C We Do Have A Voice

In this episode of Shellie Turner speaks with guest Paris Smith, a survivor of both multiple sclerosis and triple negative breast cancer. Paris shares her formidable journey through diagnosis, treatment, and the personal growth and advocacy that ensued. From waking up with severe vision loss leading to her MS diagnosis to the discovery and aggressive treatment of her breast cancer, Paris's story is one of faith, resilience, and self-advocacy. She emphasizes the importance of understanding one's body, the power of education, and the need to advocate for oneself within the healthcare system. Despite the challenges, including treatment failures and surgery, Paris remains positive, attributing her strength and survival to her faith in God. The conversation underscores the disparities in healthcare and the unique battles individuals face, advocating for greater awareness and support for those enduring similar challenges.Connect with Paris: @beautifulwithms 00:00 Welcome to Our Journey: Understanding Breast Cancer01:37 Paris's Story: Surviving Multiple Sclerosis and Breast Cancer04:44 The Diagnosis Journey: From MS to Breast Cancer14:07 Navigating Healthcare: The Importance of Being Informed and Advocated25:08 Understanding Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Paris's Treatment and Insights27:38 A Journey Through Cancer Treatment28:33 The Power of Self-Education and Advocacy28:55 Exploring Alternative Perspectives on Treatment29:32 Addressing Racism in Oncology30:04 Personal Stories of Cancer and Resilience33:39 The Impact of Cancer on Identity and Body Image38:00 Finding Strength and Advocacy Through Faith38:47 Sharing Stories and Empowering Others44:16 The Challenges of Reconstruction and Moving Forward46:59 Building a Supportive Community and Looking Ahead

In this podcast episode, our guest Cheryl Brown shares her battle with breast cancer as well as mother's and her own diagnoses. Cheryl details their differing treatments, diagnoses stages, and the emotional and physical challenges they faced. Shellie and Cheryl also delve into the broader issues of healthcare, insurance, the variability of cancer treatment experiences, and the importance of self-advocacy and support systems. Together, they emphasize living beyond a breast cancer diagnosis, shedding light on the significant impact it has on individuals' lives while also highlighting the power of storytelling and community support in navigating the journey of diagnosis, treatment, and beyond.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Host00:41 The Journey to Having Cheryl on the Show01:35 Cheryl's Personal Battle with Breast Cancer09:09 The Varied Experiences of Breast Cancer Treatment18:48 The Importance of Advocacy and Sharing Stories25:08 Navigating Life Post-Diagnosis and Finding Strength27:16 The Emotional Rollercoaster of a Breast Cancer Diagnosis27:24 Navigating Healthcare and Insurance Challenges27:42 Personal Stories of Struggle and Resilience29:29 The Importance of Support and Advocacy33:12 Fashion, Identity, and Empowerment Post-Diagnosis37:44 The Ongoing Journey of Healing and Advocacy51:00 Closing Thoughts: Empowerment and Hope

Host Shellie Turner engages in a heartfelt conversation with breast cancer veteran Asha Miller. They explore the often untalked-about complexities and long-term impacts of living with the disease. Asha opens up about her divorce following her diagnosis, the intricate relationship dynamics that evolved, and the supportive co-parenting setup with her ex-husband for the well-being of their children. Delving deeper into the conversation around breast reconstruction following mastectomy, Asha shares that she plans to undergo a 'deep flap surgery'. She also reveals her engagement with the breast cancer community, including her involvement in the upcoming 'Camp Breasties'. Asha discusses the importance of these communities in creating a network of support, empowering individuals, and disseminating crucial information.Connect with Asha: https://www.instagram.com/dearcancer_itsme/ 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast00:41 Guest Introduction: Asha's Fight Against Cancer01:45 Discussing Asha's Divorce Amidst Cancer Battle04:08 Coping Mechanisms: Watching TV Shows05:04 Navigating Relationships Post-Divorce10:06 Asha's Upcoming Surgery and Body Acceptance17:27 The Impact of Cancer on Family Dynamics19:54 Empowering the Next Generation20:16 The Importance of Genetic Testing and Awareness26:30 Living and Thriving Post-Cancer27:46 Upcoming Events: Camp Breasties27:52 Making Camp Free for Breasties28:12 The Excitement of Attending Camp28:34 The Concept of Breastable29:19 The Breasties App and Community30:05 The Importance of Community in Breast Cancer Journey30:12 The Struggles of Early Breast Cancer Communities31:40 The Evolution of Breast Cancer Communities32:47 The Mental Health Aspect of Breast Cancer33:02 The Concept of Being a Breast Cancer Veteran33:58 The Challenges of Living Post Breast Cancer36:48 The Impact of Breast Cancer on Family42:44 The Victoria's Secret Campaign Experience49:03 The Upcoming Surgery and Reflections51:41 Closing Thoughts and Appreciation

The podcast 'We Do Have a Voice', hosted by Shellie Turner, is a platform for discussing and raising awareness about breast cancer where voices of those touched by the disease are amplified. Our guest, Kellie, an advocate for the BRCA genetic test and a carrier of the gene who underwent preventative mastectomy and hysterectomy, shares her journey and mission promoting genetic testing. Shellie and Kellie discuss the challenges women face when diagnosed and the importance of educating oneself, community involvement and self-advocacy. They express their determination in preventing cancer from being the dominant voice in their lives and encourage other women to do the same.Connect with Kellie: https://www.instagram.com/browngirlandbrcaplus/ 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast00:41 Guest Introduction and Sharing Personal Stories01:45 Importance of BRCA Testing and Personal Experiences04:45 Guest's Military Background and Family's Cancer History05:29 Guest's Preventative Measures and Advocacy Work10:23 Discussion on the Importance of Self-Advocacy14:50 Continued Conversation on Self-Advocacy and Empowerment17:20 The Importance of Genetic Testing18:23 Ignoring the Warning Signs18:57 The Second Chance21:23 The Struggles of Reconstruction23:37 Finding Strength in the Journey25:15 The Power of Community: Camp Bressie28:17 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

In this episode of "C We Do Have A Voice," host Shellie Turner brings a different perspective on breast cancer by inviting her brother as a guest. Together, they discuss the impact of breast cancer on their family, having lost three sisters to the disease. Shellie shares her own experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer three times, while also highlighting the importance of advocating for oneself as a survivor. The conversation sheds light on how breast cancer not only affects individuals, but also the entire family. Tune in to gain insights into the family dynamics surrounding breast cancer and the challenges faced by loved ones.

In this episode of C We Do Have A Voice, host Shellie Turner is joined by Ananda Lewis, who is currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Ananda shares her experience with a non-traditional, expensive chemo treatment and discusses her decision to use cold cap treatment to preserve her hair. The conversation highlights the importance of personalized approaches to cancer treatment and challenges the generalized narratives surrounding cancer. The episode also explores different perspectives on quality of life and the acceptance of death. Join Shellie and Ananda as they dive into a candid discussion about finding one's own story and understanding in the face of breast cancer.Follow Ananda: https://www.instagram.com/imanandalewis/

In this episode of "C We Do Have A Voice," host Shellie Turner is joined by Arnedra Jordan, the Project Manager for Black Women for Wellness. While Arnedra is not a breast cancer survivor herself, she advocates for those who are newly diagnosed, teaching them how to navigate their diagnosis and become advocates for themselves. Black Women for Wellness is an organization that focuses on reproductive justice, with different components including diabetes and breast health. This episode highlights the importance of finding your story, making informed decisions, and understanding breast cancer, regardless of where you live or who you are. Tune in to hear Arnedra's heartfelt insights and learn about the work being done in the African-American community for women's health.00:00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast00:00:42 - Introducing Guest Arnedra Jordan00:01:55 - About Black Women for Wellness00:03:16 - Discussing Diet and Cancer00:05:13 - The Role of Prescriptions and Alternative Medicine00:06:01 - Cancer as an Equal Opportunity Employer00:07:46 - Importance of Green Vegetables00:08:28 - Cancer Doesn't Discriminate00:09:09 - Advocacy and Policy for Black Women's Health00:10:13 - Navigating Health Insurance and Treatment Access00:11:08 - Clinical Trials and the Black Community00:12:25 - The Importance of Clinical Trial Diversity00:13:08 - Clinical Trials and Future Generations00:14:23 - The Pathfinder Clinical Trial00:15:06 - Caregiving and Self-Care00:16:00 - The Pathfinder Program and Lung Health00:17:25 - The Importance of Advocacy and Education00:18:46 - Creating Comfortable Environments for Discussion00:19:53 - The Impact of Racism in Healthcare00:20:13 - The Taking Stock Program00:21:25 - The Link Between Chemicals and Cancer00:22:49 - Environmental Factors and Cancer00:23:57 - The Possibility of a Cancer Vaccine00:25:05 - The Importance of Participating in Clinical Trials00:26:31 - The Future of Cancer Vaccines00:27:43 - Finding Reliable Information on Medications00:28:55 - Sharing Knowledge and Resources00:30:00 - Living Beyond Cancer00:31:14 - Resources for Cancer Survivors00:32:33 - Embracing Life After Cancer00:33:40 - Advocating for Self-Care00:35:07 - Spreading Awareness and Resources00:36:06 - Finding and Sharing Resources00:37:53 - The Role of Community in Spreading Information00:39:43 - Enjoying Life in Moderation00:41:10 - Focusing on Thriving, Not Just Surviving00:42:54 - Changing the Narrative for Black Women's Health00:44:06 - Closing Remarks and Contact Information

In this episode Shellie interviews Jackie, who used to be an ambassador for Susan G. Komen. They discuss breast cancer and the journey of survivors after the initial diagnosis. Jackie shares her personal experience of being diagnosed with stage one breast cancer, and the fear and uncertainty she faced. She highlights the need for better communication and information for patients, as well as the importance of support and empowered advocacy. Jackie also talks about her role in uplifting other patients undergoing treatment and the power of sharing stories for healing.05:27 Breast cancer requires self-advocacy.10:09 Early detection can prevent chemotherapy.13:04 Advocate for your health.18:37 Breast cancer education is crucial.20:51 Racial disparities in breast cancer.29:33 Empower yourself with knowledge.34:31 Support and care for cancer patients.35:14 Gratitude for heartfelt healing.

In this episode, host Shellie Turner interviews Sarah Keith, who shares her story of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Sarah initially overlooked a lump in her breast, attributing it to breastfeeding, but eventually decides to get it checked. She undergoes tests and is diagnosed with breast cancer and attacks it aggressively through surgery and chemotherapy. This episode emphasizes the importance of early detection and highlights the speed at which Sarah's treatment started.Sarah has taken her experience and poured it into art with her art - Sarah Keith Ceramics (https://www.sarahkeithceramics.com/) who's profits are donated to Thriving Beyond Breast Cancer.05:23 Speed is crucial in cancer diagnosis.08:24 Cancer can define your story.15:07 Navigating breast cancer treatment options.19:57 Cancer is not the boss.21:50 Support and community are crucial.27:23 Cancer is a constant concern.31:16 Cancer is not always detectable.36:06 Supporting women with breast cancer.

Shellie welcomes RoShaun, a breast cancer survivor, to share her story on the podcast. RoShaun explains that her life was going well, but her fear of breast cancer always loomed due to her family history. She recalls experiencing pain and confusion, which led her to get an ultrasound and mammogram. The results showed an abnormality, leading to a biopsy and the eventual diagnosis of breast cancer.In this powerful conversation she talks about the importance of getting a good care team, how she chose to fight especially thinking about her children, and her path to wellness.06:10 Early detection is crucial.10:33 Support system is crucial.15:18 Navigating breast cancer requires patience.19:45 Importance of early detection.22:47 Breast cancer is individualized.34:33 Supportive partners are crucial.38:17 Importance of controlling your narrative.44:33 Hair loss during cancer treatment.46:20 Importance of cold cap during chemotherapy.

In this episode, Shellie interviews breast cancer survivor Robin Early. Robin shares her experience of being diagnosed with breast cancer and highlights the significance of early detection. She urges women to know their bodies and be proactive about their breast health. Robin found out about her cancer through routine mammograms, and her faith and support from loved ones helped her navigate the challenges. Despite the life-changing impact of breast cancer, Robin remains optimistic and encourages others to openly talk about their experiences.01:49 Early detection saves lives.07:04 Faith and support are crucial.15:55 Importance of asking questions19:02 Take control of your treatment.24:40 Advocate for your own health.27:13 Seek support and information for breast cancer.

In this episode, Shellie speaks with Karen Eubanks Jackson - the Founder and CEO of Sisters Network® Inc., the oldest and largest national Black breast cancer survivorship organization.  Mrs. Jackson has been diagnosed with breast cancer four times, and in this episode she emphasizes the need for individuals to know their own bodies and pay attention to any signs of a problem. This discussion dives into importance of early detection and self-advocacy, highlights the progress made in raising awareness about breast cancer, and breaking the stigma surrounding it. Both Shellie and Mrs. Jackson share their experiences and the changes they have gone through after their diagnoses.About KAREN EUBANKS JACKSON, FOUNDER/CEO, SISTERS NETWORK INC. Karen Eubanks Jackson is an inspirational woman, renowned as the Founder and CEO of Sisters Network® Inc. (SNI), a remarkable 30-year four-time breast cancer survivor, and an accomplished author. Karen is recognized as a pioneer in the Black breast cancer movement, a national leader, advocate, and visionary who was driven by her own personal triumphs over breast cancer to help save the lives of other black women. In 1994, Karen founded Sisters Network Inc. after experiencing and recognizing the absence of a supportive "sisterhood" in conventional organizations, coupled with a devastating mortality rate for Black women, she set out to confront the silence, shame and stigma associated with breast cancer in the black community. Her objective was to educate and empower Black women, encourage early detection, and ultimately increase survival rates. Today, Sisters Network Inc. is the oldest and largest national Black breast cancer survivorship organization with nearly 30 survivor-run affiliate chapters in the United States. Acknowledging the historical reluctance within the Black community to discuss health concerns, Karen launched the impactful STOP THE SILENCE ® campaign, encouraging criticalconversations about family health and history.Resourceshttps://www.sistersnetworkinc.org/https://www.instagram.com/sistersnetwork/https://www.facebook.com/sistersnetworkinc/00:57 Early detection and self-advocacy matter.12:04 Empowerment through breast cancer advocacy.15:19 Importance of knowledge in healthcare.19:59 Importance of seeking multiple opinions.  24:42. Advocate for your own healthcare.32:30 Take control of your health.36:01. Importance of early breast health.This episode is produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Producer Stephen Selnick, and Editors and Mixers Stefano Montali and Rob Johnson. To learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business visit them at rainbowcreative.co 

In this episode we are joined by Frederick Johnson from Stand Up To Cancer. In this episode he and Shellie talk about the upcoming campaign called Cancer Screen Week, this first week of December starting December 4, 2023 which aims to promote cancer screening and early detection. They highlight the significance of mammograms and breast cancer screening and share resources to get screened, discuss the challenges faced by individuals without insurance ,and the disproportionate impact on certain communities, particularly black women. You won't want to miss this episode which  emphasizes the importance of addressing these barriers and providing access to affordable healthcare.About Cancer Screen WeekFounded by Genentech, and in partnership with the American Cancer Society, Optum and Stand Up To Cancer, Cancer Screen Week is the first and only awareness week dedicated to understanding the benefits of regular cancer screenings for all cancer types. The week takes place annually the first full week of December (this year, December 4-8). We bring the campaign to life through the website www.cancerscreenweek.org, earned media/storytelling, and digital media including paid advertising. Campaign Goals:Increase national awareness of the importance of regular cancer screening and early detection among U.S. adults 35+Reach underserved populations that experience disparities in cancer (specifically Black, Latino, and Tribal communities)Generate grassroots engagement locally in communities nationwide Breast cancer is one of the cancers highlighted for regular screenings. Resourceshttps://standuptocancer.org/https://www.instagram.com/su2c/Timestamps02:32 Importance of cancer screening06:00 Importance of access to information.12:01 Regular screening is crucial.16:27 Importance of knowing family history.23:39 Be your own healthcare advocate.27:07 Advocate for your own healthcare.32:09 Advocacy organizations provide valuable resources.39:12 Health inequities affect cancer treatment.43:23 Engage people in decision-making.This episode is produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Producer Stephen Selnick, and Editors and Mixers Stefano Montali and Rob Johnson. To learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business visit them at rainbowcreative.co 

In this premiere episode, Shellie Turner interviews Bridgette Hempstead who survived breast cancer and created an organization, The Cierra Sisters to support others. They discuss the lack of resources and support available when they were diagnosed, and the importance of sharing stories and information. Bridgette shares her personal experience with breast cancer, from the initial diagnosis to her journey through treatment. This episode also discusses the impact of the diagnosis on their lives and how it led them to create platforms and organizations for breast cancer survivors.About the Cierra SistersCierra Sisters was founded by Bridgette Hempstead shortly after her own diagnosis. It is a breast cancer survivor and support organization. The name is rooted in African origins; “Cierra” meaning “knowing”, reminding us that knowledge is in fact  power. Their mission is to break the cycle of fear and increase knowledge concerning breast cancer in the African-American and underserved communities. Though they are based in Seattle Washington, Cierra Sisters is committed to increasing local, state, and nationwide attention to the devastating impact of breast cancer.Resources:https://cierrasisters.org/https://cierrasisters.org/informationInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cierra_sisters/02:05 Breast cancer diagnosis led to advocacy.10:52 Support and educate breast cancer patients15:26 Importance of clinical trials for African-American women.18:25 Advocate for your own health.23:54 Importance of support during illness.32:46 Advocate for proper medical care.35:09 Advocate for yourself in healthcare.This episode is produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Producer Stephen Selnick, and Editors and Mixers Stefano Montali and Rob Johnson. To learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business visit them at rainbowcreative.co 

This episode features Marissa Thomas who is the CoFounder and CEO of For the Breast of Us. In this episode, we hear both Marissa and Shellie's stories about their experiences of being diagnosed with breast cancer ,and the fear they felt. In this episode, Marissa explains that her organization aims to provide resources and support to African-American women who often face unique challenges in the medical system. They discuss the importance of accessible information and how "The Breast of Us" uses social media and the internet to reach women across the world.About Marissa ThomasMarissa Thomas is a patient advocate and breast cancer thriver who was diagnosed in 2015 with stage II breast cancer. She is the CoFounder and CEO of For the Breast of Us, an inclusive online community for Women of Color impacted by breast cancer. As a woman of color diagnosed with early stage breast cancer, Marissa co- founded "For the Breast of Us" to provide women of color with a resource tailored to us and personal accounts expressed by us.Marissa's passion is to educate women on how to navigate the healthcare system to make it work for them. She also wants women to know they can continue living their best life, regardless of the circumstance by advocating for themselves, embracing their community and expanding their education on the disease. Marissa holds a BS in Healthcare Administration, serves on the board of Living Beyond Breast Cancer, is a certified Living Beyond Breast Cancer Young Advocate and NBCC Project Lead graduate.About The Breast of UsA cancer diagnosis changes everything. As a woman of color, where do you go or who do you turn to when you’re in the midst of the fight of your life? You search online for stories and images of women who’ve gone through treatment and look like you, but you find little to nothing. Maybe you scroll down your timeline on social media, hoping to see a glimmer of hope in the face of other fighters and survivors, but you still yearn for something more. That’s where “For the Breast of Us” comes in. Their mission is to empower women of color affected by breast cancer to make the rest of their lives the best of their lives through education, advocacy and community.Resourceshttps://www.breastofus.com/ https://www.instagram.com/forthebreastofus/00:14 Empowering black women with breast cancer.07:36 Better communication for cancer patients.10:43 Support and partnership in healthcare.17:20 Importance of patient advocacy19:36 Support and connection heal cancer.25:03 Importance of sharing breast cancer stories.29:23 Partnership and future collaboration.This episode is produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Producer Stephen Selnick, and Editors and Mixers Stefano Montali and Rob Johnson. To learn more on how to make a podcast for you or your business visit them at rainbowcreative.co 

Breast Cancer doesn't care where you live, who you know, how healthy you are, how many initials you have behind your name, or the color of your skin. It could care less about money. This is a party that you never RSVP’d to, yet you are the guest of honor… and you don’t know what to do next. Being diagnosed with breast cancer is where the discussion starts. Join host Shellie Turner in her new podcast that will shine light upon the darkness of diagnosis, giving you the support and information you need to keep moving forward from fellow fighters and survivors. We know you have questions, and this is a space where you can begin to find answers, community, and a voice for yourself in this journey.  C. We Do Have a Voice welcomes you to the marvelous light of day. Subscribe now for episodes dropping weekly in December 2023.This podcast is produced by Rainbow Creative with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Stephen Selnick as Producer, and Rob Johnson and Stefano Montali as Editors and Sound Engineers. To learn more how to make a podcast for you or your business, visit them at rainbowcreative.co.