In Episode 108 of Spotlight Houston, host Blanca Quezada spotlights the Susan G. Komen Foundation, a key player in the fight against breast cancer. We’re joined by Brandice Pierre, Executive Director of the Gulf Coast Susan G. Komen Foundation, and Hilary Ware, a breast cancer survivor and passionate volunteer.
Brandice shares how Susan G. Komen Foundation helps patients and families through free screenings, financial assistance, and support programs. “Every two minutes, a woman in the U.S. is diagnosed with breast cancer. And we know that one in eight women in the United States will face a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime,” Brandice shares, stressing the importance of early detection and community support. Hilary shares her personal journey, adding, “Komen was there for me every step of the way.”
Learn more about their work, including the Race for the Cure and how they’re changing lives with research and advocacy. If you or someone you know needs help, visit https://www.komen.org/ or call the helpline at 1-877-465-6636 (1-877 GO KOMEN).
Tune in every week for new spotlights. New episodes drop every Monday!
Do you have an idea or feedback for us? We’d love to hear from you! Follow us on social media, and don’t forget to leave us a rating or review on your favorite podcatcher:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpotlightHoustonShow
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spotlighthoustonshow
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@spotlighthoustonshow
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SpotlightHou
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SpotlightHoustonShow
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Breast Cancer Research Milestones
Brandice Pierre shares how Susan G. Komen’s research has reduced breast cancer mortality by 42% since 1989, contributing to the development of 19 new treatments.
[00:00:44] Episode Introduction
Sandra Fernandez introduces this episode of Spotlight Houston, featuring the Susan G. Komen Foundation and guests Brandice Pierre, Executive Director, and Hilary Ware, a breast cancer survivor.
[00:01:14] Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Blanca Quezada highlights October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, sharing her story as a 20-year survivor. She emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and supporting others.
[00:02:36] The Role of Support
Blanca explains how Susan G. Komen provides critical help for patients and caregivers, offering services like their helpline and events such as Race for the Cure.
[00:04:54] Komen’s Global Mission
Brandice describes how the Komen Foundation, founded by Nancy Brinker, focuses on research, advocacy, and local support for breast cancer patients and families worldwide.
[00:06:38] Facing Fear of Diagnosis
Blanca and Brandice discuss the fear of a breast cancer diagnosis and how Komen offers resources that help alleviate fears and guide women through the process of testing and treatment.
[00:09:41] Importance of Mammograms
Brandice underscores the importance of annual mammograms, especially for early detection, sharing statistics on how many women miss screenings and the need for increased awareness.
[00:12:33] Genetic Testing and Risk
The conversation covers the importance of genetic testing for assessing breast cancer risk. Brandice encourages women to know their family history and make informed healthcare decisions.
[00:14:38] Different Types of Breast Cancer
Brandice explains the various types of breast cancer, each requiring a personalized approach. Blanca shares her experience with DCIS, highlighting the importance of early detection.
[00:17:02] Breast Cancer Disparities
Brandice discusses the higher breast cancer mortality rates among Black women, stressing the need for targeted education and support in high-risk communities.
[00:20:41] Hilary’s Survival Journey
Hilary Ware shares her story of being diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer during COVID-19 and how Komen and MD Anderson supported her through treatment.
[00:25:27] Volunteering and Advocacy
Brandice explains how people can support Komen by volunteering, advocating, or donating to fund critical research and community outreach efforts.
[00:27:18] Komen’s Helpline and Resources
Brandice details the Komen helpline, which provides emotional support, financial assistance, and access to low-cost screenings for breast cancer patients and caregivers.
[00:29:02] Final Thoughts
Blanca closes the episode by thanking Brandice and Hilary. She urges listeners to get mammograms, use Komen’s resources, and submit story ideas.
