By Chianti MarksAFRO Intern At the age of 30, Akosua “Sua” Bamfo found a small lump in her breast. It was October 2022. She immediately scheduled an appointment with her OB-GYN. After undergoing an MRI and ultrasound, she was told her breasts were too dense for clear imaging and that they would follow up in […]
Tag: Breast cancer
Fighting back: How three women beat breast cancer– more than once
Three women share their powerful stories of surviving multiple fights against breast cancer. Through faith, family and determination, Tirra Pack, Marcia Victor and Linda Hamilton have turned pain into purpose, proving that survival is more than a medical — it’s spiritual, emotional and deeply human.
Hope, healing and the will to live: Breast cancer survivors tell their stories
By Brandon Henry AFRO Intern For Lisa Johnson, Valerie Fraling and Tiffany Ann Wingate, breast cancer awareness isn’t just a phrase made up of buzzwords– it’s a reminder of their battles with breast cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that “Black people have a lower overall 5-year cancer survival rate than […]
Healing after mastectomy: Two survivors speak on faith, struggle and strength
Two breast cancer survivors share their deeply personal journeys through mastectomy, loss and healing. Clorie Tildon, a woman of steadfast faith, and Millena Smith, who overcame addiction and homelessness, reveal how faith, support and self-acceptance shaped their recovery. Their stories offer raw insight and powerful advice for women facing the emotional and physical challenges of breast cancer
Facing the odds: Women share their journeys with triple-negative, triple-positive breast cancers
Triple-negative and triple-positive breast cancers present unique challenges, with treatment often taking a physical and emotional toll. Women like Tara Doaty, Giovanna Hughes, Marcia Ferrell and Deriece Harrington share their journeys, highlighting the importance of early detection, resilience and support.
A journey through faith, strength and breast cancer survival
Lisa Settles, the only Black female partner at a regional law firm, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012 and used her faith and community to cope with the treatment, keeping a photojournal of her journey and prioritizing her routine.
Postscript for Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Just keep that mammogram appointment
After skipping mammograms for four years, healthcare professional Laurene Scott finally got screened—just as her cousin was diagnosed with breast cancer. Doctors say anxiety, busy lives, and fear often delay screenings, especially among Black women, who remain 38 percent more likely to die from the disease.
Navigating breast cancer: A mother and daughter’s journey of strength
Dr. Michelle Taylor and her mother, Rita Works, shared their breast cancer journeys, emphasizing early detection, family medical history and the power of support. They hope to inspire vigilance and informed care.
Black male breast cancer: Rare, but real
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com Although rare, men are fighters and survivors of breast cancer—especially men of color—who often face less awareness, and worse outcomes. A recent study done by the American Cancer Society found that “breast cancer incidence rates were 52 percent higher in Black men than White men.” Another study demonstrated that even […]
Too young for breast cancer? These stories prove otherwise
Constance “Connie” Chavis was just 36 when she learned she had stage 3 breast cancer, and Brianna Osofisan was only 21 when diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. Their journeys reveal the challenges, resilience and hope of young adults facing a disease often thought to strike later in life.
Links, Incorporated presents free Black Family Wellness Expo in Silver Spring
The Silver Spring Chapter of The Links, Incorporated is hosting a FREE Black Family Wellness Expo on March 21, 2025, aimed at reducing health and economic disparities in the Black community.
American Cancer Society launches largest-ever study to probe disparities in cancer outcomes for Black women
The American Cancer Society has launched the “VOICES of Black Women” study to investigate the disparities in cancer survival rates among Black women, aiming to enroll over 100,000 Black women aged 25 to 55 and track them for 30 years.

