About Us

Sonia T Ray, President

 Sonia T. Ray is a two-time breast cancer survivor. In 2011, at the age of 34, she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. In 2018, she experienced a recurrence—stage 4, with no cure. She has undergone eight surgeries, including a double mastectomy, as well as chemotherapy and radiation. After this 14-year journey, she is looking forward to living life to the fullest and fulfilling her God-given destiny.

Mrs. Sonia T. Ray is first and foremost a dedicated and caring wife and mother. She was a homeschool mom to her two sons. Her family is her pride and joy and the reason she has fought so hard through her cancer journey.

During her cancer journey, Sonia discovered that her purpose in life is to help and encourage those coming behind her on the breast cancer journey. Along with a group of fellow “pink sisters,” Sonia co-founded a breast cancer support group called Harbor of Hope Inc. on the south side of Atlanta, where resources are limited. The purpose of the organization is to help women physically, financially, emotionally, and spiritually. Sonia currently serves as the president of Harbor of Hope Inc.

Further expanding her desire to help others, Sonia volunteers with several nonprofit organizations. These include Network of Hope, where she mentors and serves newly diagnosed patients, and the Southern Latin District Women’s Ministry (SLD). The SLD ministers to women in local churches throughout the southeastern United States. Sonia is also part of the Cancer Fighters program at City of Hope.

Moreover, Sonia T. Ray is a published author. Her book, My Testimony: A Journey of Divine Healing, is a deeply authentic memoir of her breast cancer journey. She shares her faith in God through the highs and lows of cancer with raw honesty, aiming to encourage others to embrace faith and remain resilient through their own journeys.

Sonia T. Ray is a sought-after speaker at conferences, retreats, and special events. She is a strong advocate and an inspiring voice for women navigating difficult times.

Mrs. Ray earned her undergraduate degree from Clayton State University in Georgia, majoring in Business Administration with a minor in Accounting. She also pursued her minister’s certification through the Southern Latin District of the Assemblies of God.

She believes that with God, the best is yet to come, and her life verse is Genesis 50:20.

*Hablo espanol. 

Laura Alvarez, Vice-President

I have been a breast cancer survivor twice, in 2016 and 2020. Harbor of Hope has been an integral part of my understanding of cancer and healing; therefore, I am grateful for the opportunity to assist those in need through Harbor of Hope, Inc. I am married and have two amazing children, and I understand deeply how cancer affects both individuals and their loved ones.

I graduated from the University of Georgia and hold a Master of Arts in Teaching Spanish from New Mexico State University, as well as a Specialist Degree in Education from Valdosta State University. My passion for language and music has led me to teach for more than twenty years in ESOL, Spanish, and piano. I currently teach at the high school level within a supportive and loving community that has also helped me cope with cancer. I enjoy traveling with my students, their parents, and friends.

I believe in prayer and in a loving God beyond our understanding. Psalm 23 has become a part of my spirit, especially as I prayed it while recovering from surgeries and during 33 rounds of radiation. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

*Hablo español.

Debi Kirkland, Secretary

I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Human Resources from Mercer University and am presently employed full-time with the State of Georgia. I have a son, Garrett, and daughter, Shea, who are everything to me. We enjoy spending time together with our extended family, as family is important to us.

I am a breast cancer survivor. I was diagnosed with Stage 1 HR+ breast cancer in June 2013. I immediately began researching and talked to different women who had been diagnosed with different types of breast cancer and treatment. One of the best decisions I ever made was to attend a Harbor of Hope, Inc. breast cancer support group meeting before my mastectomy in 2013. The ladies shared their journeys and gave me hope and their encouragement and prayers gave me peace. Teresa, at that time, and Sonia were there to pray with me before and after surgery and through chemo. I would not have met these wonderful and caring ladies if I had not been diagnosed with breast cancer. I am so grateful to have them in my life and want to give back to the group of ladies who have given so much spiritual encouragement to me as well as my family. I am also grateful for my gifted surgeons, Dr. Timbert and Dr. Larsen, and my oncologist Dr. Sidhu. I was also blessed beyond measure by my family, friends, coworkers, and church family while undergoing surgery and chemo. Even though I was diagnosed nine years ago, I still enjoy playing a part in the Harbor of Hope breast cancer support group meetings, so that I can offer hope and encouragement to ladies whose journeys are just beginning.

My two favorite verses that helped me through my cancer journey are 

Phil. 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” and

4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus”.

Shirley Johnson, Treasurer

I have been a breast cancer survivor since 2012. I am employed as the Finance Administrator for the Parking Operation at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. As a single mother of a beautiful daughter, I enjoy family and beach time, and shopping.

Since my cancer journey, it is my pleasure to serve on the Harbor of Hope, Inc. board, as well as encourage other ladies diagnosed with cancer. My favorite scripture is Luke 1:37: “For with God nothing shall be impossible.” I am a faithful member and servant at Victory Tabernacle Church International in McDonough, GA.

Nancy Eckhardt, Board Member

I have been a breast cancer survivor since 2020. I had a single mastectomy with reconstruction and did not need chemotherapy or radiation. During this time, I had support from my family, friends, and my Glen Haven Baptist Church family. Dr. Jane Woo was the best, and her staff was amazing.

A church member told me about Harbor of Hope. However, due to COVID, there were no meetings, and I had to depend on my doctor’s staff to answer my questions. That was not enough for me, so as soon as Harbor of Hope opened back up, I attended a meeting. The ladies made me feel very welcome and took time to answer my questions. I quickly found that many people had stories just like mine. The testimonies from survivors gave me hope, encouragement, and spiritual guidance in my walk with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

I have been in the medical field for 27 years, and it is my heart’s desire to help others. I volunteer regularly at my church and also wanted to help with Harbor of Hope. They are part of the reason I am here today. I was so honored when they asked me to serve on the board. Now I share my testimony and journey with many other women, hoping to be an encouragement to those who have been diagnosed with cancer.

I am newly married to my longtime sweetheart, Tim Eckhardt of Griffin, Georgia. We enjoy traveling whenever we get the opportunity. My life verses are Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me,” and Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am God. I will strengthen you and help you; surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

Vicky Batten, Board Member

I was 46 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011.  I did chemo, surgery, and radiation. With the help of my loving family, friends, and my church Glen Haven Baptist I was able to overcome many hard days.  My awesome breast doctor, Dr. Timbert, my chemo doctor, Dr. Sidhu, and their office staff helped me beat breast cancer!  In 2016, I was diagnosed with colon cancer.  Again, with the support of my family, friends, and church I’m proud to say that I’m a survivor of that cancer as well.  I am also in a very amazing support group, Harbor of Hope, Inc.  I was chosen to be the Face of Hope in 2014 to represent this group of ladies going through breast cancer. I also volunteer in our boutique that offers wigs, hats, scarves, bras, and prosthesis.  All of these are free for women diagnosed with cancer.  We also take donations to help our boutique in giving back to the community. I am truly blessed to have such an incredible support system and a great way to help others with volunteering at the boutique.