Portraits of Philanthropy

Tina Johnson

One of Life’s Great Treasures

Tina Johnson didn’t set out to be an inspirational leader for breast cancer survivors. In fact, that was the farthest thing from her mind when she was told she had cancer some 30 years ago. Back then, a breast cancer diagnosis was something that one didn’t talk about, finding a wig and a prosthesis was even more difficult physically and emotionally, “there was nowhere for me to go to get fitted,” Tina recounts. “I went to the back of a local department store, people would stare at me while I was trying my wig on; I felt so isolated." 

Thanks to Tina, women from across the Valley have a special place to call their own and it’s appropriately named “Tina’s Treasures.” Much like the woman who inspired the store, women find joy in their otherwise difficult journey at Tina’s Treasures. The charming store located on the first floor of the Virginia G Piper Cancer Center, is the result of Tina’s experiences and her generous spirit. 

Ten years ago, through Scottsdale Healthcare Foundation, Tina, her husband, Bob, and their son Craig, made a significant contribution which enabled the dream of a boutique to become a reality. Today, the warm and inviting store provides a supportive environment and one-stop shopping that Tina longed for some 30 years ago. 

Tina’s Treasures is a true testament to the thousands of women who come in for a multitude of services from wig fittings, prosthesis, specially designed clothing and bathing suits. The chic shop is staffed by cancer survivors and certified mastectomy fitters. The staff goes out of their way to help with the many needs of women before, during and after treatment. “I receive the most wonderful letters from women who have been in the shop,” Tina added, “it’s so heart-warming to see the response. It makes me happy that I was able to help.”