An estimated 19,540 new cases of breast cancer are expected to occur among African American women in 2009

 

The overall incidence rate of breast cancer is 10% lower in African American women than white women.

 

African American women have a five year survival rate of 77% after diagnosis as compared to 90% for white women.

 

Source: American Cancer Society, Cancer Facts

& Figures for African American 2009-2010

 

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OUR STORIES

 

“……….five year survivor. The organization has been a safe haven for me. I look forward to the National conference each year. During my treatment, there were so many days I wanted to give up. My Sisters’ helped me so much."

 

G. Dorsey

Baton Rouge, LA

"Being an 8 year survivor, Sisters Network® Inc. has personally been an inspiration for me to help others in the community by providing education and financial support. I have learned not to just survive but to overcome! To do this my involvement with this organization has made it possible for me to live the mission of Sisters Network® Inc. that has become a vital part of my existence."

 

Rachel Kirk

President

Northeast Ohio Chapter

"I was diagnosed with stage II TNBC in February’02 (two months after receiving a mammogram). I discovered the lump myself and thought I was alone in this journey. I proceeded through treatment with a lumpectomy, chemotherapy, radiation and 5 years of maintenance meds. What a trip! But, I am a survivor! I attended my first Sisters Network, Inc. conference in 2003, and have not missed one since. It was a humbling and empowering experience and my life has not been the same since the first conference. I didn't have a clue so many African American women had breast cancer because it was not publicized. I guess I was naive too, but I had no interest in breast cancer prior to my diagnosis. I was forced to face my mortality and it scared me. My participation with Sisters Network, Inc. has given me the momentum to do everything I can to advocate awareness, early detection, survivorship and a cure for breast cancer. My heart breaks each time I hear of a cancer diagnosis, recurrence or the loss of a sister. The silence has to end. It's time for a cure NOW!"

 

Gloria K. Dorsey

Baton Rouge, LA

7 1/2 year survivor