2010 Sisters for the Cure Gallery
Approximately 1,000 people gathered to be empowered against breast cancer at the 7th annual Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Sisters of the Cure event on December 11.
Preparing for a day of learning, support and access to resources, guests 'fueled up' with complimentary breakfast before the activities began, with the 2010 focus being, 'Your Path to Breast Health. Our Future without Breast Cancer.'
Nearly one hundred dedicated volunteers epitomized teamwork to help create a wonderful event, including Andrea Hines (right) and Valerie Moore, Miss Black USA 2010.
A free event, Sisters for the Cure offered education about breast health and breast cancer, critical resources, and a sisterhood of support, to build a strong network of hope and healing in the African-American Community.
An event that was truly for all ages, mothers, daughters, granddaughters and friends united to take a stand against breast cancer and help create a world without breast cancer for all future generations.
With African Americans having the highest death rate from breast cancer of any other racial/ethnic group, there was learning to be had for everyone as a means to bettering these statistics one life at a time.
Natasha Brown of Eyewitness News on CBS 3/The CW Philly 57 – and a seven-time Sisters for the Cure participant – added her own brand of inspiration to the event, serving as hostess for the morning and afternoon group sessions.
New this year was the 'Power Breakfast,' featuring a panel discussion and Q&A by the Rosenfeld Cancer Center at Abington Memorial Hospital titled 'Uncovering the Truth… What Happens in the Bedroom: Sexuality and Intimacy for Breast Cancer Survivors.'
Celebrated news journalist, national radio personality and co-host of the Tom Joyner Morning Show, Sybil Wilkes evoked the spirit of 'Brotherly Love… and Sisterly Affection' as part of the Komen Circle of Promise, designed to unite African Americans in the cause.
Jeanette Stephens-El, breast cancer survivor and Co-Chairperson of the 2011 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure, inspired and motivated participants to take charge of their breast health.
After the 'Power Breakfast' participants attended their choice of two special group sessions, each focusing on Breast Health Basics plus, 'advanced basics and mammogram assistance' or 'personalized treatment.'
Before and after each session, participants had the opportunity to complete surveys which will be used to analyze the event and help enhance program offerings next year to best meet the changing needs and interests of the community.
Hundreds gathered to hear Mary Daly, PhD, Chair of the Dept. of Clinical Genetics, lead a panel of professionals from Fox Chase Cancer Center who educated women on the importance of breast cancer clinical trials, family history & providing individualizes treatment plans.
At the podium, Nora Katurakes, RN, MSN, OCN, Mgr. of Community Health & Outreach Education at the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center of Christiana Care Health System, introduced the panel for the 'Breast Health Basics' Session.
Covering everything from 'Hats Off for Breast Health' to genetics and assistance for women in need, 'Breast Health Basics' was presented by teams from the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center, Family Planning Council and National Nursing Centers Consortium.
Throughout the day, participants had the opportunity to collect literature to continue their learning and share with family and friends, as well as to discover more about community programs to help them carry out their breast health initiatives.
Dedicated to 'defining the true meaning of sisterhood,' members of the Black Butterflies volunteered their Saturday to help unite the African-American community in taking action against breast cancer.
As always, the staff and management at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown created a highly hospitable atmosphere, going the extra mile to accommodate every need for a powerful, celebratory event.
The Youth Ensemble of St. Stephen's Baptist Church (Y.E.S.S.) opened up the afternoon session with a spirited performance that renewed everyone's energy to take charge of their health and happiness.
Y.E.S.S. left no doubt about the celebration going on at Sisters for the Cure—one filled with family, community, empowerment and faith in the cures for breast cancer.
A cherished tradition at Sisters for the Cure, Reverend Lorina Marshall-Blake of Vine Memorial Baptist Church of Philadelphia, offered the invocation and shared her personal inspirations in the breast cancer movement.
Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, congratulated participants for taking charge of their breast health, then presented the Power of the Promise Community Service Award to The Philadelphia Tribune.
A powerful, spiritual keynote address about advocacy and changing the face of breast cancer was offered by Dr. Byllye Avery, Founder and President of the Avery Institute for Social Change, & Founder of the National Black Women's Health Project.
Keynote speaker, Dr. Byllye Avery, also a Member of Lluminari and a Member of BeWell.Com, received a standing ovation and thundering show of thanks for her inspiring words.
Elaine Grobman presented the Spirit of the Promise Award to volunteer Brenda Wade for her extraordinary efforts to reach out and embrace all African-American women in the education and sisterhood that saves lives.
