Access to Care

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Cervivor Mourns the Loss of Jessica Pettway to Cervical Cancer: Calls for Increased Advocacy

[Upper Marlboro, MD], March 22, 2024 – Cervivor, Inc., a leading advocacy organization dedicated to cervical cancer awareness, advocacy, and support, is deeply saddened by the passing of Jessica Pettway, a beloved beauty influencer, wife, and mother, who tragically lost her life to cervical cancer at the age of 36. Jessica’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the critical importance of early detection and accurate diagnosis in the mission to eliminate this preventable disease.

Jessica’s journey underscores the urgent need for increased awareness, education, and advocacy surrounding cervical cancer. Despite her efforts to seek medical attention, Jessica was initially misdiagnosed, with doctors dismissing her symptoms as “just a fibroid.” This devastating misdiagnosis delayed crucial treatment and ultimately cost Jessica her life.

During this difficult time, Cervivor extends its deepest condolences to Jessica’s family, friends, and followers. We stand in solidarity with all those affected by cervical cancer and remain steadfast in our commitment to preventing any more insurmountable losses.

Cervical cancer is a highly preventable and treatable disease when detected early through routine screenings and HPV vaccinations. However, disparities in access to healthcare, misinformation, and stigma continue to pose significant barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment especially in communities of color.

As advocates for cervical cancer prevention and elimination, Cervivor urges individuals to prioritize their cervical health by:

  1. Advocating for themselves and their loved ones by seeking regular screenings and medical attention for any concerning symptoms.
  2. Educating themselves about cervical cancer risks, prevention strategies, and available resources.
  3. Engaging in open and honest conversations about cervical health with healthcare providers, family members, and peers.
  4. Supporting organizations like Cervivor in their mission to raise awareness, promote education, and advocate for policy changes to improve cervical cancer prevention and care.

Jessica’s legacy will endure as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to prioritize cervical health and ensure that no one suffers the same fate due to misinformation, misdiagnosis, or inadequate healthcare access.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Morgan Newman, Community Engagement Liaison at [email protected].

About Cervivor:

Cervivor is a nonprofit organization dedicated to cervical cancer advocacy, education, and support. Founded by a now 22-year survivor, Tamika Felder, Cervivor is committed to empowering individuals affected by cervical cancer to become advocates for their health while working to eliminate the stigma surrounding the disease. For more information, visit https://cervivor.org/. 

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Pioneering Moments in Cervical Cancer with Tamika Felder

Cervical cancer is a global health problem that disproportionately affects Black women. Statistics reveal that Black women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with and die from cervical cancer than White women. This disparity underscores the urgent need to address the systemic issues that contribute to unequal access to care and preventive screening that is necessary to eliminate cervical cancer.

In honor of Black History Month, we celebrate Cervivor Founder and Chief Visionary, Tamika Felder’s pioneering moments in cervical cancer awareness and advocacy. As a long-time cervical cancer survivor and internationally recognized patient advocate for cervical cancer prevention, Tamika has been a driving force in the fight against this disease. Her journey and advocacy have left an indelible mark on the cervical cancer community, inspiring change, health equity, access to care, and the creation of a community of patients and survivors sharing their lived experiences with others. 

Tamika’s tireless efforts have significantly contributed to the mission of ending cervical cancer once and for all. Founding Cervivor 19 years ago has not only brought survivors together but has also played a pivotal role in spreading awareness, providing education, and offering support to those impacted by this disease. Through her advocacy, she has amplified the voices of survivors and thrivers, ensuring that their stories are heard and their needs are addressed.

The recent Cervical Cancer Summit powered by Cervivor, where Tamika’s presence was felt, served as a testament to the impact of her advocacy. The summit brought together experts, researchers, healthcare professionals, family members, and patient advocate voices to discuss the latest advancements, challenges, and strategies in the cervical cancer space. The discussions and initiatives that emerged from this event have the potential to shape the future of cervical cancer awareness and prevention.

Tamika’s advocacy has also been instrumental in addressing the disparities in cervical cancer education, treatment, and prevention among Black women. Her commitment to empowering individuals with knowledge and resources, promoting early detection, and reducing the burden of cervical cancer in Black communities won’t stop.

Tamika’s story is a part of cervical cancer history. Her advocacy has not only raised awareness but has also paved the way for a future where cervical cancer is eradicated. As we share our stories we stand in solidarity with Tamika and work towards this shared mission.

Her story, your story, and our stories matter. Together, we can make a difference and create a world free from cervical cancer as we know it.