Cat was diagnosed with Stage 2A triple-negative breast cancer in 2022. After six months of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery, she was declared cancer-free. Cat remains deeply grateful for the doctors, nurses, researchers, and administrators at VICC and appreciates the opportunity to give back to the community that saved her life. Cat joined the VICC Breast SPORE as a research advocate in 2024 to be a patient voice in groundbreaking research.
Laura was diagnosed with stage 2B invasive ductal carcinoma in her left breast in 2021 and began treatment on November 9, 2021—her youngest daughter’s third birthday. For three years prior, Laura had missed her mammograms after being advised that pregnancy and breastfeeding made them impossible. Now, as a breast cancer survivor after chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, radiation, and DIEP surgery, Laura advocates for preventive care at every stage of life, encouraging self-exams and early detection through mammograms or ultrasounds.
Michelle was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer in December of 2018 at 45 years old. Even after having three negative mammograms, she thought something was still wrong and brought it to her doctor’s attention. It turned out to be a grade 3 tumor. Michelle is the ultimate advocate for listening to your body and speaking up when you think something isn’t right.
Cyd was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019 and treated by Dr. Ben Park. She had previously been diagnosed with and beaten ovarian cancer in 2013 while living in Southern California. Cyd credits VUMC and her treatment facility in California with saving her life amidst both her cancer diagnoses. She believes that “to whom much is given, much is expected in return,” and being part of the VICC Breast SPORE is her way of giving back.
Cyd is also involved with Breast Connect in the Knoxville, Tennessee area.
After a routine mammogram in June 2019, Carolyn was very surprised to learn that she had HR positive/HER2- breast cancer in her right breast. She shared her diagnosis with her boss and was encouraged to get a second opinion. While her diagnosis remained the same during that second opinion, she found a care team at VICC that she felt very comfortable with and was encouraged by that.
Having taught elementary school for thirty-seven years, Edith retired in 2015. Her inquisitive nature has been the force behind her continued need for learning.
Roberta was diagnosed with stage III ER/PR -, HER2+ breast cancer in 2019, following the birth of her son. Given the timing of her diagnosis, she has a special interest in breast cancer advocacy for the pregnant and postpartum population. Roberta recently joined Bobbie Formula and The Breasties as they advocate for policy change for breast cancer survivors and access to formula for their babies. She has been cancer-free since December 2020 and has now welcomed a second child, a baby girl.
Number of years as a cancer survivor: 10
How many years have you been a VICC research advocate? 8
Why did you become a VICC research advocate?
To improve the decision making and outcomes of future patients diagnosed with cancer.
Number of years as a cancer survivor: 5 years
How many years have you been a VICC research advocate? 3 years
Why did you become a VICC research advocate?
To foster the advancement of cancer research.
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