In today's episode, "Navigating Treatment Options," host Tesha dives deep into the importance of selecting the right support community and treatment plan. Joined by guest Raenel, a survivor of triple negative stage 2B breast cancer, the conversation explores coping mechanisms such as faith, music, and exercise, and the critical role of finding a compatible healthcare team. We'll discuss holistic approaches, the necessity of thorough consultations, and the emotional aspects of treatment, including the challenges of hair loss and maintaining mental health. With personal anecdotes, practical advice, and encouragement to advocate for oneself, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking guidance and support in their cancer journey. Tune in for an insightful discussion, and remember—you don't have to go through this alone.

A note about our sponsor, Eli Lily!

Hey Baddies! We want to take a quick minute to shout out to our amazing sponsor, Eli Lilly, for supporting our mission on Baddie 2 Baddie! Because of their generosity, we can keep these important conversations about breast cancer awareness and advocacy going strong for our community of WOC. Big love to Eli Lilly for standing with us!

About our guests:

Raenel is a Stage IIB Triple Negative Breast cancer survivor hailing from the suburban town of Frederick, Maryland but has resided in Houston, TX since 2015. Little did she know, shortly after receiving a job offer in the healthcare field, she would be diagnosed with “the bug in her boob.” Raenel’s natural curiosity, “why”mentality or as her dad likes to call her “Nancy Drew” personality would soon prove to be invaluable in her cancer journey. As an analyst by trade, the drive to explore and thoroughly research options served her well. Whether it was the fertility preservation process or choosing to successfully endure scalp cooling, she made sure she was an active participant in her treatment decisions.

You are your biggest advocate! If something doesn’t make sense or you feel right, there might be a better option. Feel empowered to speak up. You are a partner in your treatment journey and your voice deserves to be heard! Fun fact: If you give Raenel “good” ranch, a Stevie Wonder or Bruno Mars playlist, you will be her best friend. Find Rae on Instagram at @Raeelisse and @Raenandraenbows and on Facebook as Raenel Smedley

About For the Breast of Us

For the Breast of Us is the first inclusive community dedicated to supporting women of color affected by breast cancer. Our mission is to amplify the voices, experiences, and needs of this diverse community by providing resources, support, and education tailored to their unique challenges. Each episode of our podcast delves into topics that range from personal survivor stories and expert health insights to advocacy efforts and wellness strategies, all designed to empower and uplift. Join us as we build a vibrant network of support and transform the narrative of breast cancer survivorship for women of color.

• IG & Threads: @forthebreastofus
• Twitter: @thebreastofus
• Facebook: For the Breast of Us @forthebreastofus
• Private Facebook Group: Breast Cancer Baddies
• On the Web: www.breastofus.com

In this special Hispanic Heritage Month episode of "Baddie 2 Baddie," Marissa and Veronica come together to celebrate and highlight the powerful voices within the Hispanic breast cancer community. Marissa, the co-founder and CEO of For The Breast of Us, interviews Veronica, an OG Baddie ambassador and breast cancer survivor, to share her inspirational journey and advocacy work.

Veronica recounts her personal battle with invasive ductal carcinoma, diagnosed in early 2020 during the peak of the pandemic. She delves into her decision-making process regarding treatment options, emphasizing the importance of personal choice in breast reconstruction.

They discuss cultural taboos and barriers within the Hispanic community, especially related to discussing medical history and diagnoses. Veronica offers heartfelt advice for Latinas who face the daunting task of sharing their breast cancer journey with family members.

With a delightful blend of humor and wisdom, Veronica also shares her "Shake Your Booty Friday" tradition, a joyful practice originated with her son that embodies her vibrant spirit and zest for life.

Closing on a high note, Marissa and Veronica touch upon the broader spectrum of advocacy, advice for aspiring advocates, dealing with advocacy burnout, and strategies for organizations to better engage Hispanic and Latina communities.

Join us for an engaging and eye-opening conversation celebrating resilience, choice, culture, and community.

A note about our sponsor, Eli Lily!

Hey Baddies! We want to take a quick minute to shout out to our amazing sponsor, Eli Lilly, for supporting our mission on Baddie 2 Baddie! Because of their generosity, we can keep these important conversations about breast cancer awareness and advocacy going strong for our community of WOC. Big love to Eli Lilly for standing with us!

About our guests:

Marissa, a dynamic Woman of Color and a visionary leader, was diagnosed with breast cancer at the tender age of 35. This life-altering moment led her to co-found “For the Breast of Us” in May 2019, alongside Jasmine Souers, another resilient breast cancer survivor. Their mission was clear: to craft a sanctuary where women of color battling breast cancer could find resources that speak directly to them, shared by voices they could relate to. Marissa is the co-founder and CEO at For the Breast of Us.

Veronica, a resilient woman from San Antonio, Texas, was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma (stage 2b) in January 2020. Being ERPR positive and HER2 negative, she opted for a single mastectomy and underwent active treatment amidst the challenging peak of the pandemic. Battling through a year marked by isolation, she sought reconstruction options and chose an aesthetic flat closure. Her decision was notably influenced by support from the community of For the Breast of Us and the empowering connections made with other flatty baddies. Veronica is a Baddie Ambassador with For the Breast of Us.

About For the Breast of Us

For the Breast of Us is the first inclusive community dedicated to supporting women of color affected by breast cancer. Our mission is to amplify the voices, experiences, and needs of this diverse community by providing resources, support, and education tailored to their unique challenges. Each episode of our podcast delves into topics that range from personal survivor stories and expert health insights to advocacy efforts and wellness strategies, all designed to empower and uplift. Join us as we build a vibrant network of support and transform the narrative of breast cancer survivorship for women of color.

• IG & Threads: @forthebreastofus
• Twitter: @thebreastofus
• Facebook: For the Breast of Us @forthebreastofus
• Private Facebook Group: Breast Cancer Baddies
• On the Web: www.breastofus.com

In today’s episode, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a very special guest, Deb, a Hispanic Latina ambassador and an unstoppable baddie from our community. Join Marissa as she dives deep into Deb’s inspiring journey dealing with metastatic breast cancer since 2018. Despite living in an area with a small Hispanic population and facing numerous health challenges, Deb has built strong connections through online communities and advocacy work.

Deb opens up about the cultural challenges Latinas face in seeking support, the importance of inclusivity within organizations, and navigating the highs and lows of living with cancer. She also shares her experience with advocacy burnout and the crucial need for self-care. Plus, learn about the heartwarming children’s book collaboration, "The Adventure Jar," that Deb contributed to, designed to bring joy to families dealing with cancer.

Tune in for an empowering discussion on resilience, community, and the delicate balance between advocacy and personal well-being. Don’t miss this candid conversation that highlights the strength and spirit of the Hispanic community!

A note about our sponsor, Eli Lily!

Hey Baddies! We want to take a quick minute to shout out to our amazing sponsor, Eli Lilly, for supporting our mission on Baddie 2 Baddie! Because of their generosity, we can keep these important conversations about breast cancer awareness and advocacy going strong for our community of WOC. Big love to Eli Lilly for standing with us!

About our guests:

Marissa, a dynamic Woman of Color and a visionary leader, was diagnosed with breast cancer at the tender age of 35. This life-altering moment led her to co-found “For the Breast of Us” in May 2019, alongside Jasmine Souers, another resilient breast cancer survivor. Their mission was clear: to craft a sanctuary where women of color battling breast cancer could find resources that speak directly to them, shared by voices they could relate to. Marissa is the co-founder and CEO at For the Breast of Us.

Deb Ontiveros is originally from Los Angeles but resides in Southern Utah. She is a Spanish/English Interpreter & Translator. Deb was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in April 2018. She spends her extra time advocating for breast cancer and mental health issues.

Deb's journey with cancer began with a decision to delay conventional treatment to explore natural remedies. When those alternatives didn't yield results, she turned to scientific medical treatment and experienced five years of good health. However, a year ago, Deb sensed something was wrong and subsequent scans revealed two new tumors. Initially suspecting cancer progression, a biopsy revealed it was actually a new diagnosis of hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. Despite these challenges, Deb continues to navigate her health journey with resilience and determination.

You can find Deb online at: IG & Twitter/X @deb4peace247 and Facebook @deb4peace

About For the Breast of Us

For the Breast of Us is the first inclusive community dedicated to supporting women of color affected by breast cancer. Our mission is to amplify the voices, experiences, and needs of this diverse community by providing resources, support, and education tailored to their unique challenges. Each episode of our podcast delves into topics that range from personal survivor stories and expert health insights to advocacy efforts and wellness strategies, all designed to empower and uplift. Join us as we build a vibrant network of support and transform the narrative of breast cancer survivorship for women of color.

• IG & Threads: @forthebreastofus
• Twitter: @thebreastofus
• Facebook: For the Breast of Us @forthebreastofus
• Private Facebook Group: Breast Cancer Baddies
• On the Web: www.breastofus.com