and more. Throughout my career, I have remained steadfast in my commitment to integrity and professionalism, never allowing anyone’s words or actions to sway me from my principles. What truly sets me apart from others is my genuine compassion and empathy, which I bring to every interaction. With a heart the size of Texas, I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
One surprising aspect about me is my love for being in the water despite not knowing how to swim. There’s something incredibly calming and rejuvenating about being immersed in the water, whether it’s at the beach, a pool, or even just a relaxing bath. While I may not have mastered the art of swimming, I find solace and joy in simply being near the water’s edge, feeling its cool embrace, and listening to the soothing sounds it creates. It’s a reminder that sometimes, we can find happiness and serenity in the simplest of experiences.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bwellinc.com
• Instagram: Bwelll_
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bwellinc

Image Credits
Jasmine Smith, my daughter and friends