Real Talk About Breast Cancer

Today we are speaking with a family who only knows life with breast cancer. With a strong family history of both breast cancer and BRCA gene mutations on the maternal side, everyone has always wondered “when”, not “if” breast cancer would affect them too. When Kathryn was diagnosed in her early 30’s like her mother was, it unveiled the difficulties of being diagnosed as a young woman. It also spurred a series of decisions by her two sisters, one of which is her twin. This is a story of support, empowerment, struggle, guilt and pain, but most of all, family. Today we welcome sisters Kathryn, Christine and Cara and their mom Vicki to the show to talk about experiences.

During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, breast cancer gets more attention and that is a great thing for fundraising, awareness and early detection. However, for those living with Metastatic Breast Cancer, this month can be hard – and sometimes feel triggering and isolating. The widespread focus is often on screenings and celebrating survivors living a life free from cancer, which is not the reality for those with metastatic disease. Today, on MBC Awareness Day, we are excited to welcome Ashley Fernendez back to the show to talk about her lived experiences, how she seeks support and what she wants people to know about living with Metastatic Breast Cancer.

This podcast is brought to you by Nature’s Bounty. With a long-standing commitment to supporting women’s health and wellness, Nature’s Bounty is proud to partner with Susan G. Komen in the fight to end breast cancer. As we kick off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with eyes and ears on the breast cancer community, we are highlighting one of our passionate Komen donors to talk about why she chooses to support Susan G. Komen. Robin Eggert Elm is a long time 3-day supporter. She first started walking with her mom and sister in 2002 and now walks yearly with an ever-growing team of family and friends. Robin has spent more than 20 years in the health care industry and has worked with more than 100 mission-driven, not-for-profit organizations, including health systems,and service providers, senior housing and Catholic women religious congregations. Robin is truly passionate about walking as long as she can to continue fighting for a cure. Today, she’s here to tell us about why she chooses to partner with Komen in this fight.

Breast cancer affects everyone differently. African American and Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women. Biology and genes are driving factors, but we cannot overlook the fears and concerns women in these communities have when it comes to seeking medical care. Mistrust, bad experiences and deep-rooted bias are all standing in the way of saving more lives from breast cancer. Today, we’re joined by Jessica Williams, a leading and powerful voice in the Black community in South Florida. And Gil Zepeda, the Development Manager of Susan G. Komen in Florida. Jessica and Gil just took part in an event that brough mobile mammography to an underserved neighborhood in South Florida.

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we reflect not only on cultural pride but also on the urgent health challenges facing the Latino community. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Latinas, and yet barriers such as language, limited access to care and cultural stigma often prevent women from receiving the support they need. In this episode of Real Pink, we’re joined by Dr. Laura Logie of Nueva Vida, a trusted partner of Susan G. Komen® and a member of the ShareForCures® Alliance. Together, we’ll explore how culturally responsive care can transform the breast cancer experience, break down barriers and ensure that Latinas feel seen, heard and supported every step of the way.

Naomi’s story is a powerful reminder of how something as simple as a routine mammogram—and even a scheduling mix-up—can change the course of your life. In this conversation, she opens up about her breast cancer journey, the impact it’s had on her career, her family, and her outlook on life, and why she’s passionate about encouraging others to take that potentially life-saving 15 minutes to get screened.