On Saturday, August 26th, 2023, the serene pathways and lush landscapes of
the Atlanta Botanical Garden came alive with the harmonious blend of music, shared stories, admiration, critical information, and empowerment.
This wasn't just any Saturday; it marked the grand culmination of the NANA Project, an initiative powered by Gilead, aiming to illuminate the journey of Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) survivors.
From the beginning, SisterLove's vision for 'She Wears A Crown' was clear: to provide a public platform for the voices of TNBC survivors, allowing the community to rally behind and learn from these brave sheros.
And the well-attended event did not disappoint!
Along with its event partners, PAF, (Patient Advocate Foundation) and Share, SisterLove provided an engaged, evidence-based, real-talk platform focused on breast health awareness, lived experience, resources, and vital information on how to stay informed about breast health. Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 U.S. women, a rate higher than any other cancer except lung cancer. And for Black women, the statistics are more alarming especially when it comes to TNBC. Overall, the incidence ratios of TNBC are highest among Black women. A 2021 study involving more than 198,000 women found that Black women are 2.7 times more likely to receive a diagnosis of TNBC than white women.
A Symphony of Sounds, Stories, and Knowledge
The soulful tunes of Mausiki Scales and the Common Ground Collective serenaded the afternoon. Their music, echoing through the garden, provided the perfect backdrop for the day. But it wasn't all about feasting and dancing. The event was also an educational hub, providing attendees with crucial breast health news and resources. The importance of early detection, regular check-ups, self-exams, and understanding one's body was emphasized, ensuring that everyone left with more knowledge than they came with.
Interactive Panel Discussion: Sharing, Learning, Growing
Our event featured a diverse panel of breast cancer survivors and subject-matter-experts, consisting of Megan Claire Chase of Share Cancer Support (Atlanta), and Sharon Green, Executive Director of SIS Circles, Inc. (Atl), delved deep into the intricacies of TNBC, the challenges faced by survivors, the way forward, and shared their own lived experience
Moderator, Dr. Sheri Y.Prentiss, MD, MPH, CPS/A, FACPE, Founder and President of LIVE-Today Foundation, Inc. I (Chicago), brought a wealth of experience and knowledge and led a thought-provoking panel discussion.
The interactive nature of the discussion meant that attendees could ask questions, share their stories, and support one another.
A Day to Remember
The breathtaking Atlanta Botanical Garden added to the ambiance.
With its serene landscapes and tranquil environment, it was the ideal location for such a gathering. Aside from the beautiful venue and the riveting panel discussion, there were resource vendors on hand to link those inquiring about breast health wellness resources and vital information.
'She Wears A Crown' was more than just an event; it was a movement. A loving movement that celebrated the courage of TNBC survivors and ensured that their stories were heard in an effort to help others.
Before the event came to an end, it was clear that this was just the beginning. The journey to raise awareness about TNBC, support survivors, and build a community of support and unity will continue. The event wrapped with the best crown (hat) chosen from among the attendees by SisterLove, Founder and President, Dazon Dixon-Diallo, and SisterLove’s own Celebrity Ambassador and Event Designer, Dwight Eubanks.
