Access to Care

Leaving Our Mark: National Infertility Awareness Week and the Cervical Cancer Community

This National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), we at Cervivor, Inc. are embracing the theme “Leave Your Mark” with a focus that is close to our hearts: the intersection of infertility and cervical cancer. From April 21-27, we unite under this banner, not only to raise awareness about infertility issues across the board but also to shed light on the specific challenges faced by those in the cervical cancer community.

The Intersection of Cervical Cancer and Infertility
Cervical cancer and its treatments often pose significant challenges to fertility, a fact that many of our community members know all too well. Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can impact fertility, sometimes temporarily, and in many cases, permanently. This adds an additional layer of emotional and physical complexity to the cancer journey.

For many, the dream of motherhood remains strong, and the grief that accompanies the loss of fertility can be profound. This week, we want to acknowledge that grief, offer our support, and highlight the resources available for those navigating this difficult intersection.

How You Can “Leave Your Mark”
1. Wear Orange on April 24 – This year, wear orange on April 24 to stand in solidarity with those facing infertility. Orange represents a symbol of community hope and support, lighting the way forward amidst the challenges. Tag us and use hashtags #Cervivor, #CervicalCancer, and #LeaveYourMark.

2. Educate Yourself and Others – Take this week to learn more about the fertility challenges associated with cervical cancer treatments. Understanding these challenges can help you support friends, family members, or community members who are dealing with these issues.

3. Share Your Story – If you feel comfortable, share your story. Whether it’s on social media, our blog, our website, or within your circle of friends, talking about your experiences can help to destigmatize infertility issues and provide support to others going through similar struggles.

Use our hashtags #Cervivor, #CervicalCancer, and #LeaveYourMark to join the conversation.

4. Advocate for Fertility Preservation – One way to leave your mark is to advocate for better access to fertility preservation techniques and insurance coverage. These services are crucial for those undergoing treatments that may affect their reproductive health. Check out our amazing community partners over at the Alliance For Fertility Preservation to learn more.

5. Support Research and Charities – Support organizations that are working towards better treatments for cervical cancer and those addressing infertility. Cervivor has a newly established gift fund called the Virginia “Ginny” Marable Cervivor Baby Gift Fund to help those impacted by cervical cancer in their family planning. Your support can make a huge difference in advancing these services even further.

In Solidarity
During National Infertility Awareness Week, let’s come together to leave a lasting mark on the fight against infertility and the mission to end cervical cancer. By wearing orange, sharing our stories, and advocating for change, we can build a community that supports everyone, no matter where they are in their journey. 

Join us to #LeaveYourMark. Remember, your voice, your story, and your support matter now more than ever.

Thank you for standing with us,

The Team at Cervivor, Inc.

Take Action and Spread Awareness

In a world brimming with causes and issues, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, and unsure of how to make a difference. But fear not! Your voice matters, and your actions, no matter how small, can create waves of change. 

One initiative we are excited to be participating in is President Biden’s declaration of April as National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month. The proclamation carries profound significance for our Cervivor community, particularly our mission to eradicate cervical cancer. The re-ignition of the Cancer Moonshot initiative underscores the critical need to accelerate advancements in cervical cancer prevention, treatment, and early detection methods. 

For cervical cancer survivors, patients, and advocates, this proclamation reaffirms our commitment to advocating for accessible screenings, eliminating barriers to healthcare access, and raising awareness about the importance of early detection. With screening playing a pivotal role in detecting cervical abnormalities before they progress into cancerous lesions, this initiative aligns with our mission to empower individuals with knowledge, resources, and support in their journey against cervical cancer.  

This month, we’re urging you to join us and take action to spread awareness for this and other important initiatives. From advocating for health equity to supporting cancer awareness and vaccination efforts, there are countless ways to get involved and make a positive impact. So let’s come together as a community and harness our collective power to drive meaningful change.

National Minority Health Month: This month, let’s recognize the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes faced by communities of color communities. By raising awareness and advocating for equitable healthcare policies, we can work towards a healthier, more just society for all.

National Public Health Week (April 1st – 7th): Public health is everyone’s responsibility. During National Public Health Week, let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made in improving health outcomes and renew our commitment to addressing the underlying social, economic, and environmental factors that shape health.

National Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Week (April 1st – 5th): Adolescents and young adults facing cancer often have unique needs and challenges. We’re using this week to raise awareness about AYA cancer issues, support those affected, and advocate for better research, treatment, and support services. Follow along with our social media platforms and check out our partners over at Stupid Cancer.

Adolescent Immunization Action Week (April 1st – 5th): Vaccines save lives, but immunization rates among adolescents are often lower than desired. This week, we’re highlighting the importance of adolescent immunizations and encouraging parents and caregivers to ensure their teens are up to date on recommended vaccines.

Here are five practical tips to get involved:

1) Utilize Social Media Platforms: Social media isn’t just for sharing selfies and pet videos. It’s a powerful tool for raising awareness and mobilizing communities. Share informative posts, engage in discussions, and use relevant hashtags to amplify your message. Need content? We’ve got you! Like, comment, and share directly from the Cervivor platforms or utilize our social media kit. You can find all of our handles at the bottom of our LinkTree page here.

2) Organize or Participate in Events and Activities: Whether it’s a fundraiser, a MeetUp, or an online event, getting involved in local events is a great way to make a tangible impact. Don’t wait for someone else to take the lead—be the change you wish to see! To join any upcoming events by Cervivor, visit our website.

3) Partner with Organizations: Collaborating with established organizations can give your efforts more reach and credibility. Consider teaming up with groups like Cervivor, which focuses on cervical cancer advocacy and support, to maximize your impact.

4) Engage with Media: Media coverage can shine a spotlight on important issues and spark meaningful conversations. Write letters to the editor, pitch stories to journalists, or even start your own blog or podcast to share stories and perspectives that need to be heard. Need some tips to get you started? We have a media kit for that!

5) Donate to Organizations Doing the Work: Financial support is crucial for organizations working tirelessly to create change. Even a small donation can make a big difference in funding research, providing support services, or advocating for policy changes.

Together, we have the power to create a better, healthier world. So let’s roll up our sleeves, use our voices, and take action for the causes we believe in. Whether it’s advocating for communities of color and their health, promoting public health initiatives, supporting adolescent and young adult cancer awareness, or championing adolescent immunizations, every effort counts. Let’s inspire change, be intentional and inclusive of all, and build a brighter future for generations to come. Thank you for joining us on this journey of advocacy and awareness where we know we can make a difference.