If you or someone you love is navigating metastatic breast cancer, this episode of Your Voice. Your Health is a must-listen. Abigail Johnston, a metastatic breast cancer advocate and legal expert, shares powerful strategies to overcome the life-threatening delays caused by step therapy policies. Known as "fail first," step therapy can block access to critical care for stage 4 patients—when every minute counts. Abigail offers actionable advice to help patients break through these barriers, which can lead to financial strain, unnecessary side effects, and delays that jeopardize both quality of life and survival. Special thanks to Amgen for making this episode possible!

In this third episode of Empowered Intimacy: Getting Your Sexy Back After Breast Cancer, join Melissa and her dear friend and co-host Deltra as they explore the realities of dating after a breast cancer diagnosis.  Building on their previous discussion about navigating intimacy in marriages, the duo reflects on their personal journeys through divorce and re-entering the dating scene. Melissa and Deltra share their experiences of meeting new people, highlighting both the uplifting moments and the challenges they faced along the way. They provide insightful tips on identifying red flags in potential partners and offer advice on what to seek in a supportive relationship. Tune in for an empowering conversation to help you embrace the world of dating after a breast cancer diagnosis with confidence and clarity. Thank you to Daiichi-Sankyo and AstraZeneca for making this episode possible!  

If you’re a breast cancer patient or survivor facing challenges with intimacy and sexual pleasure, or if you’re curious about how vibrators can help you feel sexy again, this episode is for you! I’m excited to introduce my new friend Shay Martin, President and Owner of Vibratex. As a breast cancer survivor, Shay shares how her experiences shape her innovative approach to intimacy. We explore her role in creating iconic products like the ‘rabbit’ vibrator and the Magic Wand, which have transformed the sexual wellness landscape. Shay also offers valuable tips for reconnecting with your body and partners after cancer. Join us for an inspiring conversation that emphasizes the importance of intimacy as a vital aspect of wellness—reminding you that you deserve pleasure and connection in your life no matter what you’re going through!

In this episode of Dear Cancer, I’m Beautiful, we continue with a special series close to my heart: Decoding Destiny: Navigating Breast Cancer with Genetic Insight. I’m thrilled to be joined by Sue Friedman, Founder and Executive Director of FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered). Sue’s journey with hereditary breast cancer, combined with her tireless advocacy, has made her a powerful voice in the world of hereditary cancer support. In this episode, we explore her personal story, the incredible work she's doing through FORCE, and the essential role advocacy plays in navigating the complexities of hereditary cancer. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about empowerment, support, and the importance of understanding your genetic risks. Thank you to AstraZeneca and Merck for making this episode possible!  

In the second episode of "Empowered Intimacy: Getting Your Sexy Back After Breast Cancer," Melissa Berry and Deltra take a deep dive into the difficult challenges they faced in their marriages after their breast cancer diagnoses. They explore how to navigate intimacy, reflecting on their biggest struggles and breakthroughs. Join them as they share personal stories and offer valuable advice for those seeking to rekindle intimacy with their partners after a breast cancer diagnosis. Thank you to our sponsors, Daiichi, AstraZeneca, and Lilly, for making this series possible.  

I’m thrilled to introduce Dr. Elizabeth Comen, a leading breast oncologist and USA Today bestselling author of “All In Her Head.” Dr. Comen is passionate about empowering patients to advocate for themselves throughout their breast cancer journey. In this episode, we discuss the complexities of breast cancer care, and how to talk to your doctor during breast cancer treatment to get the care you need and deserve. Join us as Dr. Comen shares valuable insights to help you navigate your experience and ensure the best possible outcomes for your health.

In the debut episode of "Empowered Intimacy: Getting Your Sexy Back After Breast Cancer," hosts Melissa Berry and Deltra share their personal breast cancer journeys, discussing their lumpectomies, reconstruction surgeries, and the emotional challenges of hair loss and scarring.  This candid conversation covers the deeply personal steps they've taken to rebuild their self-esteem and embrace their new bodies. Melissa and Deltra explore how to love yourself again after the physical and emotional changes, offering practical advice on boosting confidence and reclaiming your groove.  Tune in as they reveal the importance of accepting and celebrating your new self before fully embracing intimacy, setting the stage for a powerful series ahead. Thank you to  Daiichi-Sankyo, AstraZeneca and Lilly for making this episode possible!  

In this deeply moving episode of "Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful," I sit down with Dr. Liz O'Riordan, a former breast surgeon who has faced breast cancer three times and emerged as a powerful voice in the community. Dr. O'Riordan shares her personal battle with depression during her cancer treatment, a struggle that many patients face but few openly discuss. Learn how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) became a beacon of hope in her darkest hours. Dr. O'Riordan explains how CBT provided her with the tools to manage her fears, process her emotions, and ultimately reclaim her life. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of mental health support for those battling cancer. This episode sheds light on the mental health challenges of breast cancer and offers valuable insights for those facing similar struggles.  

In this episode of the new series "Decoding Destiny: Navigating Breast Cancer with Genetic Insight," host Melissa Berry and her mother share a heartfelt conversation on the profound impact of genetic testing. From the decision to undergo BRCA testing to the discovery that both Melissa and her brother Matt carry the BRCA gene, they explore the power of knowledge, the strength of family, and the vital role of early intervention. This episode underscores the importance of proactive healthcare and family support in navigating life-changing decisions. Thank you to Merck and AstraZeneca for making this episode possible!

Welcome to another episode of “Your Voice. Your Health.” In this enlightening discussion, host Melissa Berry is joined by Dr. Rishi Garg, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Loyola University Medical Center and Medical Director of Financial Clearance. Dr. Garg delves into the challenges of step therapy, including how automated decisions can impact cancer patients and why it's so critical to persist despite initial denials. Together, they explore common reasons for step therapy denials, strategies for successful appeals, and the vital role of healthcare providers in supporting patients. Additionally, Dr. Garg will share inspiring success stories and discuss ongoing legislative efforts to reform step therapy practices. Tune in to learn how to advocate effectively for yourself and navigate these healthcare hurdles with confidence. Thank you to Amgen for making this episode possible!  

You’re going to love my amazing new friend Stephanie Germino, a passionate advocate for body positivity and the driving force behind the 'Boobless Babe' movement. At 27, Stephanie discovered she was BRCA positive, and at 28, she chose a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy with an aesthetic flat closure. This decision transformed her confidence and redefined her perspective on beauty. Join us for a powerful conversation about Stephanie's journey of empowerment and resilience, and how she now helps others embrace their bodies post-mastectomy. Discover how Stephanie feels more beautiful, sexier, and confident than ever before!

Welcome to another episode of "Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful," part of the "Your Voice. Your Health." series. In this episode, I'm so honored to have Andrea Hans as my guest today - a breast cancer survivor, and passionate advocate for the Safe Step Act. Andrea will guide us through what this legislation entails, why it's crucial for cancer patients, and how its passage could significantly improve outcomes by addressing step therapy barriers. Join us for an insightful discussion that highlights the importance of advocacy in healthcare. Thank you to Amgen for making this series possible!

You’re going to love my amazing friend, Caryn Sullivan, founder of Pretty Wellness and a Stage IV TNBC thriver. Caryn shares her inspiring story, from her initial cancer diagnosis 20 years ago to how a later stage 4 diagnosis transformed her life. Initially focused on her corporate career, Caryn's journey led her to prioritize wellness and self-care. Discover how her focus has evolved towards a life centered on well-being and learn her top 5 wellness tips for looking and feeling beautiful from the inside out. Don't miss this episode as Caryn reflects on her cancer journey and its profound impact on her lifestyle—and how it can positively impact yours!  

Welcome to another episode of, "Your Voice. Your Health," a special series dedicated to empowering patients and caregivers as they navigate the complexities of step therapy. Today we delve into the transformative world of personalized medicine and its potential to enhance your current treatment plans.  Join us as we sit down with Cynthia A. Bens, Senior Vice President of Public Policy at the Personalized Medicine Coalition. Cynthia shares her invaluable insights on how personalized medicine is revolutionizing healthcare and offers practical advice on leveraging it for the best possible outcomes. Plus, learn about the groundbreaking policy work Cynthia and PMC are championing to support the adoption of personalized medicine. Tune in and discover how personalized medicine can be the upgrade your healthcare journey needs!  

Welcome to another episode of the "Your. Voice. Your Health." podcast series, where we amplify the voices of experts and advocates in the realm of step therapy and utilization management. In this episode, we delve into the complexities of patient advocacy and learn about precision medicine. Our guest, Daneen Sekoni, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Cancer Support Community, shares some invaluable insights about overcoming healthcare obstacles. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion that promises to empower patients and caregivers alike in their healthcare journey!  

If you’re a breast cancer patient or caregiver seeking a one-stop-shopping resource, then look no further! Meet my friend Virginia Carnesale, founder and CEO of Stage. After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, Virginia realized there was a significant lack of products designed to help cancer patients look and feel their best.  In 2022, she launched ShopStage.co, a mission-driven marketplace offering everything from expert interviews to stylish, treatment-tested products. On ShopStage.co, you can find all kinds of breast cancer-related fashion, beauty, and lifestyle solutions all in one place.  Join us as we dive into Virginia's inspiring story, explore the why behind her mission, discover how she finds and tests the products, and learn which ones are her favorites!  

On National Clinical Trials Day, we're joined by my dear friend Ricki Fairley. She’s the founder of Touch, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, and a 13-year triple-negative breast cancer survivor.  Ricki shares her journey, highlighting disparities faced by Black women in breast cancer care. We discuss the vital need for inclusivity in clinical trials, stressing their importance for everyone.  

As part of my special podcast series, “Your Voice. Your Health.” focusing on step therapy, we're joined by Maxine Miller, a dedicated advocate and Coordinator of Policy & Advocacy at Cancer Support Community.  With a strong commitment to championing equity and access in healthcare, economics, and society, Maxine shares some advocacy efforts as well as groundbreaking research shedding light on the detrimental effects of step therapy protocols on patient health and well-being. Thank you to my sponsors Amgen, Merck and Daiichi-Sankyo for making this episode possible!  

In this episode of "Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful,”  I have the pleasure of introducing you to Y, the compassionate force behind the Women's Hair Loss Project. Join us as Y shares her personal journey through hair loss, shedding light on all of the emotional complexities that come with it.  With 17 years of dedication to empowering women, Y offers invaluable insights into reclaiming femininity and confidence despite the challenges of hair loss.  From practical advice on wig shopping to profound reflections on self-acceptance, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating similar experiences. Tune in as we celebrate beauty in and honor the resilience of the human spirit.  

Meet my new friend Ali, the founder of Lost and Found Tattoo in Cranford, NJ. In this episode of "Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful,” we’re going to delve into Ali's journey as a tattoo artist specializing in both illustrative designs as well as nipple and areola tattooing for breast cancer survivors. Join us as we uncover Ali's passion for empowering women through her art and gain valuable insights into finding inspiration for meaningful tattoo designs. Whether you're considering a nipple tattoo or seeking a meaningful post-mastectomy design, Ali's expertise and compassion shine through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone who’s considering either option.  

Join me and Dr. David Charles, Chief Medical Officer of the Alliance for Patient Access and a distinguished neurologist, for a dynamic discussion. In this episode, Dr. Charles sheds light on step therapy, fail-first protocols, and care pathways, revealing their impact on patient care. Explore how the Alliance champions patient education and advocates for healthcare policy improvements. Tune in to delve into the intersection of patient advocacy and healthcare reform with Dr. Charles and the Alliance. Thank you to Amgen, Merck and Daiichi Sankyo for making this episode possible!

Join me and my incredible friend, celebrity hairstylist Chelsey, for an intimate conversation about navigating life with metastatic breast cancer. Discover her powerful journey of resilience, creativity, and finding purpose beyond the salon chair. This episode offers inspiring insights into living life to the fullest, despite the challenges we face. Tune in for a heartfelt exploration of courage, community, and embracing every moment.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Amy, cancer survivor and creator of the Cancer Freedom Program. With over 13 years of clinical experience, Dr. Amy shares practical strategies for coping with weight gain and exhaustion post-cancer diagnosis. Discover evidence-based approaches to reclaiming energy and vitality as Dr. Amy dispels common myths and offers empowering insights. Tune in for actionable tips on navigating life beyond cancer with hope and resilience.

Meet my new friend Alan Balch! Alan is the CEO of Patient Advocate Foundation and National Patient Advocate Foundation which provides patient services, eliminating obstacles in access to quality healthcare.    Alan has over 20 years of executive leadership in the non-profit sector spanning multiple advocacy areas including access and affordability, health equity, prevention and early detection, and cancer research. As part of my special podcast series, “Your Voice. Your Health.” focusing on step therapy, today we’re going to take a deep dive into policy perpsectives and advocating for change. We’re also going to learn Alan’s “why” behind his mission.  Thank you Amgen Oncology and Merck for making this episode possible!  

I’m so excited to have my dear friend and TNBC sister, Chance Osborne here with us today. We met through our advocacy work and I smile every time I hear her name - and now you will too! At the young age of 24, Chance received a stage 2 triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis, all while carrying the weight of a family history of cancer and the BRCA1 gene mutation. This aggressive form of breast cancer presented her with daunting challenges, from enduring the grueling side effects of chemotherapy to navigating unexpected complications during her recovery from a double mastectomy. Despite the hurdles, Chance's spirit remains unwavering. She’s a force in our community and a shining example of advocating for yourself - and why you should NEVER accept the words, “You’re too young for breast cancer." Join us as we delve into Chance's breast cancer experience, share the power of not taking “no” for an answer, managing that fine line between fear and empowerment, as well as some advocacy tips that she learned along the way.

Join me in this special episode as I mark my 11-year cancerversary by reflecting on the twists and turns of my journey, and how it's shaped my beauty and fashion routines.   I'll open up about the emotional and physical challenges I've faced, from diagnosis to treatment, and share the lessons I've learned along the way. Through it all, resilience and positivity have been my guiding lights.   I'll discuss the adjustments I've made to my beauty routines due to treatment, and how I've found beauty and confidence during tough times. It's been a journey of growth and self-discovery, with each moment shaping my perspective on beauty inside and out.   This episode is a celebration of resilience, reflection, and the power of finding beauty in every step of the journey.    Join me as I embrace 11 years of strength and self-love, and look forward to the road ahead.  

Introducing my dear friend and TNBC sister, Lorelei Colbert. We met through our advocacy work with the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation and her beautiful glow and energy are absolutely infectious!   At the young age of 28, Lorelei was diagnosed with TNBC, a direct result of going for a very routine doctor visit for a physical so she and her husband could move abroad on military orders. Her inquiry about birth control led to a breast exam that would change her entire life.   Join us as we explore Lorelei's narrative, a powerful testament to self-advocacy, overcoming a TNBC diagnosis, confronting fertility obstacles, and ultimately embracing motherhood!

Meet my new friend Leslie Yerger! Leslie is the Founder and CEO of My Density Matters, which empowers people to find out their breast density, learn their screening options, and insist on essential additional screening. Today happens to be the annual, “Find Out My Breast Density Day,” so what a perfect time to learn what breast density is, and the importance of knowing your breast density - whether you’ve had breast cancer or not. We’re also going to hear Leslie’s incredible story, her “why” behind her mission as well as tools and resources to support all of you in knowing your own breast density.

Meet one of my dearest friends, Katrina M. Johnson! Katrina is the US Director of Advocacy & Professional Relations for Pfizer Oncology as well as a three-time breast and two-time melanoma cancer survivor. Katrina and I met through our advocacy work but I feel like I’ve known Katrina FOREVER and I’m sure you will too!  Katrina is also a triple negative breast cancer survivor and the Mom of 2 amazing young adults. We talk about everything. Recently we've had some very real and emotional conversations about relationships. Dating. Divorce. Working out. Eating healthy. We realized that all of these things all boil down to one thing - loving and caring for yourself. Today we’re going to talk about REALLY loving yourself after a breast cancer diagnosis. What better day to talk about loving ourselves than on Valentine’s Day?!

Introducing my wonderful friend and fellow TNBC sister, Tiffany Clifton-Reed! Tiffany is not only a courageous breast cancer thriver and advocate, but also brings extensive experience as an authorization coordinator. I invited Tiffany to be a guest on this episode of "Your Voice. Your Health." to discuss step therapy through the lense of her invaluable perspective. With her dual background as a breast cancer survivor and a professional in the prior authorization field, Tiffany shares her insights and offers practical tips on navigating step therapy challenges. Thank you to Amgen and Merck for making this episode possible!

You won’t want to miss this episode! Meet my new friend Irene Benson, the Chief Development Officer of the, “Know Your Lemons Foundation.” Irene is obsessed with saving lives from breast cancer through creative education that leads to early detection. She’s got an award-winning app, is responsible for self-breast exam educational campaign materials in 34 languages, and is the lead on a global educator program with over 800 educators teaching breast health in over 60 countries.  Tune in to learn her “why” behind her mission, how her app works and how you and your loved ones can master and understand the importance of the self-breast exam…and how easy and critical it is to work into your self-care routine!

Introducing my dear friend Ramy! He’s a celebrity makeup artist, Founder of Ramy Cosmetics, cancer survivor and eyebrow MASTER! Ramy has worked with major celebs including Taylor Swift and Rihanna. He opened his New York City salon in 2004, and has since launched his own brand of cosmetics. His gift for eyebrow shaping has been featured in the pages of top magazines, including Vogue, Allure, InStyle, Lucky, and People, as well as major TV shows including the Today Show and Rachael Ray. If you’re freaking out about losing your lashes and brows, you’ve come to the right place! Tune in to hear his incredible story as well as some amazing tips, tricks and product suggestions to help with your lash and brow loss.

Dr. Monique Gary aka  “Dr. Mo” is a breast surgeon, educator, entrepreneur, media personality, farmer, and philanthropist. Dr. Mo currently serves as the Medical Director of the Grand View Health/Penn Cancer Network cancer program, where she also serves as director of the breast program. Tune in for this important conversation to learn about her career path, as well as the “golden nuggets” and most important takeaways from the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, otherwise known as SABCS.

Join us for the latest installment of the, "Your Voice. Your Health." series as we delve into crucial insights with Courtney Savage, the visionary behind Savage Health Policy. In this episode, Courtney sheds light on step therapy, navigates the appeals process, and teaches us why it’s so important to really understand your health insurance policy. Tune in to discover the power of partnering with your doctor to overcome step therapy barriers!

Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode about advocacy with Matthew Zachary. He’s a well-known health advocate who’s passionate about putting the patient at the center of every conversation. Why? Because he is one. Diagnosed as a college senior with brain cancer 27 years ago, Matthew wasn't sure he'd make his next birthday. He’s a Founding Advisor to Google Health, Founder of the award-winning nonprofit, Stupid Cancer, Co-Founder and Chair of OffScrip Health, host of Out of Patients with Matthew Zachary, and the Executive Producer of the award-winning documentary, “The Cancer Mavericks. Tune in for this very real and honest conversation about advocacy, the importance of community , the burden of advocating for yourself, and what that really means to a cancer patient who never knew anything about advocacy before their diagnosis.

I’m so happy to have my new friend Rosie Mangiarotti on the show! Rosie is the Founder & CEO of Perkies, a truly innovative undergarment brand that was born in a college course while she was attending Brown. Perkies offers up several amazing products which help so many of us in the breast cancer community feel beautiful and confident. Perkies Petals - one of my personal faves - is a premium, reusable nipple cover that comes in three shades of nude, and has been touted by  InStyle as the "Best Nipple Covers on Amazon!" Tune in to hear Rosie’s story, her “why” behind helping women with breast cancer, which of her products may be best for you depending upon where you are in your breast cancer journey.

I'm so excited to have my amazing friend Dr. Alexea back on the show! She's a board certified internist, breast cancer thriver and a true beacon of light in our community. This episode is part of my special series, “Your Voice, Your Health.” and is designed to teach us all about step therapy.  Dr. Alexea shares her honest and first hand experience with step therapy as both a physician and a breast cancer survivor, as well as tactical ways to overcome these very frustrating obstacles. Thank you to Amgen and Merck for making this episode possible!

Meet my dear friend Tracy Posner, an amazing previvor and founder of BRCA Strong. This unique non-profit organization offers education, information, support and advocacy for women who are uninsured or under-insured, by women who truly care. BRCA Strong is one-stop shopping! From pre-mastectomy care packages, gynecological care packages and post-mastectomy garments to prosthetics and other treatment necessities — all of this is provided at zero cost to the recipient! Tune in to this very special episode to hear Tracy’s story, and learn how you or someone you love can gain access to her beautiful and free resources.   

Introducing my new friend, Claire L Paxman, who serves as the Brand Ambassador & Director of Global Training for Paxman Scalp Cooling. Listen to the amazing story about her mother’s chemotherapy-induced hair loss andhow it paved her path to her current position at Paxman Scalp Cooling. Claire is truly on a mission to help us preserve our hair and tells us everything we ever wanted to know about cold capping. What it is, how it works, if you’re a good candidate for it and so much more. Do not miss this episode!

This episode is part of my special series, “Your Voice, Your Health and is designed to teach us all about step therapy.  Joanna Doran is a cancer rights attorney, author, speaker, and CEO of Triage Cancer, a national, nonprofit organization providing free education on practical and legal issues that may impact individuals coping with cancer and their caregivers. Joanna has spent nearly thirty years working on behalf of individuals with cancer and co-authored a book called Cancer Rights Law for the American Bar Association. Tune in to learn how to identify step therapy hurdles, the appeals process - and how to educate your healthcare provider to do the same!

Beth Fairchild is an artist, metastatic breast cancer thriver, advocate and founder of a new non-profit called Cancer Culture. This patient-led non-profit organization is designed  to sound the alarm about the growing public health concern that is breast cancer. #CancerCulture uses art and storytelling to raise awareness, provoke and inspire change by bringing a hopeful view to the community and shining a light on the realities of the disease, all while creating a sense of community among patients, building bridges between those with early and late stage disease, and helping to fund life-saving metastatic breast cancer research. Tune in to hear Beth’s story and her “why” behind Cancer Culture!

I’m so excited to have my good friend Rachel Beller back on the show! Rachel is the author of several books including her latest one called, “Spice Rack.” She explains the benefits of the Beller Nutrition approach, offers up expert advice about maintaining a healthy weight during and post-treatment, and the easiest ways to incorporate the Beller methodology into our meals each day.

I’m so happy to welcome back my dear friend AND my very own breast oncologist, Dr. Eleonora Teplinksy. Tune in to learn about Dr. Teplinksy's expertise, as well as explore strategies for effectively navigating genetic testing and breast cancer screening for our daughters. This subject holds great personal significance for me, given that I have two young adult daughters with an elevated risk of breast cancer due to our extensive family history. Dr. Teplinksy guides us in forging a collaborative approach with our daughters, emphasizing prevention and empowering us with knowledge about risk factors and proactive measures to help safeguard them from developing breast cancer.

This was one episode I never expected to record. My beautiful mother Barbara is one of the sweetest, caring people you’ll ever meet. She saved my life by encouraging me to get a BRCA test and continues to be a true advocate for our entire family and for everyone she meets. A few months ago, and 17 years after her initial breast cancer diagnosis, she was faced with a very difficult decision to make about her own health. Just when I thought I couldn’t possibly be more proud of her. Do not miss this episode. Thank you Mom for being such an incredible example of self care, hope and resilience!

Introducing a brand new Dear Cancer, I'm Beautiful podcast series called, "Your Voice. Your Health!” The first episode of this series titled, "What is Step Therapy and How Does it Affect Cancer Patients?” will provide you with comprehensive information about step therapy and its implications on your treatment choices and outcomes. I didn't even know what step therapy was until recently. These "fail first" policies have become way too common in healthcare insurance plans. They require us to try less expensive medications or treatments before gaining access to the ones that our healthcare providers really want us to have.  I'm so honored to have Dr. Keith Crawford back again to help me kick off this series that will empower you and provide you with valuable tips so you can have the necessary conversations with your doctors to ensure you're getting the care that they really want you to have without having to waste precious time or jump through unnecessary hoops.  Thank you Amgen Oncology for making this special series possible!

I’m so thrilled to introduce you to my new friend, Katherine Mason. She is an incredible artist and founder of Painted With Lipstick. Tune into this episode to hear Katherine's story, as she was a tremendous source of love and support for a friend of hers who was undergoing breast cancer treatment. Together, they discovered the power of lipstick and how it played a special part in her friend’s healing process.

Meet my friend Hayley Brown, Director of Partnerships and Programs for TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance. Hayley is also the daughter of the Foundation’s founder, Ricki Fairley. Hayley is the driving force behind their special program, “For The Love Of My Gurls. We’re going to hear Hayley’s story, why she’s so passionate about breast cancer advocacy and challenges that she’s currently facing as she tries to navigate her own breast health and screening. Most importantly, she shares some very valuable insights and tools that help us get the screening that we deserve, regardless of age or race.

If you don’t know her already, please meet my friend Rachel Burns. Rachel is a pop-soul-cabaret-satire singer/songwriter and a breast cancer survivor dedicated to using her voice and platform to raise awareness of the realities of the disease while creating a sense of community among patients. We’re going to learn how singing can actually be therapeutic, how Rachel uses her music to advocate for breast cancer, the upcoming Cancer Culture fashion shows and her Living My Breast Life fundraiser concert!