Greetings from Jackie Wesley On tonight I wish you all greetings from Fighting Together to Save Lives, we thank you for joining us this evening at our 3rd Annual Dancing with Breast Cancer Stars. We are so happy to have you with us tonight. We know that attending these kinds of events can be very emotional and bring back memories of your own lost loved ones or even the journey of those still with us. We do this for several reasons, and our main reason is to honor the brave women who are willing to be revealed to the community as Survivors. The Survivors you will see tonight are women who have made to commitment to join the fight by being revealed and sharing the story. As we have won the battle, the war is not over. We have to continue to bring awareness into the community that this disease does not discriminate against any race. We all are venerable, by family history or even being the first in the family. There is nothing that you have done to get breast cancer it could be genetic. OUR MISSION & VISION STATEMENTS: To support the breast cancer community, by encouraging women and men to get annual mammograms for early detection. To celebrate and acknowledge breast cancer survivors in the community. So, enjoy this evenings event and remember early detection save lives!
Good evening Ladies and Gentleman and welcome to the 3rd Annual “Dancing With The Breast Cancer Stars”. I am your host, Lequita J.Taylor and I am a 14 year survivor of breast cancer. To tell a little about myself, I was diagnosed with breast cancer on April 18, 2003 and I had my surgery on May 9, 2003. I had a lumpectomy and 18 lymph nodes removed from my right arm. I went through 8 treatments of chemotherapy, 34 treatments of radiation. I lost all of my hair, my breast turned black from being burned from the radiation and sometimes being so sick, I could not even raise my head but….Look at God! I am healed, my hair is back, my color is back and I am a breast cancer survivor. I have learned the true meaning of when the bible says “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me”. Only by God’s grace and mercy. I thank God for the Founder of this beautiful event, Mrs. Jackie Wesley who is also a survivor and a powerful woman of God who truly walks by faith and not by sight. Our goal working together with this organization is to stress the seriousness of early detection for women and men of all colors, to survive. We pray this event continues for many more years to come. So, we thank each and every one of you that came out to our 3rd Annual “Dancing with Breast Cancer Stars” and we want you to just sit back, relax and enjoy the ride of the “Survivors”. Many Blessings to You All! Lequita J. Taylor
As we “Celebrate Life� at the 3rd Annual Dancing with Breast Cancer Stars. I am filled with joy and anticipation as we gather to celebrate those who are survivors of Breast Cancer. The women being honored tonight display such beauty and courage. I am truly honored to have had such inspiration cross my path. Not only hearing their stories, but watching them live their stories has been moments that I will cherish and continue to share beyond the nights events. I say to each one tonight; continue to soar and share your stories of solace and survival. Peace & Blessings Caroline D. Price V.P. Fighting Together to Save Lives
RONDA PORTER Rhonda was 30 years old when she was diagnosed on September 20, 2004 with breast. She had a bilateral mastectomy and began more treatments. After completing all the necessary chemo, Rhonda was elated to find out that she was in remission. But in the summer of 2009, she caught a cold that she just couldn’t shake. She went to the doctor to share her concerns and they started tests immediately. The doctor numbed her clavicle area, took a tissue sample, and sent it to the lab. After only a few hours, the doctor returned with the results - the cancer had returned to several places including breasts, clavicle, sternum, back, and bones. The went through several rounds of chemo and had 60 radiation treatments. Rhonda was told her cancer was not curable. Last September, Rhonda drove herself to ER because was she was not feeling well. She was suffering dizzy spells, severe headaches, and feeling as if she was going to pass out. After many tests, the doctors delivered the news that she had tumors on her brain and a significant amount of fluid. Rhonda had procedure called gamma-knife, which is an advanced radiation treatment, and also had emergency surgery to remove the fluid from her brain. She is happy to say that all MRIs to date have shown no regrowth of tumors or lesions. This past June, Rhonda was diagnosed with congestive heart failure caused by chemotherapy. Although Rhonda was living with breast cancer. She knew her fate was just living on borrowed time. Before her passing her freshman, college student died from complications of not using his c-pap machine. She survived by her three children.
ANITA WESLEY There are monumental events which occur in our lives that create a permanent imprint in our memories. The day Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated and when national news reported the deaths of John and Bobby Kennedy these are days I will remember forever. Just as September 20, 2013 is also a day that I will remember forever, it was the day that she received a diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer. One morning I woke up and discovered a lump in my breast. I had severe pain in my breast and in my left arm. Tears flowed down my face because I knew before any medical tests were done that it was cancer. Cancer claimed the life of my grandmother, my mother and aunt. On her birthday October 14, 2013, she had my first chemo therapy treatment. Her journey with breast cancer was a walk of faith. She was surrounded by men and women of faith who believe in healing and trusting in the power of prayer. She placed her life and care in God’s hands. While her life stayed in God’s hands she gallantly lost her battle this year.
TAMMIE DAVIS Hello CANCER my name is Tammie Davis and our journey with breast cancer began on September 13, 2016.
LEONDRIA JOHNSON After having a bariatric surgery, because she was nearly 400lbs, she noticed mosquito like bumps on my stomach, back and neck. Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy 85% of my stomach was removed. The recovery was a long process. But I made it through it I still cannot eat more than 3 tablespoons of food After a two-year period I noticed these bumps on my stomach, back and neck. They almost resembled a mosquito bite they did not go away, my husband told her to contact the doctor. She did and the next step was a biopsy. She was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer! She was in total shock to say the least. She had been having annual mammograms since the age of 50, and the news nearly ruined her Christmas! But thanks be to God, by his grace, I can carry on, by his stripes I am healed even in the reoccurrences! I am still in treatment.
Sounds like an AA meeting right, but on this day the nurse went to go get the doctor and he came into the room and put the chart up and said; do you see these white marks? Its cancer go to the front desk they will schedule you a breast biopsy exam. In the back of my mind I knew I was going to hear the famous word CANCER and the way I was told I really wanted to get up and punch the doctor in his face, however I think I was like wow why me. Needless to say, the following events were my steps through my journey, breast biopsy, breast MRI, and genetic testing. I quit smoking cigars, the passing of my grandmother, and finally surgery to have a bilateral mastectomy. The journey was rough and full of emotions, guilt, hate, and test of faith. I remember being told you are not the first one to get sick. I had to tell my son that I was diagnosed with cancer as he lost his biological mother to this disease, and how was I going to make it losing my grandmother a woman I loved dearly. I didn’t want anyone’s pity, although it showed me who I could count on. One thing that helped was the inspirational gifts, quotes, and cards received. I thank my daughter Dejeunaire for being a trooper and going to every appointment and being the strong one for many times I wanted to give up, and felt I did something wrong in my life to get this disease, but I thank God for pulling me through. I’m a CANCER Survivor.
TRACEY DRAYTON
ALESHIA DAVIS
I am a ten-year Breast Cancer Survivor. I am originally from Carlisle-Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
I am a Colorado native, graduated from East High, I am a licensed cosmetologist of 28 years, I’m a full Hair Stylist and a Part Teacher at Empire Beauty School Married to Otis Davis, we have 6 children and 5 grandchildren
I am married to Christopher H. Drayton, Sr., who is retired from the U.S. Army. We have four grown children (Chris Jr., Walter, Jessica, Albernice), and one grandson (Jewel). I had the opportunity of living in Germany, Florida, Maryland, and England. I am a member of Shorter Community AME Church in Denver, where I lead the Breast Cancer Ministry, volunteer for STOMPING OUT BREAST CANCER, and usher. I am a member and officer of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Aurora Alumnae Chapter, board member of the African American Leadership Institute, member of Susan G. Komen African American Advisory Committee, and volunteer for the American Cancer Society-Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. I am employed with the Cherry Creek School District. My previous employments were in higher education, government, and retail. My business is “True Grace,” Empowering, Motivating, and Transforming women who have/ are affected by Breast Cancer. I have degrees in (A.S.) Fashion Design, (B.S.) Management Studies, and (M.B.A) Business Administration. I am Mrs. Colorado. I am representing the Aurora area as Mrs. Southlands. In addition to pageantry, I also have a background in Fashion/Design, Modeling, and Image Consultant. My Motto Is: Life Isn’t About Waiting for the Storm to Pass.. It’s Learning How to Dance in the Rain!
I am a Mother, Wife, Grandmother, Sister, I am Saved and I am Survivor, I am a cervical and Breast Cancer Survivor, and I am Truly Blessed. I lost my Grandmother due to Breast Cancer. My mother is a Breast Cancer Survivor of 15 years, I had several procedures done due to my cervical cancer before the Dr. said I would have to have a hysterectomy before the cancer spread, 1 year after I had my youngest son, I was 25 years old. Five years later I noticed a lump in my Breast that I ignored for about 5 years, because I was scared and sure it was Cancer, due to the fact that my mother is the only living member out of her sibling, all have passed due to some type of cancer. Once I did finally go get it checked, it was not just one tumor but three, but thank God, they were all benign. Jan 2015 due to my regular mammogram Feb 2nd 2015 was the day my life was turned upside down, when I received that call from my Dr. to tell me I had cancer in one Breast and a suspicious lump in the other Brest, within one month I was having surgery on both Brest, a month later a second surgery due to the fact that they did not get all the cancer the first time, then off to two and a half months of radiation. So one again I say I am truly Blessed because I feel like God chose me for the test like he chose Job, I have 3 older sisters and out of the four of us he considered me, and that has only increased my faith the more, and I know more now, that what I went through was not just for me, it was also for someone else, and I plan.
JEHN-AI JACKSON In 1999, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and I was terrified! In my profession I helped many work through the stages of grief however the news of breast cancer spun me into all of the stages of grief at once. The supporter now needed lifting up. The Lord, wrapped his arms around me and provided extra love and care from family, friends, health care professionals, medical office staff and most of all His grace and mercy, which brought me through the battle and I am thankful. In November 2012, I was once again diagnosed with Breast Cancer. The news this time was a little less frightening and my faith in God outweighed anything I could face in this second battle and I felt in my heart God would give me strength to persevere through this again. God’s Word encourages me because it says, “I can do all things thorough Christ who strengthens me” Philippians 4:13. It was during this period I learned my mother (2x’s), sister, aunts and cousins had all fought and battled cancer. I made it through a second time. The battle with Breast Cancer is so wide spread across the world, many survive and many do not survive. I have joined the fight for a cure and participate in the local Susan Komen Race for the Cure. God has given me the heart to share and support women in and out of my community. I am a mother, grandmother, sister and friend to many who are dear to me. I stay connected to the Lord where all of my help comes from. I stay in fellowship with the Lord as a member of the Ebenezer Baptist Church here in Denver. It is important to keep a positive outlook in all aspects of my life, spending time with my grandson who is the apple of my eye, traveling, visiting and spending time with family and friends, movies and dance lessons with my life partner are just some of the ways I enjoy my personal time and no matter who or where I am, I never pass on opportunity to share my story that it might encourage and help others in their fight to survive Breast Cancer.
PAM DAVIS
BECKY HADDOD
Three times a charm, how cliché it sounds but for me it rang very true in my life.
She was diagnosed three decades ago! Her sister was diagnosed over two decades ago but loss her life to the disease. She thought those two incidence she didn’t know if she could handle any more tragedies.
I, Pam Davis am a three time breast cancer survivor.I was first diagnoised with breast cancer on September 8, 1992, again in 2000 and the third time in 2001. My breast cancer occurred twice on the left breast and once on the right breast. It seemed to be the worst times in my life. Each time I was diagnoised I just wanted to do whatever I needed to so I could be done. Each time all I could think about was how I wanted to be here for my kids. Each time I had to take chemothrapy and radiation, each tiime I lost my hair and with each diagnoises I became sicker and sicker. I fianally said; how much more can I bare. Not only was I a breast cancer survivor I work as a Mammographist. I didn’t want to share my journey I just wanted to move on after each battle. As continued to and still work as a mammographist and see the desparity of other women I had to share with them that I have walked down this same road as you have. Not once, not twice but three times and you will have to fight, but you can survive. With the medical technology we have access to you too can become a survivor! I am so very thankful for my family, without them I could not have made it through this tough battle alone. She was able share her journey in her sickness, and pain. She is now a 25-Year SURVIVOR!!
But another blow came when her daughter was diagnosed five years ago, again, another loss of life, her daughter died at the age of thirtysix in 2014. Spiritually she still recovering, not because she was angry at God, but she is very disappointed in her church for not supporting her when she had gone to them for help. However, in her work and volunteering, she is fulfilled. One of my proudest achievements is the founding and chairing of the Susan G. Komen Colorado Multicultural Conference for Breast Health awareness and education for diverse populations - African American, Native American, Asian, Hispanic and Caucasian. Through the 10 years we were able to educate hundreds of women. I currently chair the African American Advisory Council for Susan G. Komen Colorado. Our goal is to reduce the mortality rate among African Americans. The mortality rate among African Americans is 40% higher than Caucasians. My mantra is a Ralph Waldo Emerson quote: “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us”. None of us knows how strong we are until we are tested. I consider having breast cancer as a gift - The life experiences, opportunities afforded to me, the people I have met, relationships and friends....... PRICELESS.
FIGHTING TOGETHER TO SAVE LIVES DANCING WITH BREAST CANCER STARS Reception 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Ballroom Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
PROGRAM Introduction of Host – Michael Taylor Sr. Host Laquita Taylor Welcome to Fighting Together to Save Lives 3rd Annual; Dancing with Breast Cancer Stars!! INTRODUCTION OF HONOREE’S Tammie Davis escorted by Fred Tuggle Aleshia Davis escorted by Otis Davis Pam Davis escorted by Rudy McClinton Tracey Drayton Escorted by Christopher Drayton Becky Haddad escoted by Tim Haddad Jehn-ai Jackson escorted by Curtis Hannson Jr. Leondra Johnson escorted by Jerome Johnson Linda Johnson escorted Craig Johnson Tiffany Reed escorted Randy Reed Jackie Wesley escorted by Bernard Wesley Video Presentation: Mayor Hanncock Senator Bennett’s Office Chief White House Representative Introduction of Pastor Felix Gilbert RCF Church DINNER SERVED Smooth Jazz Artist: Greg Goodloe & Ron McMillon / Featuring Debbie Giles INTERMISSION Linda Johnson (Survivor) & Tim Merz / Booth Dance Studio Michael J Smith Smooth Urban Ballroom Dance PINK RIBBONS Introduction of Sister’s Dance by Survivors Bernard Wesley INTRODUCTION OF FOUNDER Jackie Wesley /Founder CONCLUSION CBC - Charles Doss CELEBRATION!
TIFFANY REED Tiffany started her career in early childhood education when she opened her own business, Bright beginnings day care and preschool. She taught pre-k for the next six years until her youngest daughter was born and she decided to put her career on hold to be a full time stay at home mom. In 2004 after being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 36 she started volunteering for the American Cancer Society as a Reach to Recovery volunteer. In 2010 she began a new career working for the American Cancer society promoting the Colorado Women’s Wellness Connection promoting free breast and cervical cancer screenings for underserved women in Colorado. In 2013 Tiffany and her statewide team helped to get 19,000 women screened. In 2014 Tiffany was promoted to Senior Screening systems manager and along with a statewide team of six screening systems specialists was able to work with over 160 primary care clinics throughout the state to implement a new program using evidence based interventions, such as updating electronic health records, writing clinic policy and procedure and educating staff and patients on the importance of breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screenings. From 2013 to 2016 Tiffany was the Colorado Breast Cancer Task Force Chair and was a contributing writer for the current Colorado Cancer Coalition, Cancer Plan. In June of 2017 the grant from the State of Colorado that funded Tiffany’s position at the American Cancer Society ended. For now Tiffany is spending some time with family, including her husband Randy of 31 years, her three adult children and her 7year old granddaughter Annika.
JACKIE WESLEY Is a fourteen year breast cancer survivor. During her journey of life, she has experienced an abundance of illnesses. She experienced benign lumps at the age of fifteen, twenty-three and at the age of thirty she was diagnosed with stage IIIB Invasive Carcinoma Breast Cancer. The cancer had spread to the lymph nodes and the chest cavity. Jackie underwent a bi-lateral mastectomy with reconstruction, chemotherapy and radiation. She also had to do a five-year regiment of maintenance. During Jackie’s battle with breast cancer she decided to become an advocate for the cause. She began participating with Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and Making Strides against Brest Cancer and Day of Caring. Jackie felt although volunteering was important, she felt there was more she was being directed by the spirit to do. She went into prayer to ask God; what is it that He wanted her to achieve by being a part of breast cancer awareness and not just fundraiser. Her Spirit instructed Jackie to not only tell her story, but to start her own organization to help people fight for their lives. That’s when her nonprofit organization was birthed and named “Fighting Together to Save Lives” Then Jackie began to write about her story and how she endured the disease and overcame it. She has written and directed a stage play entitled; “Living with Breast Cancer through Christ”. She has also created an annual event called: “Stepping for a Cure” which focuses on breast health care, nutrition and exercise. Along with focusing her attention on educating the African American and faith base community on breast cancer by creating: “Celebrating Pink Sunday”. Out of continued direction of the holy spirit she has now created the first African American celebration, “Dancing with Breast Cancer Stars” As African American women die at a higher rate, she and her board have committed to educating African American women and men to help them to understand the key to a healthy life is knowing your body and what is going on the inside, by preventative maintenance and knowing we can live and not die! Fighting Together to Save Lives / For the Cure
SPONSORS Denver Urban Spectrum – Media Sponsor Pinkberry Lane Boutique
PATRONS Callie Belton Moses Brewer Transcendence Sports Massages & Wellness Denver Wholesale Florist Odessa Franklin – Wisdom Home Care Damoan & Ashley Lott Gilmore Construction Paula Purdue Restoration Christian Fellowship – Media Ministry Selva J’s Salon SpiritLed Creations Taylor Funeral Home TenBack Bowling Outfitters