MY LIFE Matters - Advocacy in Action - 38

Finding Purpose in Advocacy ADVOCACY FUELED BY PASSION
Advocacy in Action
BY KIMBER HAND-HARRIS
they were not alone in their struggles.
This realization fueled my passion for
advocacy even further.
Fueled by my Indigenous heritage and a
desire to explore my roots, I began writing
for an Indigenous newspaper. As a person
of mixed heritage, I felt a deep connection
to my Native roots and a responsibility
to learn more about the culture and support
Indigenous communities. Through
my advocacy, I shed light on the unique
challenges faced by Indigenous people,
including the disproportionate impact of
cancer within these communities. I sought
to dispel stereotypes, raise awareness, and
foster understanding.
My dedication and passion for advocacy
did not go unnoticed, and I was honored
to be nominated and voted into a two-year
term on the Patient Advisory Committee
(PAC) for the Steven G. Cancer Foundation.
This role allows me to contribute my
insights and experiences to help shape
and improve the foundation's programs
and services. It is a humbling experience
to be part of a collective effort to make a
difference in the lives of cancer patients
and their families.
Most recently, I have joined forces with
A
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dvocacy is not just a hobby or a fleeting interest for me; it is an
intrinsic part of who I am as an INFJ-T (Introverted (I), iNtuitive
(N), Feeling (F), Judging (J), and Turbulent (T)) personality type. It
is a driving force that has only grown stronger over time, especially
after my own battle with cancer. The challenges I faced during my
treatment opened my eyes to the struggles and hardships faced by countless
others in the cancer community, particularly the Adolescent and Young Adult
(AYA) population. Through these experiences, I have come to understand the
power of advocacy in bringing about positive change and raising awareness for
important causes.
Motivated by a burning desire to make a difference, I sought out platforms
where I could amplify the voices of those affected by cancer. That's when I
discovered Elephants and Tea, a remarkable international publication dedicated
to sharing the stories and experiences of AYA cancer survivors. This
was a space where I could not only share my own journey but also connect
with a community of individuals who understood the unique challenges
faced by young cancer patients.
Through my articles, I delved into the depths of this evil disease, exposing
its devastating impact on every aspect of my life. I shared my triumphs
and setbacks, my fears and hopes, with faith that my words would resonate
with others and provide them with solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.
The power of storytelling became evident as I received messages
from readers who found comfort and strength in my words, knowing
MY LIFE MATTERS
ADVOCACY IN ACTION | FALL 2023
the American Indian Cancer Foundation
as a campaign advocate for their Celebrate
Indigenous Life campaign. This initiative
seeks to empower Indigenous people to
reclaim their cultural identity and promote
health and wellness within their
communities. As an advocate, I am working
to raise awareness, mobilize support,
and drive positive change for Indigenous
populations affected by cancer.
Advocacy is not easy; it requires dedication,
resilience, and a deep commitment to
the causes we believe in. But the impact it
can have on individuals and communities
is immeasurable. Through my own advocacy
journey, I have witnessed the power
of storytelling, the strength of community,
and the transformative nature of collective
action. Each step I have taken has brought
me closer to understanding the immense
influence we can have when we lend our
voices to important causes.
As an INFJ-T personality type, advocacy
is not just a passion; it is a purpose. It is
an integral part of my identity, and I am
committed to using my experiences, my
voice, and my platform to fight.
MY LIFE Matters - Advocacy in Action

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