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 Sisters

Cierra 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/information
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cierra_sisters/

02:05 Breast cancer diagnosis led to advocacy.

10:52 Support and educate breast cancer patients

15:26 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