BGFC Magazine October 2025

A Look Back
SURVIVOR STORIES
COVER MODEL BONITA MOORE
SHARES HER STORY + MANY OTHERS
EXPERT ARTICLES
What patients + families should
know
BEAT CANCER IN
THE KITCHEN!
Managing your diet to help fight
cancer
COMMUNITY HEALS
Magazine Founder speaks on
why publications like this matter

Copyright Disclaimer
© 2025 Stiletto Boss Foundation. All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form
or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical
methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher.
BGFC Magazine and its content are produced by Stiletto Boss Foundation to educate,
inspire, and empower individuals and families impacted by cancer. The views expressed
by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.
For permissions, partnership inquiries, or submissions, please contact:
? support@stilettobossfoundation.net
? www.stilettobossfoundation.net
2

Letter from the Editor
By Staci “PurPose” Kirk, Founder & Editor-in-Chief
Dear Readers,
When I first began this journey, I never imagined
how deeply the sisterhood of survivorship would
shape my heart and my purpose. Black Girls
Fighting Cancer was born from a simple but
powerful truth: our stories matter. Our lives, our
voices, our triumphs, and even our tears carry
wisdom that can heal, empower, and inspire others
to keep fighting.
This magazine is more than pages; it’s a movement. Each story you read is a heartbeat
of courage. Every photograph is a poignant reminder that beauty can exist even in the
midst of battle. Every survivor featured here is proof that purpose can rise from pain.
As you turn through this issue, you’ll meet women who’ve faced unimaginable odds
and still found reasons to smile, to give, and to hope. You’ll see that healing isn’t just
physical — it’s emotional, spiritual, and communal. You’ll witness what happens when
Black women come together to hold one another up, share resources, and rewrite the
narrative of what it means to live with and beyond cancer.
At Black Girls Fighting Cancer, we are committed to doing the work. Through our
Warrior Boxes, support line, and survivor-centered programs, our impact is strong,
but we can’t do it alone. We invite you to give to support our initiatives, serve
alongside us as a volunteer, and share our message so that more women can find hope
and help when they need it most.
To every Warrior reading this: you are not your diagnosis — you are your
determination. You are your light, your laughter, your legacy. You are the heartbeat of
this movement.
With love, faith, and fierce gratitude,
Staci PurPose Kirk
Founder, Black Girls Fighting Cancer
Editor-in-Chief, BGFC Magazine
3

Contributors
Thank you to all of the contributors to our inaugural edition of BGFC Magazine.
Our Staff:
Photographer - Nisi Ezell Photography
Administrative Assistant - Tiffany McDonald
Editor in Chief - Staci PurPose Kirk
Staff Editor - Denise West
Advisor - Jasmyne Nicole
Contributing Writers:
Bonita Moore
Celeste Homes-Crenshaw
Carlotta Jackson
Lisha Price
Shermelle Schaffer
Denise West
Dr. Marnae Colston-Jackson
We extend our deepest gratitude to all of our sponsors and donors Your generosity
makes our mission possible. With your continued support, Black Girls Fighting Cancer
can stand beside those navigating the realities of cancer with hope, compassion, and
community.
As we look ahead, we welcome new partnerships and sponsorships that share our
commitment to this cause. The needs of cancer patients and their families continue to
evolve, and with your help, so will we. Together, we can continue to make a lasting
impact in the lives of those fighting an unimaginable battle, reminding them that they
are seen, supported, and never alone.
4

Table of Contents
Survivor Story: Celeste Holmes-Crenshaw 6 - 7
Healing Recipes: Glowing Goddess Bowl 9
Survivor Story: Denise West 10 - 11
Gentle Exercises: Move with Love 14
Improving Breast Cancer Screening & Awareness: Dr. Marnae Colston-Jackson 15
The Value & Importance of Having a Patient Advocate: Shermelle Schaffer 17
Survivor Story: Bonita Moore 18 - 19
Cancer Resource Page 23
Survivor Story: Carlotta Jackson 24 - 25
Survivor Story: Lisha Price 26 - 27

My name is Celeste Holmes-Crenshaw, and I am a Thyroid Cancer Survivor!
I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer on November 25, 2020, after a period of having
what I thought were panic attacks or anxiety episodes. This was the period around
COVID, and I worked in the laboratory at CCF in the main campus. As you can imagine,
working in the lab was an endless and emotional time for anyone working in the
hospital environment. We were always short-staffed, working long hours, and
colleagues were often sick or just called off to take a break from the madness.
With my anxiety, I was either always cold or hot, not sleeping well, and the worst, I
experienced hair loss. All of these things could be due to stress. The hair loss stressed
me out even more, and I started going in with head wraps just to make myself feel
better. I was taken to the side and was told that my head wraps were against policy;
never mind that I was having issues and anxiety over patches of hair missing on my
head. I understood, but working in the lab, I had no contact with patients, and I worked
3rd shift. The manager at that time made it a huge issue. That’s when I decided to start
seeking a therapist.
These sessions allowed me to express and release some
of the anxiety I was experiencing during the shift. My
therapist was very concerned with the hair loss, though,
and suggested I make an appointment to have that
checked out. During my appointment, my doctor
instantly noticed my neck area; she noticed that the area
around my thyroid was enlarged. I didn’t even notice this.
She scheduled me to have an ultrasound within a week.
The outcome of this appointment suggested that I see an
Endocrine specialist. A biopsy was done, and those
results suggested that surgery needs to be done as soon
as possible.
This was both a relief and a concern. Had I not paid
attention to the changes going on with me
or been passive, that I was losing my hair, the outcome
would have been very different. My total
thyroidectomy procedure was done on February 8,
2021. I had a phenomenal team that took very good
care of me. They were very attentive to my concerns,
answered all of my questions, and talked me through
the process before the surgery.
l e s t e H o l m e s - C r e n s h a w
C
e
6

The only negative thing I experienced was the
reactions of my workplace environment. Often, I
would get comments like, “I didn’t look sick” or “you’re
just trying to get out of working”. What exactly was I
supposed to look like, I would ponder? Thankfully, I
was still keeping appointments with my therapist, who
helped me cope with this. She actually had to
prescribe 30 days of FMLA for me before my surgery
due to extreme anxiety (due to the hair loss). She also
prescribed that I wear head coverings during my shift
and secured my recovery period and time off after my
surgery. I wouldn’t have gotten through without this.
I truly believe that as women, we need to pay close
attention to our bodies. We are able to notice changes
to our mood, to our sleep patterns, and to our
appetites. We should be concerned with whether or
not we are isolating ourselves from our families or our
friends. And we need to maintain healthy routines,
whether that involves being outside, going on walks,
and staying connected. Isolation is not healthy. I
should know. Having those therapy sessions prevented
me from staying in bed for hours or even days at a
time. It makes a difference. Also, staying connected
with resources such as the Stiletto Boss Foundation
for support is essential.
Don’t be afraid of reaching out. It isn’t a sign of
weakness. There are others who have or are
walking in the same path you are walking in. Let us not
go through this journey alone. I hope
that my story and others like it can be reached
through the BGFC Magazine. It is a
collaboration of testimonies from women all over, and
even in your backyard. Our voices do
matter. If I can reach one, it would be a true blessing.
God Bless and stay strong, my fellow
Warriors!!
We are disciplined, strategic, and we fight for a
greater purpose.
Celeste Homes-Crenshaw
7

J Good Homes - Making Dreams Come True One Home At A Time
Motivate • Educate • Elevate
Buying or selling a home isn’t just about real estate, it’s about transformation. That’s why I, Juntyna “J Good”
Goodrum, bring energy, knowledge, and heart into every client’s journey. My passion is helping people see
beyond the transaction to the bigger picture: the dream of true homeownership.
Author & Educator
In June 2021, I published J Good’s Guide to Homeownership a reader-friendly blueprint designed for anyone
who desires to own a home. This book breaks down the process step by step, making homeownership not just a
possibility, but a plan.
What Sets Me Apart
I Motivate you with confidence and encouragement.
I Educate you with proven strategies that simplify the process.
I Elevate your journey with support that lasts beyond the closing table.
Whether you’re buying your first home, selling your current one, or preparing for your next move, I’m here to
be more than a Realtor®. I’m your trusted guide, cheerleader, and partner.
Let’s make your dream address a reality.
Contact:
Juntyna “J Good” Goodrum
Juntyna@jgoodhomes.org
773-398-5176
jgoodhomes.org
RE/MAX Transitions

Healing from the Inside Out
A Cancer-Fighting Recipe to Nourish Your Body and Spirit*
Glowing Goddess Bowl (Anti-Inflammatory & Immune-Boosting)
This vibrant, nutrient-rich bowl is filled with ingredients known to help reduce
inflammation, balance hormones, and boost immunity — all essential for those in
treatment or recovery. It’s gentle on the body, easy to prepare, and packed with
flavor and healing energy.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3):
1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice)
1 cup baby spinach or kale
½ cup roasted sweet potatoes
½ cup steamed broccoli florets
¼ cup chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
½ avocado, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1 tsp turmeric (anti-inflammatory superstar)
Juice of ½ lemon
Sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
Sprinkle of flaxseeds or chia seeds (omega-3)
A few pomegranate seeds or berries for antioxidants
Directions:
In a bowl, layer quinoa or rice as your base.
Arrange spinach, sweet potatoes, broccoli, chickpeas, and avocado on top.
Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
Sprinkle turmeric, salt, and pepper.
Gently toss before serving — or keep it layered for a beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Note:
Turmeric and leafy greens help fight inflammation. Sweet potatoes provide vitamin A
for immune strength, and quinoa offers plant-based protein to support recovery.
*Be sure to check with your doctor or care team before making any changes in your diet.
9

D e n i s e Y a t e s - W e s t
What Does Cancer Look Like?
By Denise West
“She doesn’t look like she has cancer.”
That was the rumor that floated around my workplace after my diagnosis in 2013. At
first, those words pierced me. I wondered—what exactly is a person with cancer
supposed to look like? Weak? Bald? Fragile? Broken? The truth is, cancer doesn’t
have a look. It’s not something you can see in a person’s posture, their makeup, or
the smile they work hard to maintain. Cancer looks like strength disguised as
normalcy. It looks like me.
When I was diagnosed, I was a high school teacher in Northeast Ohio—a wife,
mother, stepmom, nana, sister, and friend. I had no family history of breast cancer
and had never missed a routine mammogram. I lived what I thought was a balanced,
healthy life. But cancer doesn’t follow rules, and it doesn’t check your calendar
before it interrupts your world.
I remember sitting in that cold examination room, the sterile smell of alcohol wipes
in the air, the doctor’s words blending into a fog.
My mind immediately went to my students. How
would I tell them? How could I keep being “Mrs.
West,” the teacher who greeted them with
energy, even when I barely had enough to get
through the day?
But I wasn’t alone. My husband was my rock. My
children and grandchildren surrounded me with
love. My friends and family checked in
constantly, and my students gave me the best
medicine of all—purpose. They reminded me
daily that I still had work to do, lives to touch,
and lessons to teach. Their smiles pulled me
through some of my darkest days.
As a licensed cosmetologist and former salon
owner, I’ve always believed that when you look
good, you feel good. But during chemo, that
belief was tested. I didn’t always recognize the
woman staring back at me in the mirror.
10

My hair was gone, my energy waned, and even
simple tasks like dressing for appointments
became emotionally draining.
Outpatient treatments were surreal. You’d walk in
wearing your regular clothes, sit among strangers
who shared your battle, and let the nurses hook
you up to machines that quietly dripped medicine
into your body. You weren’t in a hospital gown—
you were in jeans or slacks, t-shirts or tops—just
trying to hold on to your “normal.”
Years later, after my treatment ended, I found
myself reflecting on that experience. I realized
that what was missing wasn’t just comfort—it was
confidence. That’s when I was inspired to create
Empowered Ease, a line of chemo transition
blouses designed to provide easy access to medical
ports without sacrificing style or dignity. These
garments aren’t meant to replace hospital gowns;
they’re meant to replace the feeling of losing
yourself in the process.
Each blouse tells a story of resilience. They’re soft, stylish, and functional—perfect for someone who
wants to walk into treatment feeling empowered, not defeated. I market them as the perfect gift for
someone going through treatment because I know firsthand how much a small act of comfort can
mean. Empowered Ease is about reclaiming your identity, even when life tries to rewrite it.
Cancer forced me to create a new normal. It taught me patience, humility, and the art of stillness. It
stripped away what didn’t matter and magnified what did—faith, family, love, and the power of
showing up for yourself.
So, what does cancer look like? It looks like courage. It looks like hope wrapped in a headscarf,
laughter in a waiting room, and determination behind tired eyes. It looks like every woman who
refuses to let diagnosis dictate destiny.
It looks like me—a Black Girl Fighting Cancer and winning in her own elegant way.
Because healing doesn’t mean hiding. It means standing tall, wearing your strength with style, and
reminding the world that there is no one way to look like a survivor.
Denise Yates-West
11

AJ’s Power Pages
Created by a Young Author, Built to Inspire Kids Everywhere
Meet Andre “AJ” Goodrum, a passionate now 11-year-old who turned
his love for football, family, and life lessons into powerful children’s
books. At just 10 years old, AJ became a published author, proving
that kids can achieve big dreams when they believe in themselves
and put in the work.
Through his stories, AJ motivates kids to dream bigger, push
through challenges, and see the possibilities within themselves. His
books aren’t just fun to read; they inspire growth, confidence, and
courage.
Lessons Kids Will Learn:
How to overcome challenges and setbacks
The value of teamwork, family, and community
Financial awareness and smart decision-making
Turning passions into purpose
Believing in themselves and their dreams
Available Now on Amazon!
Just search Andre Goodrum to grab your copies today!

Move With Love:
Gentle Exercises for Cancer Warriors*
The Morning Stretch (5 minutes)
Goal: Increase flexibility and ease stiffness.
Sit or stand tall, take a deep breath in, and reach both
arms overhead.
Gently roll your shoulders back and down.
Tilt your head side to side to release neck tension.
Finish with 3 deep belly breaths — inhale peace, exhale
stress.
Best for: fatigue, post-treatment muscle tightness,
grounding the day
The Warrior Walk (10–20 minutes)
Goal: Boost circulation and energy.
Walk at your own pace — inside your home, around
your yard, or at the park.
Focus on breathing rhythmically: in through your nose,
out through your mouth.
Use this time to listen to affirmations, music, or nature.
Best for: rebuilding stamina and mental clarity
Chair Yoga Flow (10 minutes)
Goal: Gentle movement for limited mobility.
Sit tall in a sturdy chair, feet flat.
Inhale and lift your arms, exhale and fold slightly
forward.
Twist gently to each side, holding onto the chair back
for support.
End with hands over heart — whisper, “I am strong, I
am healing.”
Best for: recovery days, balance, and relaxation
*Be sure to check with your doctor or care team before starting any exercise regime.
14

Improving Breast Cancer Screening and
Awareness in the Glenville Community 44108
Dr. Marnae Colston-Jackson, DNP, MBA, MHA, BSN, RN
Background
Breast cancer disparities
remain to be a significant
health concern, particularly
among African
American women in
underserved communities.
The Glenville community
44108 experiences
lower mammogram
screening rates and limited
access to preventive care
resources. This project
addresses these disparities
through targeted screening
initiatives and culturally
tailored
educational programs.
Methods
A mixed-methods approach
was used to assess the
effectiveness of the
intervention:
Quantitative: Pre- and postintervention
surveys, health
service usage data, and
mammogram screening
rates.
Qualitative: Community
feedback from focus
groups and structured
interviews.
A goal-based evaluation
model was used to measure
a 25% increase in screening
rates and improved
awareness within one year.
Results
Preliminary findings
show an increase in
screening rates of 22%
within the first six
months.
Community awareness
improved, with 75% of
participants showing
increased knowledge of
breast cancer risk
factors and prevention.
Enhanced screening
tools and tailored
education significantly
improved engagement
and access to care.
Conclusion;
Implications
This project underscores
the effectiveness of
community-specific
interventions in addressing
Breast cancer disparities.
Implementing culturally
appropriate education and
screening strategies leads
to early detection and
improved health outcomes.
The findings provide a
replicable model for similar
underserved communities.
Continued research in
other zip codes and
funding are essential to
sustain and expand these
initiatives. A collaboration
with the University
Hospitals of Cleveland and
Cleveland Clinic Hospitals
will help show areas that
can benefit from the use of
the mobile mammogram,
increasing awareness and
decreasing breast cancer
healthcare disparities.
15

Where Leadership Meets Sisterhood.
At Stiletto Boss Foundation (SBF), we believe that sisterhood is strategy.
We are a community of women and girls walking boldly in leadership, service, and selflove.
Together, we are rewriting what it means to lead—with compassion, confidence,
and collaboration.
As a member of SBF, you’ll join a powerful network of women who are building
businesses and personal brands rooted in purpose, leading community initiatives that
create real impact, learning skills in leadership and philanthropy, and supporting one
another through mentorship and sisterhood.
From local SisNation chapters to national events like the Warrior Symposium and
Women’s Health Day, SBF members don’t just show up—they stand up for each other.
Why Join
Leadership Development: Gain access to workshops, mentorship, and growth
opportunities designed to help you lead with confidence.
Community Impact: Be part of programs that serve youth, survivors, and families
through outreach and volunteerism.
Sisterhood & Support: Build lifelong bonds with women who believe in your vision,
cheer for your wins, and walk beside you through life’s battles.
How to Join
Membership is open to women ages 18 and up who want to grow, serve, and connect.
Complete your application today and step into a sisterhood that empowers you to lead
in heels, heart first.
Apply at: www.StilettoBossFoundation.org
Follow us: @TheStilettoBossFoundation
Walk with purpose. Lead with love. Serve with style.
16

The Value and Importance of
Having a Patient Advocate
Shermelle Schaffer
Navigating the healthcare system can feel overwhelming. Between complex
terminology, rushed appointments, paperwork, and tough decisions, many patients
struggle to understand their options fully.
What Is a Patient Advocate?
A patient advocate is someone who helps individuals understand, navigate, and manage
their healthcare. They attend appointments, ask clarifying questions, coordinate care,
review bills, and help patients understand their rights.
Why Patient Advocacy Matters
Improved Communication: Advocates ensure questions are asked, explanations are
clear, and no detail is overlooked.
Better Health Outcomes: Patients with advocates often follow treatment plans and
achieve better results.
Emotional Support: Advocates provide encouragement and reassurance during
stressful times.
Navigating Insurance and Finances: Advocates help review bills, appeal claims, and
reduce costs.
Empowerment and Confidence: Patients feel heard and supported in making
choices that align with their needs.
Who Can Benefit?
Elderly patients managing multiple conditions.
Patients with chronic or serious illnesses.
Families of children with medical needs.
Anyone facing a new diagnosis.
Final Thoughts
Having a patient advocate can transform a confusing process into one where patients
feel informed, supported, and in control. Advocacy ensures dignity, safety, and the best
possible outcomes.
17

Bonita Moore
Finding Strength in the Storm
My Breast Cancer Survival Story
I was only 34 years old. And on March
20, 2023, my life changed forever. I was
diagnosed with stage 1 hormonepositive
breast cancer—a diagnosis that
came as a complete shock. I had no
symptoms. No lumps. No warning signs.
In fact, the only reason we even
discovered 16 the cancer was because I
had a stroke.

In a strange twist of fate, what could have been the worst day of my life turned out to be a lifesaving
one. If not for the stroke, I wouldn’t have undergone the tests that revealed the cancer.
It’s a hard truth to sit with—how one medical crisis led to the discovery of another. But as
painful and frightening as it was, that moment may have saved my life.
The diagnosis came with a flood of emotions: disbelief, fear, confusion, and an overwhelming
sense of vulnerability. Because my cancer was caught early and was hormone-positive, I didn’t
need chemotherapy or radiation. Instead, my treatment plan involved a double mastectomy with
implant reconstruction.
Even though I was grateful to avoid the more aggressive treatments, surgery brought its own
trauma. Losing both breasts—even when it’s a medical necessity—doesn’t come without
emotional cost. I wasn’t just healing from cancer; I was grieving the loss of a part of myself. I
looked in the mirror and didn’t recognize the woman staring back. I felt like a stranger in my
own skin.
That disconnection from my body quickly turned into something darker: depression. It wasn’t
just sadness—it was a suffocating weight that made it hard to get out of bed, to eat, to talk, to
care. I couldn’t reconcile the fact that I had survived something so terrifying and yet felt so
empty inside. There were moments I didn’t think I’d make it. Moments when I didn’t want to.
At my lowest point, I attempted to take my own life.
It’s not easy to admit that, but it’s part of my truth. And if you’re reading this and you’ve been in
that place—or you’re there now—I want you to know that you’re not alone. Depression after
cancer is real. It’s not weakness. It’s not ingratitude. It’s pain, and it deserves compassion and
care.
What helped pull me back was a mixture of things: therapy, time, the love of people who refused
to let me go, and the small, slow rebuilding of my relationship with myself. Healing isn’t a
straight line. There are setbacks. There are days you feel strong and others you don’t. But
eventually, I began to reclaim pieces of myself—not just the old me, but the new me too. The one
who had endured something unthinkable and still found the courage to move forward.
Today, I am cancer-free. But more than that, I am here. I am alive. And I am learning to love this
new version of myself—scars, implants, and all. I have been to the edge of what I thought I could
bear, and I made it through.
Cancer changed me. It forced me to look inward and confront not just the disease in my body,
but the pain in my heart. It taught me that healing is more than physical. It’s emotional. It’s
mental. It’s spiritual. And sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is simply keep going.
To anyone facing a diagnosis, undergoing treatment, or struggling with life after cancer—your
feelings are valid. Your pain is real. And your survival is a victory, even on the days it doesn’t feel
like one.
This is not just a story about breast cancer. It’s a story about survival in every sense of the word.
And if you’re still here—reading this, breathing, fighting—then you are surviving too.
I believe that this magazine will begin to show others that cancer does not discriminate. It will
show others who look and feel like me that this disease can touch anyone at any time. It will
show there is hope and there is victory at the end of this.
Bonita Moore 19

U R V IV O R S
A R R I O R S
A R R I O R
T H R IV E R S
U R V IV O
T H R IV E R
U R V IV O
T H R IV E R
S U R V I V O R S . T H R I V E R S . W A R R I O R S .
R O A

Email:
support@stilettobossfoundation.net

CANCER RESOURCES
Care and Support for: Patients. Families. Communities
FINANCIAL
ASSISTANCE
Facing treatment can bring
unexpected expenses. These
organizations help ease the
financial burden so patients
can focus on healing.
Pink Fund – Covers essential non-medical bills for patients in
active treatment. pinkfund.org
CancerCare – Offers co-pay assistance, transportation grants,
and counseling. cancercare.org
Breast Cancer Fund of Ohio – Provides emergency assistance
to Ohio residents in treatment. bcfohio.org
JD Breast Cancer Foundation – Northeast Ohio nonprofit
helping with utilities, groceries, and prescriptions.
jdbreastcancer.org
Josette Beddell Memorial Foundation – Grants for families
facing financial hardship during cancer care.
josettememorial.org
Cancer Support Community – Free groups, workshops,
and survivorship programs (virtual and local).
cancersupportcommunity.org
CancerCare – National online and in-person groups led
by oncology social workers. cancercare.org
OhioHealth & Summa Health Support Groups –
Programs for newly diagnosed patients, survivors, and
young women.
BGFC Support Circles – A community of sisterhood and
strength for women of color navigating survivorship.
SUPPORT +
COMMUNITY
Healing is more than medical
treatment—it’s connection,
care, and conversation. These
groups offer safe spaces for
emotional and peer support.
MEDICAL
GUIDANCE +
SECOND OPINIONS
Knowledge is power. These programs
connect patients with trusted
specialists and quality care resources.
Cleveland Clinic Breast Center – Comprehensive care,
second opinions, and virtual consultations.
clevelandclinic.org
OSUCCC–James Cancer Hospital – Patient navigation,
support services, and clinical trials. cancer.osu.edu
ODH Breast & Cervical Cancer Project (BCCP) – Free
screenings and navigation for eligible Ohio women.
ADVOCACY +
EDUCATION
Stay informed, empowered,
and connected to the larger
fight for awareness and
equality in cancer care.
American Cancer Society (ACS) – Offers patient services,
lodging, and advocacy. cancer.org
National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS) –
Policy advocacy and survivorship education.
canceradvocacy.org
Black Girls Fighting Cancer (BGFC) – Advocacy, survivor
storytelling, the Warrior Support Line, and care initiatives.
stilettobossfoundation.net

My name is Carlotta Jackson, and in June 2021, at
the age of 50, my life changed in ways I could never
have imagined. As a frequent traveler, I had planned
to continue living my best life, visiting family from
state to state, enjoying time with my two children
and four grandchildren. But all of that came to a
standstill when I was diagnosed in my right breast
with HER2-positive, Stage I aggressive breast
cancer.
Those words could have broken me, but instead,
they became the beginning of my walk of faith
through the fight. I realized I had to prepare myself
not only to fight this disease but also to share the
news with my family and those closest to me.
Nothing could have prepared me for the road ahead.
Suddenly, my days were filled with appointments,
scans, and countless tests. Each step felt
overwhelming, yet deep within, I knew God was
calling me to walk in faith and not fear.
What made this battle more difficult was the timing.
I was diagnosed in the midst of the COVID-19
pandemic. Treatments already take a toll on a
person, but the pandemic added isolation. Masks
and heavy protective gear hid the faces of the very
people helping to save my life. Nurses and doctors
often entered my room in what looked like
“spacesuits.” I never got to see a smile, and at times
it felt as though I was untouchable, severely
diseased, and completely alone. Where lobbies
would be empty and there would not be other
patients to seek help or advice from. To make
matters harder, the oncologist who had previously
treated me in 2017, when I survived a blood clot on
my brain, left the hospital just as my chemotherapy
was beginning. It was in those moments that I came
to truly understand the weight of the word “FIGHT.”
24
C
a r l o t t a J a c k s o n

I had to fight in every aspect. Fight for financial assistance to help cover medical bills, medicine, and to
keep a roof over my head. Fight to be heard and understood by my family and medical team when I was
too weak to speak for myself. Fight to make sense of what was happening to my body, losing my taste, my
smell, my energy, and even my will to move from one day to the next. Cancer didn’t just attack my body;
it challenged my faith, perseverance, and my identity.
But in the middle of it all, I learned that God’s strength is made perfect in weakness. I held onto
scriptures like Proverbs 3:5 – 6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own
understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Even when I
couldn’t see my way, I believed that God was making a way. Prayer became my lifeline. There were nights
when tears were my only words, but I knew He heard me.
I leaned on my community when family walked away. Church members and friends found ways to
support me, sometimes through a phone call, a meal at the door, or simply lifting me up in prayer when I
couldn’t pray for myself. Their love reminded me that while cancer tries to isolate, faith and fellowship
shine through.
This journey has taught me more than I ever imagined. I learned that healing is not only physical, it is
emotional, mental, and spiritual. I learned that vulnerability is not weakness, but a doorway to God’s
strength. And I learned that my testimony is not just for me; it is a testimony meant to encourage
others. Cancer does not discriminate; it touches people of every age, gender, race, economic status, or
profession. That is why I created my platform, Cancer Up Close. Cancer Up Close gives people the
opportunity to see the realities of this journey, not from a distance, but up close and personal through
the eyes of a black woman. It is my way of educating, encouraging, and walking alongside others who
may feel unprepared for the battle ahead. When I was first diagnosed, no one told me how much of a
fight it would be, not just physically, but in every area of life. Through Cancer Up Close, I shine a light on
the unseen struggles as well as the victories, so that others can find hope and know they are not alone. I
have also been blessed to share on ministry platforms, with organizations, and on social media, using
every opportunity to share what cancer really looks like and to remind others that there is life and
purpose beyond the diagnosis.
This is why I believe so strongly in the power of this magazine. It gives people like me the chance to
share our testimonies, stories of faith, resilience, and determination to keep going. Stories that bring
hope to someone sitting in a treatment chair or comfort to a family member watching their loved one
fight.
Today, I come standing, trusting in God’s faithfulness on this journey. My journey is far from over, but I
know that GOD is using it for a greater purpose. If my testimony and my platform, Cancer Up Close, can
help heal even one heart, lift one spirit, or remind one person that they are loved, then my fight has not
been in vain.
Cancer gave me scars, beat me down pretty bad, but it also raised my praise and gave me a voice. With
this voice, I will keep fighting!! Not only for myself, but for those who are no longer with us, their legacy
lives on, and others who need to know that faith is the greatest weapon we have, but it remains
powerless if left unused.
Carlotta Jackson
25

Stomping out cancer, stepping into my future.
Model: Lisha Price, Breast Cancer Survivor
Photo: Nisi Ezell
Location: MOCA
24
My name is Lisha Price, and I’m 63 years old. Reflecting on my journey as a
four-year Breast Cancer Warrior and Survivor, I am reminded daily of the
strength demanded from me—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
My story began on February 26, 2021, with a moment of pain that led to a lifechanging
discovery.

That afternoon, while talking with my husband Ben, I felt a sharp pain in my left breast. Guided by
instinct, I performed a self-exam and found a lump. Ben confirmed it and urged me not to wait for my
annual mammogram but to contact my OB-GYN immediately. Thanks to his encouragement, I messaged
my doctor right away. By Wednesday, she had examined me, discovered several lumps, and scheduled a
diagnostic mammogram. The results, which came the next day, showed abnormalities, leading to a
biopsy the following week. The biopsy was frightening and painful; I cried through the procedure,
sensing what was to come. The medical staff showed patience and compassion, helping me through
each step. Two weeks later, on April 12, 2021, I received the call: my biopsy was positive for breast
cancer. I broke down on the phone, but the nurse reassured me—it was caught early, I could survive
this, and I needed to follow the doctors’ orders. The fear was overwhelming; all I could think was, “Why
me?” Ben rushed home to comfort me, holding me as I cried. That same day, I gathered my immediate
family—my three adult children, siblings, Auntie, and best cousin—at my house. I shared everything I’d
been through over the past six weeks. We wept together, prayed, and promised to support one another
through what lay ahead. What followed was an exhausting whirlwind of appointments, tests, and
treatments. My oncologist diagnosed Stage 2 Invasive Mixed Ductal Lobular Carcinoma HER2+. It was
terrifying, but catching it early meant there was hope.
I began chemotherapy on May 12th, with my final treatment on September 17th. Chemo was brutal on
my body: mouth sores, rashes, blackened nails, everything tasted metallic. The hardest blow was losing
my hair after the second treatment. Ben gently removed my braids and took me to his barber to have
my head shaved. I grieved and felt anger and despair. My pastor called and reminded me, “Why not you?
This will be your testimony.” Gradually, I found peace and focused on healing. Sixteen rounds of chemo
left me hospitalized twice, the first time for neuropathy so severe I needed a walker. Medication
helped, but I still live with neuropathy and some lymphedema. I underwent two surgeries—one after
Thanksgiving 2021 to remove remaining tumors, and another in January 2022 to remove 17 lymph
nodes, of which ten were cancerous. Thirty rounds of radiation followed. In January 2022, I was told I
was cancer-free—praise God! But as many cancer survivors know, the journey never truly ends. I
continued with bone density and heart tests, learning that chemo had damaged my heart and left me
with Chemo-Induced Cardiomyopathy. My heart doesn’t pump like it should; I now live with PVCs
(Premature Ventricular Contractions), requiring more doctors, medications, and tests.
Fatigue, dizziness, appetite loss, swelling, coughing, and abnormal heart rhythms became my new
reality. I monitor my blood pressure, heart rate, and weight every day. I underwent a heart ablation,
which reduced the PVCs but not enough; another procedure or pacemaker may be in my future. Despite
everything, I take one day at a time, grateful for every moment. Some days are good, some are difficult,
but through it all, I am still here by God’s grace and mercy.
Throughout this journey, I learned the importance of faith, self-advocacy, asking questions, and leaning
on a strong support system. Ben and my family have been steadfast blessings, lifting me up and giving
me the courage to continue. Support groups and sharing my story became a lifeline; together, we wove
a tapestry of courage and hope. I rediscovered joy in small things—sunrises, laughter, family moments—
and found new ways to heal, both body and spirit.
I feel BFGC will give other breast cancer fighters the strength to keep fighting. Being a warrior means
persevering through every challenge and loving fiercely. My journey continues—sometimes uncertain,
always hopeful. If my testimony inspires even one person to persist, then every tear, scar, and triumph
has meaning. To all who are fighting: you are not alone. Trust your inner strength, lean on loved ones,
and know that brighter days are ahead. This, too, can become your testimony.
Lisha Price
27

Coloring Through the Journey:
A Coloring and Mindfulness Series to Support Families Through
a Cancer Diagnosis
by Staci PurPose Kirk

S T I L L S TA N D I N G
We are the bloom after the storm,
the soft made strong, the faith
reborn.
Scars turned stories, pain turned
praise.
We walk in grace, unshaken, amazed.
Once bowed by battle, now crowned
in light.
We carry hope through every fight.
Linked in love, our hearts aligned,
we’re proof that miracles take time.
So here we stand, unbroken, whole,
living testimonies, body and soul.
Survivors! Sisters! Warriors!
Our Spotlight Survivors + Founder of BGFC Staci PurPose Kirk
Faith made us fierce, and God
brought us through.
“We Celebrate Every Survivor & Honor Every Fallen Angel No Matter What Type of Cancer, We Are
All in this TOGETHER!” - Staci PurPose Kirk