Season 5, Episode #43 – Pink Legacy 5050
Guest Hosts: Ashley Dedmon, MPH, CHES
Trained Research Advocate | Speaker | Author | Thought Leader
In this conversation, Ashley Dedmon, published author and advocate, shares her personal experience as a caregiver to her parents with cancer and her own high-risk status due to a BRCA2 gene mutation. Through her platform, Pink Legacy 5050, and children’s books series she advocates for familial support resources that are medically relevant, culturally diverse and support of the needs of children. She highlights resources and support systems for families facing a cancer diagnosis and shares her commitment to creating meaningful moments and preserving legacy.
Initiatives Featured in this episode:
Medical Education
Legacy Building
Children’s Literature
Takeaways:
- Representation and diversity in children’s literature are crucial for providing inclusive and culturally relevant resources for families facing cancer.
- Legacy-building activities, such as planning a wedding or creating family traditions, can help families maintain hope and connection during difficult times.
- Support systems and resources for families facing cancer should consider the needs of the entire family unit, including children and caregivers.
- Open and ongoing communication about cancer diagnosis and treatment is essential for children’s understanding and emotional well-being.
- Advocacy work in the cancer community should focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion to ensure that all families have access to resources and support.
Key Websites:
Wonders & Worries: www.wondersandworries.org
The Big Discovery by Ashley Dedmon: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Discovery-Assisting-Families-Diagnosis/dp/B0CN18399L/ref=sr_1_1?crid=ATVE4WUMZ9OS&keywords=The+big+discovery&qid=1706715118&sprefix=the+big+discovery%2Caps%2C154&sr=8-1
Ashley’s TedTalk: https://www.ted.com/talks/ashley_dedmon_the_generational_impact_of_cancer_brca2_positive/details