Nancy’s Story: The Ninth Person in Her Family to Have Breast Cancer
Nancy was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2022.. Her diagnosis was not necessarily a surprise to her. “I’m number nine in my family for breast cancer,” she said. On Nancy’s maternal side, her grandmother and grandfather both had breast cancer, as did an uncle and aunt and several cousins. What surprised Nancy more than her diagnosis was that neither she nor any of her family members tested positive for a BRCA gene mutation.
Lauren’s Story: Educating Others About BRCA Gene Mutations & Breast Cancer Risk
Just before her 38th birthday, Lauren Yerkes learned she had breast cancer. Genetic testing would reveal she had the BRCA2 inherited gene mutation that made her at higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers. “My experience has made me want to educate people about inherited BRCA mutations and to push for genetic testing, because people don’t really talk about it,” Lauren said. “I had no idea I was at risk.”
Royce’s Breast Cancer Story: Just Keep Going Forward, One Step at a Time
Royce’s breast cancer story began after a routine mammogram. “I was pretty vigilant and kept up with my regular mammograms,” she said. “The called me back at the radiologist office and said it looked like I had early breast cancer.” Follow-up tests confirmed her diagnosis. It was during this experience that she realized how much strength she had within herself. “You never know how strong you are until you have to be strong,” she said.
Iris’ Story: I Didn’t Know Pain Could Be an Indicator of Metastatic Breast Cancer
When Iris completed treatment for stage 2 breast cancer, she assumed her breast cancer journey was over. But 13 years later, after experiencing unexplained pain, Iris was devastated to learn she had stage 4 (metastatic) breast cancer (MBC). “I had no idea pain could be related to MBC,” Iris said. “I have difficult days, but I don’t look at this as a death sentence. My family me strength, and we’re going to live our lives.”
Wacoal’s 25-Year Commitment to Helping End Breast Cancer
Wacoal has been a partner alongside Susan G. Komen for the last 25 years, providing unwavering support and comfort to women affected by breast cancer. Wacoal’s partnership with Komen began in 1999 with the launch of the Awareness Bra. Then, in 2001, Wacoal launched the Fit for the Cure program. Wacoal has donated more than $6 million to Komen’s direct patient support services since the partnership began and has helped nearly 1 million women with bra fittings.
The Importance of Knowing Your Family Health History
Take control of your health and discuss your family health history with not just your family members, but also your doctor to understand your risk of breast cancer and other cancers. Annamarie’s family health history includes breast cancer on her mother’s side and prostate cancer on her father’s side. Two of maternal aunts are in remission for breast cancer. “I’m like a Venn diagram,” Annamarie said.
Insurance, Copays and Deductibles – O My!
Komen Center for Public Policy is working to pass legislation that would prohibit copay accumulator adjustor programs and copay maximizers – two deceptive insurance practices that hurt patients and increase treatment costs.
Susan G. Komen® Awaits Outcome in Braidwood Management, Inc. et al. v. Xavier Becerra et al.
Oral arguments were held in Braidwood Management, Inc. et al. v. Xavier Becerra et al., and the outcome of the case could prevent millions of Americans from accessing breast cancer screening and services.
Wacoal Employee Understands Firsthand the Importance of Finding the Cures for Breast Cancer
Jacque Faulkner works for Wacoal on the bra fit consultation team. It’s a job she enjoys. “It’s the most magical thing I’ve experienced to help ladies build their wardrobe and have uplifting experiences in the fitting room,” she said. Jacque understands firsthand the importance of finding the cures for breast cancer, and she’s proud to work for a company that partners with Komen.
Wacoal Fit Consultant Sue Smith Knows Firsthand the Importance of Komen’s Work
Sue is proud to work for a company that has supported Komen’s mission to end breast cancer for 25 years. “I was diagnosed shortly after Wacoal started the Fit for the Cure events, so it’s really been full circle for me,” Sue said. “When I was diagnosed, the company really put their arms around me and supported me.”
Coming to Grips with Being Positive for a BRCA2 Gene Mutation
When Suzy learned she had the BRCA2 gene mutation, she sobbed. She has a history of breast cancer in her family and knew she was at higher risk developing breast cancer. Suzy was just 24 when her mother passed away after her second battle with breast cancer.