FDA

She is Tamika

Happy 50th Birthday to our Founder, Chief Visionary, and Global Trailblazer, Tamika Felder!

Today, we don’t just celebrate a birthday — we celebrate a legacy in motion.

Diagnosed with cervical cancer at just 25 years old, Tamika Felder could have let that diagnosis define her limits. Instead, she transformed it into a launching point. What began as one woman’s journey of survivorship has become a global movement centered on advocacy, education, and community.

In 2005, Tamika founded Cervivor, Inc. to create what she wished she had during treatment — a space to be seen, heard, and supported. Her vision gave birth to a powerful community where cervical cancer patients and survivors could raise their voices, share their stories, and make a difference in the lives of others.

Nearly two decades later, Cervivor is now a recognized global leader in the mission to eliminate cervical cancer. And Tamika — still at the helm — remains one of the most influential voices in the cancer advocacy space.

“Every birthday is a big deal when you’ve had cancer, but this one isn’t just about turning 50. It’s about asking: ‘What have I done with this time? What mark have I left?’For me, that answer is Cervivor. Twenty years ago, I founded the organization to create the kind of support I didn’t have: a community where cervical cancer patients and survivors can find their voice, share their stories, and educate others. I’m proud of what we’ve built. We’ve turned pain into power. We’ve built a movement.”

Tamika with her fellow survivors and volunteers during the early years of Cervivor, Inc. (formerly Tamika and Friends, Inc.).
Tamika and Chief DEI Officer, Kimberly Williams with the 2024 Communities of Color Retreat Attendees in Cleveland, Ohio.

But her impact reaches far beyond this organization. She has:

Tamika’s work has transformed systems, shattered stigma, and created space for countless others to rise in their purpose.

The Cervivor Community Reflects

Tamika, your mark is undeniable. You’ve opened doors for others to walk through. You’ve transformed individual stories into collective progress. You’ve given power back to people who never thought they’d be seen. 

Tamika’s impact isn’t just professional — it’s deeply personal. The Cervivor community, made up of those whose lives have been touched by her work, shares their heartfelt thanks:

Tamika strikes a pose with other cervical cancer survivors at the 2025 Cervical Cancer Summit Powered By Cervivor, Inc.

“I know I say this often, but I truly am grateful for you being bold enough to walk in your purpose. You continue to open doors for all of us to walk through. Your reach is immeasurable. Merci beaucoup, Tamika Felder!” — Cervivor Community Member

“You have given so many of us a platform of hope, all while empowering us to use our stories, our voices to create a better tomorrow. Thank you for being unstoppable!” — Cervivor Community Member

“Tamika, you have changed the face of cervical cancer and helped to spotlight the lives and stories of too many patients and survivors to count. I am glad to celebrate you today!” — Cervivor Community Member

“Thank you for everything you do every day to end cervical cancer. You are a force of change and so very needed!” — Cervivor Community Member

Join the Celebration: Honor Her Legacy.

As we reflect on Tamika’s 24 years of global impact, we’re reminded of the power of resilience and determination. From creating a community for those affected by cervical cancer to advocating for awareness, education, and research, Tamika’s work has changed lives and saved lives.

Tamika moderating the 2024 Biden Cancer Moonshot Cervical Cancer Forum

Through Cervivor, Inc., she has given a voice to the voiceless, hope to the hopeless, and support to those navigating the complexities of cervical cancer. Her legacy is a testament to transformation through adversity and turning it into purpose.

Tamika’s story is one of courage, perseverance, and compassion, inspiring a movement that continues to grow and evolve. 

As Cervivor, Inc. stands strong today, it’s a direct result of Tamika’s vision, leadership, and commitment to eliminating cervical cancer once and for all. Now, it’s our turn to celebrate her legacy. 

In honor of her 50th birthday:

  • Share — how Tamika’s work has inspired or impacted you.
  • Give to support Cervivor’s work — because access, education, and advocacy save lives.
  • Get involved — share your story, raise awareness, and be part of the change.
  • Use your voice — because your story matters, and together we can eliminate cervical cancer.

Let’s show Tamika and the world that her impact has not only mattered, but multiplied. Happy 50th Birthday, Tamika Felder. Your legacy is powerful. Your leadership is transformative. Your voice has changed the world. 

Uniting to End Cancer Disparities for All

Every year, during the third week of June, communities across the United States come together to observe National Black Family Cancer Awareness Week. This important week, spearheaded by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Oncology Center of Excellence, aims to raise awareness about the disproportionate impact of cancer on Black families and to promote cancer prevention, screening, and treatment within this 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:

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.

Tamika Felder, Founder & Chief Visionary and Kimberly Williams, Chief Diversity Equity and Inclusion Officer, Charleston, SC
Tiera Wade, Cervivor Ambassador, Akron, OH

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:

  1. 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.
  2. Participate in Local Events: Attend health fairs, workshops, and other events in your community. Encourage friends and family to join you.
  1. Volunteer: Offer your time to local organizations that are hosting events or providing support services.
  1. 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.