By: Natalie J. Greene
HOUSTON — For Dr. Ashley LaRue, the memory of her grandmother, Pearline, is more than a reminder of someone she loved. It is the inspiration behind a new effort to educate, support and encourage families affected by breast cancer.
Pearline died from breast cancer in 2025. A year later, LaRue, a Houston-based therapist and television personality, brought her vision to life with the inaugural Pear’s Pink Promise Gala on Oct. 16 at the Omni Hotel.
Dressed in shades of pink, guests gathered for an evening that combined celebration with conversations about loss, survival and the importance of breast health.
The event recognized 15 honorees for their resilience and perseverance in the face of breast cancer.
One of the evening’s most personal moments came during a conversation between LaRue and music executive Mathew Knowles, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019.
Knowles’ diagnosis helped draw public attention to an often-overlooked reality: Men can develop breast cancer, too.
During the 30-minute fireside chat, Knowles recalled discovering blood on his shirt and recognizing that something was wrong. He sought medical attention, underwent testing and eventually learned he had breast cancer.
He also spoke about the emotional weight of sharing his diagnosis with family members and his determination to prioritize his health.
As audience members joined the conversation with questions of their own, the discussion became an opportunity to address fear, uncertainty and the importance of recognizing potential warning signs.
For women and men navigating breast cancer, such conversations can help challenge misconceptions and encourage people to seek medical guidance when they notice changes in their bodies.
“This experience has made me so proud, and my heart is filled with joy,” LaRue said.
She plans to expand Pear’s Pink Promise beyond the annual gala, creating additional opportunities for education, advocacy and support for people affected by breast cancer.
What began as a granddaughter’s tribute to her grandmother is now taking shape as a broader effort to keep conversations about breast cancer going long after October ends.
