Tesha is joined by special guests Vina and Raquel to dive deep into the importance of being a voice for those who can't advocate for themselves and the need to bridge the gap in education and awareness about health issues. The discussion focuses on self-care, body awareness, and the significance of early screenings, particularly in the context of breast cancer.

The conversation also emphasizes the need for community support and celebrates the resilience and determination of cancer survivors. Throughout the discussion, Vina and Raquel share their personal coping mechanisms during cancer treatments and the impact of their experiences on uplifting and supporting others.

This is an episode filled with inspiration, empowerment, and the reminder that no one should have to go through difficult experiences alone. So, tune in and join the conversation!

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:

Raquel "Glammy" Fountain, a Philadelphia native and successful Makeup Artist, faced a pivotal moment in her life at the age of 34 when she bravely battled and conquered Stage 2 Breast Cancer. This transformative experience became the catalyst for her journey as a dedicated advocate for women's health, championing the importance of self-care and early detection. Through her inspiring story of resilience and triumph, Raquel empowers others to prioritize their well-being and listen to their bodies.

Driven by her unwavering faith and the support of her loved ones, Raquel has emerged as a beacon of hope and positivity in the face of adversity. Her advocacy work extends beyond raising awareness about breast cancer to encompass a broader message of self-empowerment and personal growth. With her infectious optimism and determination, Raquel continues to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving a profound impact on the lives she touches.

As a devoted mother to her 15-year-old daughter Nydia, Raquel finds strength and motivation in her family, further fueling her commitment to making a positive difference in the world. Through her journey of resilience, faith, and advocacy, Raquel "Glammy" Fountain embodies the essence of courage and compassion, reminding us all of the transformative power of perseverance and the importance of supporting one another through life's challenges.

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Vina Orden is a 1.5-generation immigrant on Lenape land (New York City). She is a human rights advocate, freelance community journalist, and supports other emerging Asian American writers as senior editor of poetry at SLANT’D magazine. Vina currently is working on her first novel dedicated to young Filipinxs who still don’t see themselves in books and has received fellowships and mentorships from Roots. Wounds. Words., Kweli, Tin House, and the Asian American Writers' Workshop.

She is a survivor, having been diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer and a BRCA-1 mutation in 2022 and HER2-positive brain metastases in 2024.

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.

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