Empowering Lives: Cervivor, Inc. Stands Strong on International HPV Awareness Day

Today, on International HPV Awareness Day, Cervivor, Inc. stands united with individuals, organizations, researchers, providers, and communities worldwide to raise awareness about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and its link to cervical cancer.

As patient advocates for cervical cancer awareness, we believe that education, the empowerment of survivor stories, routine screenings, and vaccination are key elements in the global mission to end cervical cancer. We celebrate the progress made and shed light on the collaborative efforts aimed at eliminating HPV-related cancers.

Education as a Shield Against HPV

Education serves as a powerful tool in the prevention of HPV and its associated cancers. At Cervivor, Inc., we emphasize the importance of understanding the risks, transmission, and consequences of HPV. By cultivating awareness, we aim to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their overall health and well-being.

The first step in preventing HPV-related cancers is understanding the virus itself. HPV is a commonly transmitted infection that can affect both men and women. With over 100 different types, some strains are considered high-risk and are linked to the development of cervical cancer. By spreading knowledge about the virus, we hope to break down the stigma surrounding HPV and encourage open conversations.

Empowering Survivor Stories

Behind every statistic is a person, and at Cervivor, Inc., we believe in the power of survivor stories. Sharing experiences helps break down barriers, reduce stigma, and create a supportive community for those affected by HPV-related cancers. Survivor stories serve as a source of inspiration, proving that a diagnosis does not define an individual’s future.

Through our private social media group we provide a safe space for HPV-related cancer survivors to share their journeys, triumphs, and challenges. By amplifying these voices, we aim to empower others, offering hope and encouragement to those navigating their own HPV-related cancer experiences. Together with our community partners, we build a network that stands strong against the impact of cervical and other HPV-related cancers.

Routine Screenings and Vaccination: A Dual Strategy

Routine cervical cancer screenings and HPV vaccination are crucial components of the strategy to eliminate cervical cancer. Screenings, such as Pap and HPV tests, can detect abnormal changes and the status of an active infection in the cervix early on, allowing for timely intervention and preventing the progression of cancer. Cervivor, Inc. advocates for regular screenings as part of a comprehensive approach to cervical health as well as the elimination of the disparities in accessing these life-saving screenings and vaccinations. 

Additionally, HPV vaccination is a proactive measure to prevent infection with the high-risk strains of the virus. Vaccination not only protects individuals from certain types of HPV but also contributes to herd immunity, reducing the overall prevalence of the virus in the community. By promoting both routine screenings and vaccination, we take significant steps toward a future where cervical cancer is rare. Check out the most recent study results from Scotland showing that vaccination is working!

A Shoutout to Our Partners at IPVS

Cervivor, Inc. extends a heartfelt shoutout to our incredible partners at the International Papillomavirus Society (IPVS). Their extensive campaign, involving organizations across the globe, has been instrumental in raising awareness and cultivating collaboration to end HPV-related cancers. We are working towards a world where no one has to face the devastating impact of an HPV-related cancer together.

On International HPV Awareness Day, Cervivor, Inc. reaffirms its commitment to educating, empowering, and advocating for those affected by HPV-related cancers. By embracing survivor stories, promoting education, and supporting routine screenings and vaccination, we strive towards the ultimate goal of eliminating cervical and other HPV-related cancers. We stand in solidarity with our partners at IPVS and the global community in the shared mission to make HPV-related cancers a thing of the past. Together, we can create a future where no one loses their life to a preventable disease.

Honoring the Life and Legacy of Jennifer Walker Myers

In the quiet corners of Pennsylvania, a fierce individual fought valiantly against cervical cancer. Today, we come together to remember and celebrate the extraordinary life of Jennifer “Jenn” Walker Myers, a woman whose strength, resilience, and generous spirit touched the lives of many.

Jenn’s journey with cervical cancer brought her to the doors of Cervivor, a community that became her refuge and her sanctuary. In her own words, “When I discovered Cervivor two and a half years ago, I felt like a weight that I didn’t even know existed was lifted from my mind.” 

This group of women from diverse backgrounds understood the depth of her struggles, offering solace and understanding that transcended the boundaries of a traditional support network. Cancer became Jenn’s unexpected occupation, leading her to leave behind a career she loved. Yet, rather than succumbing to despair, she channeled her 30 years of leadership, mentoring, communication, and support experience to uplift others within the Cervivor community. For Jenn, this became a new mission – a calling that resonated with her heart and soul. “Cancer is my new job, and Cervivor is the platform in which I can help others,” she proclaimed.

Jenn’s dedication extended beyond the digital realm of Cervivor. Despite her ongoing treatments and the physical toll they took, she actively participated in initiatives like the Cervical Cancer Awareness Month planning committee, demonstrating her commitment to raising awareness about cervical cancer. Her advocacy work was not confined to boardrooms or meeting halls; even from her hotel room in the midst of recovery, she continued to lend her voice to the cause.

One of the remarkable qualities that defined Jenn was her passion for helping others navigate the complex landscape of clinical trials. In her role as a patient advocate, she enlightened others on the intricacies of these trials and offered a sign of hope, showing that there were still options for those in the throes of this relentless and unforgiving disease.

While facing multiple recurrences of cervical cancer, Jenn refused to let it impede her mission. She remained an active participant in Cervivor, utilizing various platforms – news interviews, panels, and patient advocate roles – to share her story and bring about change. She served on the National Cancer Institute’s Cervical Cancer Task Force, was an American Association for Cancer Research member and was featured in their 2022 annual report to Congress. Her voice echoed through fundraising efforts, turning her own birthday into a donation drive to support Cervivor’s Comfort Care and Compassion Program as well as gathering her family to do multiple unique fundraisers in her honor — a true testament to her compassion and commitment to the cause.

Even as Jenn continued her journey through cervical cancer, she never stopped spreading awareness about the importance of HPV vaccination and the realities of living with this disease. She shared her story with candor, honesty, and a desire that anyone facing cervical cancer would find the same support and camaraderie she discovered within Cervivor. Jenn was acknowledged with the 2022 Cervivor Champion Recipient, the 2022 Erica Frazier Stum Living with Cancer Recipient and was a 2023 Cervivor School Graduate.

In early 2024, Jenn along with her family established The Nennie Foundation. Jenn was lovingly known as ‘Nennie’ to her nieces and nephews. The nonprofit was developed to help cancer patients by assisting them financially with their cancer journey. Jenn was blessed to be able to navigate her journey financially unlike many others in the same situation. The Nennie Foundation will provide grants to cancer patients who face financial challenges in accessing healthcare. These “small acts of kindness” represent how Jenn liked to shower her family and friends with small gifts as thank yous, get well or milestone celebrations. It was Jenn’s wish that no flowers be sent but instead to consider donations to the Nennie Foundation to help as many cancer patients as possible in her honor.

Jennifer Walker Myers may have left this world, but her legacy lives on. She leaves behind a trail of inspiration, advocacy, and hope that will continue to guide and uplift those who follow in her footsteps. Today, we honor a true Cervivor, a symbol of strength and resilience, and a woman whose impact on the fight against cervical cancer will forever be etched in our hearts.