Every Story Matters: Broadening Experiences, Inclusivity, Accessibility, & Equity in the Breast Cancer Conversation

Every Story Matters: Broadening Experiences, Inclusivity, Accessibility, & Equity in the Breast Cancer Conversation

October can feel different for all of us. Some of us wear pink to celebrate, some of us quietly observe, some feel grief, and some feel unseen or misunderstood. I want to remind each of you that every feeling is valid and should be acknowledged and honored.?

With this newsletter, I encourage open conversations and aim to create a brave space for everyone to share their experiences, seek and provide education, and learn how we can advocate for everyone in our community who is or knows someone fighting breast cancer.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, but early detection can make a significant difference in outcomes. I want to stress the importance of regular self-exams, knowing what’s normal for your body, and staying on top of routine mammograms as recommended by your healthcare provider. Early detection can save lives, and all women must have access to the information and resources needed to take proactive steps in their health journey.

The History of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month began in 1985 when the American Cancer Society partnered with Imperial Chemical Industries to launch a week-long campaign to raise awareness and gain funding for research toward a cure. This initiative extended to a month-long observance and officially became Breast Cancer Awareness Month in 1986, growing into the global movement we know today. In 1991, Charlotte Haley, a breast cancer fighter, created peach-colored ribbons to symbolize breast cancer awareness and support. The Susan G. Komen Foundation, a renowned organization supporting breast cancer awareness on multiple fronts, then popularized the renowned pink ribbon that has since become a universal emblem of solidarity, championing the collective effort to support our fellow community members who are battling breast cancer.

Inequality and Inaccessibility to Resources and Support

It’s essential to recognize that not every individual battling breast cancer has the same access to healthcare resources and support. Many of our fellow neighbors, colleagues, and loved ones encounter significant barriers, from delayed diagnoses to difficulty accessing high-quality treatments.?

Survivors face challenges at work—especially in the form of discrimination, lack of flexible work options, and insufficient workplace accommodations. All these factors combined make it increasingly difficult for women with breast cancer and their families to get the adequate care and education they need.

A Closer Look: Black Women and Breast Cancer

Among the women most impacted by these disparities are Black women, who face unique challenges in their fight against breast cancer. Despite having a lower incidence of breast cancer than white women, Black women are 40% more likely to die from the same disease—according to a recent study from the American Cancer Society . The study also found that Black women were also more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age and at a more advanced stage than White women.?

One significant challenge is the prevalence of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) among Black women. TNBC is an aggressive subtype that does not respond to hormonal therapies, making it more challenging to treat and leading to higher rates of recurrence and lower survival rates. According to the American Cancer Society , TBVC accounts for 10-15% of all breast cancers, a study from Frontiers in Public Health found Black women are almost three times more likely to be diagnosed with TNBC than white women. These recent findings spotlight a critical healthcare disparity in communities where increased support, research, and targeted interventions are desperately needed.

How You Can Help: Raising Awareness and Supporting Equity

Here are some ways you can get involved and make a difference in your community and beyond:

  • Participate in Local Fundraisers: Join or support local events that provide financial assistance and resources to breast cancer survivors.
  • Volunteer for Support Programs: Volunteer at organizations that provide counseling, transportation, and home care services to individuals with breast cancer.
  • Support Research and Clinical Trials: Contribute to research efforts that focus on understanding and addressing the specific challenges faced by Black women and other historically excluded groups in the fight against breast cancer.
  • Advocate for Policy Changes: Support community initiatives that improve healthcare opportunities and ensure equitable access to treatment and support for all breast cancer patients and survivors.

A Personal Reflection: Remembering Lindsay and My Role in the Living Strong Living Well Program

This month, I find myself thinking deeply about my best friend, Lindsay Best, who passed away from breast cancer less than a year after her diagnosis. Lindsay was happy and healthy—so we thought—and then she was gone. I miss her every single day. Her absence is a painful reminder of how sudden and cruel this disease can be, taking vibrant lives far too soon. I hold on to my love for her and the memories we shared, and I honor her by advocating for others who continue to fight this battle.

I’m also reminded of the incredible individuals I had the privilege to work with when I helped roll out the Living Strong Living Well program at Lifestyle Rx by Stanford Health Care’s ValleyCare arm. The Lifestyle Rx fitness-focused program was designed to help cancer survivors rebuild their strength and regain confidence in their bodies after treatment. But, it was more than just a fitness initiative; it was a lifeline for many. We created a supportive environment where participants could not only work on their physical recovery but also find a brave space to share their feelings, fears, and experiences—things they often found difficult to express to their families.

Being part of this program from the beginning, I witnessed how vital it was for survivors to have a community where they could connect with others who truly understood their journey. It was a place where they could find solace, encouragement, and a sense of normalcy amidst the challenges of recovery. The courage, resilience, and openness of these individuals continue to inspire my commitment to supporting all those fighting breast cancer.

In Closing

I urge you to reflect on the last time you checked in with someone in your community who is, or knows someone, dealing with the repercussions of breast cancer.?

When was the last time you asked how they were feeling or how you could be there to support them? We are only as strong as our community, and we must work together to foster understanding and inclusivity for all. Let’s stand together and champion our friends, neighbors, and colleagues so they aren’t alone in the fight against breast cancer.

Together, we can make a difference. Let’s honor those we’ve lost, like Lindsay, and continue to support the fighters, like the individuals in the Living Strong Living Well program at Lifestyle Rx, who inspire us with their resilience, honesty, and strength daily.

Recent announcements events Illy has attended/led:?

https://bloomerang.co/givecon/

Exciting News: Join Me at? GiveCon 2025!?

I'm thrilled to announce that I'll be presenting at the upcoming GiveCon in February 2025, the premier fundraising conference of the year! My session, "Unlocking Overlooked Potential: The Power of Inclusive Fundraising in Historically Excluded Communities," promises to be a game-changer for fundraisers looking to expand their reach and impact.

What to Expect:

  • Discover innovative strategies for inclusive fundraising
  • Learn how to tap into often-overlooked communities
  • Gain insights on breaking down barriers in philanthropy
  • Network with industry leaders and change makers

Why You Can't Miss This:

This presentation is just one of many cutting-edge sessions at? GiveCon 2025. You'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the latest best practices and trends in fundraising, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve in this ever-evolving field.

Save the Date: Tuesday, February 25 at 3:00-3:45 p.m. ET.

Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your fundraising approach and make a lasting impact in your community! It would also mean a lot if you could share this with anyone you know who will be attending this event.

Shoutouts/Testimonials (TBC)

A heartfelt shoutout to the incredible Elizabeth for launching the Sawubona Collective ! What an electrifying event that brought together a powerhouse of passionate individuals committed to creating real change in our communities. The energy in the room was palpable, fueled by Rev. Dr. Cassandra Gould 's inspiring keynote that left us all moved and motivated. Elizabeth's vision for Black empowerment in Santa Clara County through unity, permanence, and rejuvenation is both timely and crucial.?

The Sawubona Collective focuses on grassroots community organizing, sustainable futures, and shared resources. Elizabeth, your leadership and dedication to this mission is truly inspiring. Here's to the transformative journey ahead and the positive impact Sawubona Collective will undoubtedly make. Congratulations on this momentous launch—the future looks brighter already!?

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