Today, we come together as the Cervivor community to celebrate an incredible woman whose vision, strength, and dedication have changed countless lives. Please join us in wishing a very Happy Birthday to our Founder and Chief Visionary, Tamika Felder!
Tamika, your journey from a cervical cancer survivor to an outspoken advocate — a “cancer rebel” for cervical cancer awareness and prevention is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Your personal story, filled with courage and resilience, has been a guiding source of hope and empowerment for so many. Through Cervivor, you have created a space where survivors can share their experiences, find support, and educate others about the importance of cervical cancer screening and prevention.
On this special day, we want to acknowledge and appreciate the countless hours you have devoted to this cause. Your tireless efforts to spread awareness, advocate for better healthcare, and support those affected by cervical cancer have made a significant impact on our community and beyond. Your leadership has transformed Cervivor into a powerful movement that continues to inspire and save lives.
Your commitment to breaking the stigma around cervical cancer and advocating for HPV vaccination and regular screenings has not only raised awareness but has also led to actionable change. Your voice has reached people all over the world, providing them with the knowledge and courage to take charge of their health.
As we celebrate you today, we also celebrate the legacy you are building. Cervivor is not just an organization; it is a testament to your passion and dedication. Through educational programs, survivor stories, and advocacy efforts, you have created a lasting impact that will continue to empower and educate future generations.
On behalf of the entire Cervivor community, we wish you a very Happy Birthday, Tamika! May your day be filled with joy, love, and the same boundless energy and positivity that you bring to all of us. Here’s to many more years of health, happiness, and continued success in all your endeavors. With gratitude and admiration, The Cervivor Community.
Understanding the Disparities Cancer affects all demographics, but statistics reveal a troubling disparity: Black Americans are more likely to develop and die from cancer compared to other racial and ethnic groups.
The reasons for this disparity are multifaceted, involving socioeconomic factors, access to healthcare, environmental exposures, and genetic predispositions.
National Black Family Cancer Awareness Week is designed to address these disparities by:
Promoting Education and Awareness: Increasing awareness about the higher cancer risks faced by Black families encourages proactive health measures. Understanding the importance of early detection and regular screenings can significantly improve survival rates.
Highlighting Preventative Measures: Educating the community about lifestyle choices that can reduce cancer risk, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol use, is crucial.
Encouraging Participation in Clinical Trials: There is a significant underrepresentation of Black Americans in clinical trials, which can hinder the development of effective treatments for this demographic. National Black Family Cancer Awareness Week seeks to increase awareness and participation in these trials, ensuring that new treatments are tested for efficacy across diverse populations.
Community Engagement One of the most impactful aspects of National Black Family Cancer Awareness Week is its focus on community involvement.
Local organizations, healthcare providers, and advocates host a variety of events and initiatives to engage the community, such as:
Health Fairs and Screenings: Offering free or low-cost cancer screenings and health check-ups to encourage early detection.
Educational Workshops: Providing information on cancer prevention, treatment options, and the importance of regular medical check-ups.
Support Groups and Counseling Services: Creating spaces for those affected by cancer to share their experiences, receive support, and find resources.
Real Stories, Real Impact Hearing from individuals who have been affected by cancer can be incredibly powerful. Testimonials from cancer survivors, family members, and healthcare providers highlight the real-life impact of cancer within the Black community. These stories create solidarity and provide hope, reminding us that we are not alone in this fight.
Taking Action Here are some ways you can get involved in National Black Family Cancer Awareness Week:
Spread the Word: Use social media platforms to share information and resources. The hashtags #Cervivor #CervivorNoir #BlackFamCan #EndCervicalCancer are a great way to join the conversation and reach a wider audience.
Participate in Local Events: Attend health fairs, workshops, and other events in your community. Encourage friends and family to join you.
Volunteer: Offer your time to local organizations that are hosting events or providing support services.
Get Screened: If you haven’t already, schedule a cancer screening. Encourage your loved ones to do the same. The hashtag #Screen4Me is a great way to spread awareness and share the importance of screening.
National Black Family Cancer Awareness Week is more than just a week of activities; it’s a call to action for year-round commitment to addressing and reducing the impact of cancer on Black families. By coming together, we can make significant strides in education, prevention, and treatment, ultimately saving lives and creating healthier communities.
Cervivor Community Members and Cervical Cancer Survivors (Left to Right): Keesha Carter, Gwendolyn Jackson, and Lindsay Gullatte-Lee
As we observe National Black Family Cancer Awareness Week, let’s remember that awareness and action go hand in hand. Together, we can create a future where cancer disparities are a thing of the past, and every family has the knowledge and resources to fight cancer effectively.
