African American Women and Breast Cancer

For those of you who don't know, I am on the board of the Susan G. Komen Foundation Austin Affiliate. One of the reasons I joined the board was because of the major impact of breast cancer on the African American community. African Americans have the highest mortality rate of breast cancer of any ethnic group. As a result, there is a desperate need for early detection. I am working to promote and inform the community about the magnitude of breast cancer and to encourage others to join the fight for the Cure. Getting more African Americans involved in sharing information about breast cancer can save lives. Nationally, Komen has created an advisory council in response to the startling statistics among African Americans. Locally, Komen Austin is conscious about a need to reach out to the African American community and we are asking the community for help.


Last week I had the honor along with Raette Hearne, an African American local breast cancer survivor, of going on KAZI's morning show and speak to the listeners and answer questions about Komen and the fight against breast cancer. We spoke about monthly self examinations, volunteering, and upcoming Komen events including the Race for the Cure and the BMW Ultimate Drive. Our gracious host, Richard Franklin was engaged in the topic. Richard even took a moment to reflect on the concept that men can get breast cancer. Unfortunately, Richard was unwilling to conduct his own self-examination in support of his male listeners.

We received great responses from the show and Komen has been invited to several events anopportunitieses where we can continue to educate and partner with the community. For more information about Komen and/or to locate your local Komen affiliate, go to Komen. If you live in Austin or the surrounding area go to Komen Austin. You can do something good for the Cure!
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In response to a comment from my last blog, my book is inspiritational. Stay tuned . . .
-RXW