MY LIFE Matters - Advocacy in Action - 37

EQUITY IN HEALTHCARE Advocating for Health Equity
Inclusion, Care & Equity Matters
to ALL OF US
BY SHANDA COOPER
C
ancer advocacy holds a deeply
personal place in our hearts. If
you are reading this article, it is
highly likely that you have been
touched by a cancer diagnosis.
The weight of that moment when a loved
one's life changes forever is something that
never truly fades. It is an experience that
forces one out of their comfort zone and
solidifies their space in cancer advocacy.
Advocacy is not only a concept, but a lifeline
while weathering the emotional storm of a
cancer diagnosis. In recent years, the call for
embracing diversity, equity, inclusion, and
belonging in cancer advocacy has echoed
loudly in both physical and virtual spaces.
We have witnessed firsthand how this inclusive
approach transforms lives through
increased clinical research and patient representation
on panels at scientific conferences.
Our interactions with various individuals
within the cancer community have shown
that different backgrounds, cultures, and
circumstances can significantly impact how
cancer is experienced and treated.
Tigerlily Foundation has intentionally
engaged with incredible individuals who
have defied odds and shown remarkable
resilience in their battles against cancer.
Their stories have made it abundantly clear
that a one-size-fits-all approach simply
doesn't suffice. Each person's journey is
unique. By acknowledging our differences
and curating advocacy efforts to encompass
a spectrum of experiences, we create
a more effective and compassionate support
system.
However, this journey toward inclusivity
isn't without its challenges. Members of the
Tigerlily Foundation community witnessed
how biases and stereotypes can subtly
permeate even the most well-intentioned
initiatives. Overcoming these obstacles
requires concerted effort and
unwavering commitment.
Education and awareness
have proven to be potent
tools, slowly dismantling
m i s c on c e p t i on s a nd
paving the way for change.
Col laborat ive efforts-
bringing together patients,
ca reg ivers , hea lt hca re
providers, and advocates-
have demonst rated the
s t reng th of un i t y in
amplifying voices and driving progress.
One of the most important tools in our
cancer advocacy toolkit is the transformative
impact of patient-centered care.
It is clear that the multifaceted benefits
of a comprehensive diversity, equity, and
inclusion (DEI) approach extends beyond
improved statistics. Ultimately, the " why "
behind cancer advocacy is infused with
intention and personal experience. It's
about making the journey less intimidating,
uncertain, and isolating. Our " why "
is about building a future where every individual,
regardless of their background,
finds solace in a community that understands,
embraces, and supports them.
Inclusion, Equity, and Care Matters to
ALL OF US, and at Tigerlily Foundation,
seats are always available at our table. We
have various engagement opportunities,
including our quarterly X (formally Twitter)
chat and Pull Up a Seat conversation
series. This educational, non-traditional
discussion not only allows panelists to
have a voice but it spreads information
and educates across the digital universe.
Each X chat welcomes participants to engage
with patient experts and healthcare
professionals on a health-equity related
topic. Using the #TLFtransform, we encourage
participants to add their voices
to the conversation, receive resources, and
be part the cancer advocacy community.
Our #PullUpASeat conversation is a bidirectional
conversation series, co-hosted
by underrepresented patient experts and
medical professionals coming together to
discuss a topic and determine actionable
solutions to barriers in care. Throughout
2023, we have discussed: mental health,
oncofertility, breast cancer awareness,
survivorship, and biomarker testing.
Active involvement in health advocacy
stands as a pivotal force in dismantling the
barriers perpetuating health inequities. By
lending our voices, expertise, and determination
to the cause, we can challenge
systemic disparities, amplify the needs of
marginalized communities, and push for
policy changes that prioritize equitable access
to healthcare, education, and resources.
Each step we take in this journey brings
us closer to a world where every individual,
regardless of their background, can enjoy
the fundamental right to optimal health
and well-being. Join Tigerlily Foundation
in our commitment to eradicating health
inequity, sign our #InclusionPledge, and
join one of our Pull Up a Seat or X chats.
Get involved! l
MY LIFE MATTERS
ADVOCACY IN ACTION | FALL 2023
37
MY LIFE Matters - Advocacy in Action

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