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Breast cancer affects everyone differently, but the struggles and challenges this community experiences are real. We’re talking openly and honestly about just how difficult a diagnosis, treatment and living with metastatic breast cancer can be. Yakima and Lexi are here today to share more of their personal breast cancer stories and how that led them to working for Susan G. Komen. They are also featured in Komen’s new “Don’t Fail The Girls” campaign, which just launched and seeks to make ending breast cancer deaths urgent and front and center for a younger generation. Takeaways Trust your instincts and advocate for your breast health, regardless of age. Accept support from friends, family, and others who understand your journey. Sharing personal stories helps young women feel less alone and find community. Breast cancer treatment decisions require education, self-advocacy, and personal choice. Everyone deserves access to quality breast cancer care, regardless of age, race, or location. Chapters 01:08 – Lexi and Yakima’s breast cancer diagnoses 12:17 – Finding strength through support and community 17:49 – Sharing stories and navigating difficult treatment decisions 28:31 – Living with long-term effects of breast cancer 32:05 – The “Don’t Fail the Girls” campaign and improving access to care Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Imagine spending more than 30 years working in oncology and then suddenly finding yourself on the other side of that conversation. Today’s guest, Lily Cabezon, is a senior physician assistant in urologic oncology. After becoming very sick with COVID in 2020 and losing significant weight, Lily discovered a lump in her breast. Her mammogram revealed a mass that led to a Stage 1 diagnosis. Before beginning chemotherapy, staging scans revealed that the cancer had metastasized to her spine. She went on to undergo chemotherapy, spine treatment, a year of immunotherapy, and a bilateral mastectomy with extensive reconstruction. Lily is here today to talk to us about how she kept going through it all and how breast cancer changed her perspective. After years of telling patients that they had cancer, she suddenly understood what that word meant from the other side—not just for the patient, but for everyone who loves them. We are thrilled to have Lily on Real Pink and in our Don't Fail the Girls campaign this October. Breast cancer is personal for her, and she knows how much is at stake. She’s using her voice to help make breast cancer impossible to ignore and to help drive the research, support and action needed to end it. Takeaways A cancer diagnosis can transform how you understand the patient experience Healthcare delays and barriers can have a profound emotional impact Patients deserve to make informed choices about their own treatment Documenting the difficult parts of treatment can help others feel less alone Chapters 00:01:44 — Lily’s breast cancer diagnosis 00:04:24 — Going from stage one to stage four 00:07:23 — Seeing cancer from the patient’s perspective 00:11:31 — Documenting reconstruction and recovery 00:21:22 — Living with metastatic breast cancer Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

What if a simple at-home DNA test changed the entire course of your life? At 28 years old, today’s guest received a call that revealed she had a high probability of carrying the BRCA1 gene mutation. Genetic testing confirmed it, and suddenly, her family's history of cancer took on a deeply personal meaning. Her aunt, who also carried the mutation, was dying of ovarian cancer at the time. This pushed Margot Casino to make a series of decisions to protect her family's future including undergoing preventive surgeries and IVF with genetic screening. While in the process of taking steps to reduce her risk, Margot was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at just 31 years old. As a wife and a mother to two young boys, she’d already been doing everything she believed she could to protect herself from breast cancer, yet she still heard those dreaded words. Margot is here today to discuss the importance of knowing your family history, understanding your genetics, and paying attention when something feels different in your body. This October, Margot also decided to be part of Komen’s Don't Fail the Girls campaign because breast cancer is personal for her, and she knows how much is at stake. She’s using her voice to help make breast cancer impossible to ignore and to help drive the research, support and action needed to end it. Takeaways Knowing your breast cancer risk can help make an informed decision about your health Support from family and friends help through treatment and serious complications Younger women need to take breast cancer risk seriously Chapters 00:01 — Discovering a BRCA1 mutation 04:40 — Choosing IVF with genetic screening 08:12 — Preventative surgeries and breast cancer diagnosis 16:50 — Treatment, sepsis and recovery 21:47 — Looking forward and helping others Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Welcome to the Komen Health Equity Revolution series on Real Pink — where patients, advocates, researchers and community partners come together to talk honestly about what's standing in the way of breast health equity and what we're doing to change it. I'm your host, Adam Walker. This month is Hispanic Heritage Month, and we're honoring it by talking about something a lot of young women don't expect to be part of their story this early: Needing to have a mammogram as a young adult. Our guest today is Yaleska Sosa, a senior at Northwestern University studying biological sciences and global health, and a Komen College Ambassador. During a routine appointment, doctors found a mass and referred her for a mammogram — an experience that, combined with her family's history of cancer, turned a scare into a mission: making sure other young women, especially in the Hispanic/Latino community, have the information she wishes she'd had. Yaleska, welcome to Real Pink. Takeaway Breast cancer can affect people at any age, even those who consider themselves healthy. Knowing your body can help you notice changes and take action sooner. Family history and cultural experiences can shape how people understand their health. Sharing accessible health information can help young people feel more informed and empowered. One conversation or small act of awareness can have an impact beyond what we may ever see. Chapters 00:01 — Yaleska’s unexpected mammogram 06:00 — Deciding whether to tell her mom 06:47 — Knowing your body and your culture 09:39 — Discovering the impact of breast cancer 13:55 — Encouraging young women to know their bodies Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

When we think about breast cancer, many of us still picture someone much older. But the reality is that young women can—and do—face this diagnosis, even when breast cancer is the furthest thing from their minds. Today’s guest was just 35 years old when her life changed and she suddenly found herself navigating treatment decisions while raising 3 young children. Amanda Lutricuso’s story is a powerful reminder that you’re never too young to pay attention to your body and to speak up when something is wrong. Cancer may have changed the course of her life, it also changed her perspective on what matters most. Key Takeaways Breast cancer can happen at any age, even without family history. A strong family support system can help manage treatment. Young women should advocate for themselves when something feels wrong. Chapters 00:01:19 Finding the lump 00:03:22 Processing the diagnosis 00:08:07 Balancing treatment and motherhood 00:12:29 Chasing every dream 00:16:07 Advocating for your health Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Technology is rapidly changing the world around us – and the same is true in women’s health. Artificial Intelligence holds enormous promise in understanding risk, detecting cancers earlier and improving treatment options and outcomes for breast cancer patients – but how do we get there and what should we be aware of along the way? Today we’re welcoming Jillian Wright, the CEO of Onsite Women’s Health, the leading provider of convenient, in-office breast health imaging services across the U.S., and Jane Perlmutter, a survivor of multiple cancers and devoted member of Susan G. Komen Advocates in Science program, which brings the patient voice to scientific research and clinical decisions. Takeaways AI can improve breast cancer detection and diagnosis AI can make breast imaging more consistent and effective Patients need a voice in how AI is used in healthcare AI must be developed with diversity, privacy and equity in mind Personalized care could reshape the future of breast cancer screening Chapters 00:00 — The promise of AI in breast health 05:12 — Understanding breast cancer risk 10:29 — How AI is transforming breast imaging 19:28 — The concerns around AI in healthcare 24:40 — The future of AI and cancer care Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

The first 30 days after being diagnosed with breast cancer can feel devastating. You’re processing a lot of information, dealing with emotions and often trying to figure out what to do next. Joining us on Real Pink’s 400th episode today is Jennifer Omholt, a journalist and 24-year cancer survivor who was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer when her son was just 16 months old. In the wake of her diagnosis, she desperately searched for something to ease her fear and confusion, but found nothing that offered comfort or clarity. Over the next two decades, she set out to create the resource she wished she’d had, so that no one would need to face the shock of a cancer diagnosis alone. Jennifer is here today to share her story and what helped carry her though her breast cancer experience. Key takeaways: You don’t have to solve cancer all at once; focus on the next best step. Finding the right medical team can make a profound difference in your care. Self-advocacy means asking questions, trusting your instincts, and seeking second opinions. Letting others help can ease the emotional and practical burden of cancer. The fear of a diagnosis can fade as you gain knowledge, confidence, and a sense of control. Chapters 00:01:23 — A stage three diagnosis with a 16-month-old son 00:03:25 — Finding ways to manage fear and uncertainty 00:07:57 — The first 30 days after a breast cancer diagnosis 00:09:59 — Building a medical team you can trust 00:15:07 — Why self-advocacy can change your treatment Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Metastatic breast cancer cannot be cured but it can be treated. Treatment focuses on disease management while maintaining the best possible quality of life. The unfortunate reality is that a treatment will only work for so long, then another one is needed. Joining us today are two women living with metastatic breast cancer who are sharing their experiences, living one treatment to the next. They are tireless advocates for research and the breakthroughs that will ensure their next treatment is available, when they need it. They’re sharing how they live life to the fullest and manage their day-to-day care. Key Takeaways It’s important to find hope while living treatment to treatment Recognize the physical and emotional toll of treatment, even when you look well Advocate for research, clinical trials, and discoveries that lead to better treatments Live in the present, prioritize quality of life, and give yourself grace Chapters 00:00 — Living with metastatic breast cancer 03:25 — The reality of treatment after treatment 07:45 — The emotional weight of uncertainty 13:23 — Why metastatic breast cancer research matters 26:34 — Living in the present and finding hope Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

What happens when your life changes in an instant, and then, just when you think you’re beginning to rebuild, you’re faced with another life-altering diagnosis? Shannon Michelle knows that experience firsthand. After a devastating motorcycle accident left her in a coma with a traumatic brain injury, Shannon had to relearn how to walk, read, speak and navigate a life she no longer remembered. Then, during her recovery, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Today, Shannon joins us to talk about her breast cancer experience, the emotional realities of healing, and how an unimaginable series of events changed the way she sees her life. Key Takeaways Stay present, especially when life feels overwhelming Self-care is essential to recovery Accepting a new reality can be empowering Let go of what you cannot control Give yourself permission to be the best version of yourself today Chapters 00:00 — Surviving a devastating accident 04:30 — A breast cancer diagnosis 07:57 — The PATCH framework for healing 16:50 — Accepting a new reality 23:50 — Letting go of control Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Bret Miller was 17 when he first felt a lump behind his nipple. For seven years, providers told him it was calcium buildup or that it would go away on its own. It didn't. At 24, Bret was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer — a disease most people, including many of the doctors he saw along the way, don't associate with men at all.In this episode, Bret joins his oncologist, Dr. Priyanka Sharma of The University of Kansas Cancer Center, to unpack why male breast cancer is so often missed or overlooked by so many health care providers — and why most men have never been told what normal breast tissue looks or feels like for them in the first place. Together, they talk about what needs to change in clinical training and patient conversations, and what self-advocacy looks like when the system isn't built to catch what you're describing. This episode is part of the Komen Health Equity Revolution podcast series, which centers the lived experience of communities too often overlooked in breast cancer awareness and care — including men. 5 Key Takeaways Men need to know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer A persistent change in one breast should be investigated Nipple discharge can be a warning sign of breast cancer Patients should advocate for themselves and seek second opinions Healthcare providers should take concerning breast changes seriously Chapters 03:10 Bret's Seven-Year Journey to a Diagnosis 10:55 Why Male Breast Cancer Gets Missed 15:09 Knowing What Is Normal for Men 17:11 Turning a Diagnosis Into Advocacy 24:39 How Healthcare Providers Can Close the Gap Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Breast cancer treatment has a beginning and an end, but healing is often a much longer journey. Today, we are joined by Katie Wasserman, a remarkable mother of four who shares how trusting her instincts and advocating for herself led to her breast cancer diagnosis. She will talk about navigating treatment decisions, the impact it had on her body, and the physical and emotional healing that continues today into survivorship. From managing the fears that linger after treatment ends to intentionally choosing a life focused on thriving instead of simply surviving, Katie’s story is a powerful reminder that no one knows your body better than you do. Key Takeaways Trust your instincts when something feels wrong Self-advocacy can lead to life-saving care Asking for help strengthens recovery Small daily habits support healing and resilience Survivorship is about thriving, not just surviving Chapters 00:00 – Trusting your instincts 05:09 – The power of self-advocacy 07:51 – Recovery, support, and staying active 15:04 – Sharing the journey through Instagram 18:27 – Thriving beyond survivorship Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

When multiple loved ones are diagnosed with breast cancer within a short period of time, it can leave you wondering if, and when, it might become part of your own story. Megan May knew her family history meant that she was at greater risk of developing breast cancer. She prepared as best she could and underwent regular screenings. However, her diagnosis at age 40 still came as a shock because there are some things that no one can fully prepare you for. Megan is here today to share her story - how a series of family diagnoses prompted her to begin early screening, what it was like to hear the words no one wants to hear, and the physical and emotional challenges that followed. We'll talk about how why giving back through fundraising has become such an important part of her mission and how her family supports each other through it all. Key Takeaways Family history can help identify when earlier screenings are needed Early detection can allow cancer to be caught and treated quickly Supporting someone with cancer starts with simply being present Knowing your normal and getting screened can save lives Chapters 00:00 – Megan’s family history with breast cancer 02:20 – Starting early screenings 04:04 – Megan’s diagnosis and treatment journey 09:39 – Finding strength through movement and survivorship 14:46 – Supporting family and advocating for early detection Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

Disability and breast cancer intersect in more than one direction. Some people develop long-term effects like lymphedema, neuropathy or cognitive changes because of treatment — effects recognized as disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Others are already living with a disability, of any kind, when a breast cancer diagnosis enters the picture. This July, in recognition of Disability Pride Month, Krista Park Berry, Director of Susan G. Komen’s Breast Care Helpline, returns to Real Pink to talk about how the Helpline supports people through their breast health experience no matter when their disability started, and what that support looks like for women of color in particular. Key takeaways No two disability experiences are the same Disability can exist before or develop after breast cancer treatment The Komen Breast Care Helpline provides personalized support and resources Accessible, whole-person care improves quality of life and health outcomes Chapters 00:00 – Understanding disability and breast cancer 02:08 – Treatment-related disabilities and ADA protections 06:26 – Supporting people living with metastatic breast cancer 08:11 – Navigating breast cancer with a pre-existing disability 12:11 – Health equity, women of color, and closing care gaps 13:36 – Why asking for help can change everything

Artificial Intelligence is buzzy. There’s a lot about it in the news and a lot we think we understand about how to use it and a lot we may not fully understand. But the promise it holds is tremendous, and today we’re going to learn a little more about how it could benefit breast cancer research and patient care in the near future. Drs. Charles Perou at UNC Chapel Hill and Erika Crosby at Duke University are two very accomplished breast cancer researchers who are joining us today to share their perspectives on using AI now and in the future. Key takeaways AI is improving breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Researchers are using AI to save time on coding, writing, and data analysis. AI can help match patients to clinical trials more effectively. Human expertise is still needed to verify AI-generated results. AI has the potential to accelerate research and improve patient care. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to AI in Breast Cancer Research 02:53 — Ethical Considerations and Responsible AI Use 04:33 — Current Clinical Applications of AI 08:12 — How Researchers Are Using AI in the Lab 11:17 — AI Limitations, Mistakes, and Critical Thinking 17:23 — The Future of AI-Assisted Cancer Research Learn more at realpink.komen.org and komen.org Real Pink, by Susan G. Komen, shares real stories and expert insights to support people navigating breast cancer, from diagnosis through survivorship.

We know that clinical trials are a critical lifeline, offering new ways to prevent, detect, diagnose and treat breast cancer. Today, patient advocates are transforming clinical trials by bringing the real-world experiences of patients directly to researchers. By acting as a bridge between science and the community, patient advocates boost enrollment in clinical trials, and help build a lasting trust Today we are speaking with Dr. Lior Braunstein, a radiation oncologist and researcher at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Dr. Ellen Landsberger, a retired OB-GYN and patient advocate, also at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Together they are working on the ARCHER clinical trial, a study that is investigating a new treatment strategy for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. We’ll talk about what they are hoping to accomplish through the ARCHER trial, what their collaborative process looks like and how patient advocates in clinical trials can help improve patient outcomes. Key Takeaways: Patient advocates help design better clinical trials The ARCHER trial aims to improve treatment outcomes Patient voices shape research from the very beginning Clinical trials study both treatment and quality of life Better access helps more patients join clinical trials Chapters 00:00:00 – Why patient advocates belong at the clinical trial design table 00:04:44 – From breast cancer survivor to patient advocate 00:07:46 – How advocates shape research and address patient concerns 00:12:08 – Inside the ARCHER trial and its goal to improve metastatic breast cancer treatment 00:19:03 – Measuring quality of life and improving access to clinical trials 00:26:28 – How patients can become advocates and influence future research