The theme of A Calendar to Live By 2022 is Perseverance. All 12 women who grace its pages have honest, inspiring stories of perseverance to share with readers -- as well as words of advice for other young women newly diagnosed with breast cancer. Read on to get to know more about Ms. December 2022.
Ms. December 2016 | Diagnosed at 40 (2013)
Dionne's breast cancer diagnosis in 2013 led her to become a voice for other women with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Since then, she has also become a voice for underrepresented people in her community, a role that has become a true passion and has taught her the power of perseverance. After her treatment, Dionne joined two nonprofits including Here for the Girls, and found her voice as an advocate for women like her with TNBC. “I felt compelled to talk about my experience and about TNBC – what it is, how it affects people of color specifically, and how dangerous it can be. I wanted people to be prepared for the unknowns and how to stay healthy and keep safe.” In 2020, as racial tensions in the country flared, Dionne became involved in diversity and inclusion groups both at her job as a manager (she is the only African American manager in the district) as well as within H4TG.
“I feel like I have the opportunity to use my voice for good and bring people together so we can find our common ground. If I could just touch one person's heart and they are then able to reach another, my perseverance for equality in healthcare and humanity overall is worth continuing the conversation.”
Dionne has this advice for survivors: We all know about breast cancer, but it's overwhelming to a newly diagnosed woman. Listen to others who have breast cancer; learn about other women's experiences. Make friends. Be compassionate to yourself and others.