Mammogram Project & Donor Events
Of the many experiences I've had while at my internship site, one of the most memorable ones was being able to participate as a volunteer at the Komen Tissue Bank donation collection events. Engaging in these events allowed me to truly grasp the significance of the work carried out at the Komen Tissue Bank. I felt extremely fortunate to be given the opportunity to participate in two of these events, with April 27th being my third, and having such a hands-on experience.
Being given the Mammogram Project to contribute to, organize, and delegate has shown me how many different tasks contribute to the overall goal of one project. Breast cancer research, specifically within the KTB, involves more than just obtaining a breast tissue sample, but also having the access to a compound of medical history and sample findings.
A primary focus of the Komen Tissue Bank is the emphasis on minority recruitment. Diverse populations are severely underrepresented in breast cancer research studies, despite holding a substantially higher death rate after diagnosis in comparison to white counterparts. (bcrf.org)
Many women of color are fighting breast cancer long before they are diagnosed with it.
Special Thanks
I would like to thank the entire KTB/BC2 team for welcoming me with open arms and creating an environment of trust and collaboration. I would also like to give a special thank you to my supervisors Emily Nelson, Alison Hughes, and Jill Henry. With honorable mentions to Julia von Arx, Dr. Kathi Ridley-Merriweather, and Caitlin Sorgenfrei. I’m extremely grateful for their unwavering support and relentless efforts to my successes and involvement in my academic and secular career.