PRESS RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA – August 12, 2024 – The Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation is excited to announce the finalization of its upcoming educational video series, set to be filmed on Saturday, September 7, 2024, in Philadelphia. This series, created in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, will feature a diverse array of participants, each sharing their unique experiences and insights related to breast cancer. The goal is to educate, inspire, and empower the community by offering multiple perspectives on topics such as early detection, self-examination, survivorship, and genetic testing.

The confirmed participants reflect the diversity of the breast cancer community, with individuals from different ethnic backgrounds, ages, and experiences. This inclusivity ensures that the videos resonate with a wide audience, offering varied perspectives and valuable information. The series will be produced in both English and Spanish to further broaden its reach and impact.

Featured Participants & Topics:

• Abby DeGuzman-Miller (Filipino; English & Tagalog): Discussing the importance of self-exams and how dense breast tissue can affect mammogram accuracy. Abby was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, Stage IIIa at age 45.
• Michelle Watson (African American): Sharing her story of family cancer history, the BRCA 1 gene, and the significance of early screening. Diagnosed at age 36 with Triple Negative Breast Cancer, Michelle emphasizes the importance of knowing your family history.
• Janique McGriff (Chinese, Puerto Rican, Jamaican): Highlighting the importance of self-advocacy in her journey with Stage IV Triple Negative Breast Cancer, diagnosed at age 29.
• Travis Douglas: (Virtual Participant from South Carolina): Offering his perspective on male breast cancer, Travis will discuss his experience and the importance of awareness among men.
• Kiana Wooten (African American): Discussing survivorship and her decision to remain flat after developing sepsis twice due to implants. Kiana was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, Stage I at age 34.
• Andrea Hans (English & French): Emphasizing early detection and the importance of knowing your body. Diagnosed at age 28 with ER/PR-negative breast cancer, Andrea will share her experiences with self-exams and working closely with her medical team.
• Agnieszka Pomarańska (Virtual Participant): Speaking on the importance of regular examinations and living life to the fullest after a cancer diagnosis. Agnieszka will share her story in both English and Polish.
• Raquel Fountain: Sharing how she discovered her own lump and the importance of advocating for oneself. Raquel was diagnosed with Stage II ER/PR+, HER2-negative breast cancer at age 34.
• Yahaira Morales-Diaz: Discussing how breast cancer can affect anyone, Yahaira was diagnosed with Stage II Triple Negative Breast Cancer at age 34.
• Melissa Rider: Focusing on the importance of genetic testing and self-advocacy, Melissa will share her experience of being diagnosed with Stage I ER/PR-positive breast cancer at age 39 and her journey with the CHEK2 gene mutation.
• Tanesha Patterson: Addressing the disparities in treatment for those diagnosed with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ), Tanesha will discuss the challenges faced by patients with non-invasive cancer.

“Each story is a testament to the resilience and strength of individuals facing breast cancer,” said Dr. Nia Imani Bailey, Founder and President of the Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation. “By sharing these diverse experiences, we aim to educate, inspire, and empower our community, fostering a deeper understanding and greater awareness of breast cancer.”

While all participant slots are now filled, the Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation welcomes community members and organizations interested in supporting this important initiative. For inquiries, please reach out to us via email at nia@byrdcancerfoundation.org. If you would like to support this project, donations can be made through paypal.me/byrdcancerfoundation 

For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or to learn more about the project, please contact:

Dr. Nia Imani Bailey
Founder | President
Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation
Email: Nia@byrdcancerfoundation.org