Real Talk About Breast Cancer

You may have heard in the news that younger women are being diagnosed with breast cancer at higher rates than before. While women under 40 only account for 4% of breast cancer cases in the U.S., even a modest rise in breast cancer incidence is a call to action for young women to understand their personal risk and to know what’s normal for their breasts so they can be aware of any changes that should be reported to a health care provider. Joining us on the show today is Dr. Virginia Borges, a medical oncologist at the University of Colorado, whose research focuses on young women’s breast cancer. Dr. Borges is committed to finding answers and today will share what is being studied, as well as how young women can be empowered to take charge of their breast health early.

How can you be a full-time mom to your children while also facing breast cancer? Can you do both? Today’s guests share how they navigated two demanding roles – mom and patient – at the same time. Young women face even greater challenges when diagnosed young with breast cancer, as many are also raising young kids. Jennie Smythe had a 2-year-old son and 7-year-old daughter when she was diagnosed, and Siana Bennett had a 1-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter when she was diagnosed. Both are joining me today to tell us their stories.

People with disabilities —especially women of color —face unique, often invisible, barriers when it comes to accessing breast health care. From physically inaccessible mammography machines to bias and misinformation among providers, the breast cancer experience can look vastly different for women with disabilities. In this powerful conversation, disability advocate Monique Stamps opens up about the systemic inequities faced by people with disabilities in the health care system. Drawing from her own lived experience and professional advocacy, Monique explores how we must move beyond compliance — beyond ramps and accessible doors — to build a truly inclusive breast health system that serves everybody.

When Inside Edition reporter, Alison Hall, was assigned to cover Olivia Munn’s breast cancer story, she agreed to use the same Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool that Munn used – and to do it onscreen. Not only was this part of her research for the story, but it would also help raise awareness. What she did not expect was that her risk score ultimately would lead to her own breast cancer diagnosis at the age of 32. Alison bravely shared the news of her diagnosis on national television and has since been transparent in documenting her thoughts and feelings along the way in hopes to help other women feel less alone.

Today, we're joined by Karen Powell, a nurse practitioner who not only supports patients through breast reconstruction—but has also walked the journey herself. After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Karen gained a new perspective on early detection, the emotional weight of treatment decisions, and the power of having a strong support system. In this episode, she shares how informed choices and personal stories can empower others facing a diagnosis.

Today, we’re joined by Sherry Easter, who shares her powerful and uplifting journey through breast cancer—from the moment of diagnosis to treatment and beyond. Sherry opens up about the lifestyle changes she embraced, the incredible support she received from loved ones, and how laughter became one of her greatest tools in healing. Her resilience and optimism shine as she offers heartfelt advice for others facing similar challenges.