Written by Mackenzie Blithe and Katelyn Bender | March 2025
Wilmington, Delaware – The Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition (DBCC) hosts its 27th Annual Breast Cancer Update, “Breast Cancer: The State We’re In”, held virtually via Zoom, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to noon.
Interested individuals must register in advance for the free educational conference offered as a public service at no-cost.
Keynote speaker Dr. Scott Siegel will address Delaware’s status as the highest-ranking state in the nation for cases of Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) among Black women.
Recognizing the magnitude of this appalling statistic, DBCC is committed to raising awareness and continues to do so with an eye-opening campaign titled “1st is the worst.” While it is common to think of being first as an accomplishment, being 1st in the nation for TNBC cases among Black women is unacceptable and change requires inquisitive, solution-oriented minds like Dr. Siegel. His presentation will cover “Triple Negative Breast Cancer Population Health Research” and will provide insight into why TNBC is so prevalent among Black women in Delaware.
Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is different because it is often more aggressive and can be harder to treat than other types of invasive breast cancer. While TNBC does impact Black women more frequently, triple-negative breast cancers affect people of all races. One step that everyone can take to improve outcomes for those diagnosed with TNBC is to spread the word about early detection.
In addition to TNBC, the no-cost half-day program will feature sessions on Genetic Testing, Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations, followed by Nutrition and Survivorship with a DEMO to end the program with health inspiration at lunchtime!
This year’s topics are incredibly relevant to DBCC’s community members, as is echoed by DBCC’s Survivorship Specialist, Connie Holdridge. “With the large number of Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) cases in Delaware, I think the sessions on TNBC and genetics are very relevant to us all currently. As a moderator of the nutrition segment, I’m excited to share how we can protect ourselves by practicing healthy eating. Chef Dee is an exciting and thoughtful chef, dietitian, and breast cancer survivor.”
DBCC knows when communities are empowered with breast health education, they are more likely to get screened regularly. Early detection saves lives and helps keep families whole. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the more treatment options are available, providing better outcomes for patients.
“Having offered this crucial educational event free for over 26 years through community support, we at DBCC anticipate welcoming hundreds of participants, including survivors, caregivers, medical providers, students, and the public,” explained Development Manager Lauren Balcerak. “To ensure DBCC continues to serve the breast cancer community, your ongoing support is essential.”
Showcase your dedication to breast cancer education and knowledge sharing by committing as an event sponsor. Enhance your brand visibility among a unique audience of breast cancer survivors, caregivers, medical professionals, and community leaders.
For more information about sponsorship packages, please contact Lauren Balcerak at (302) 778-1102 x 1013 or via email at Lbalcerak@debreastcancer.org.
To register for this free event or to view sponsorship packages online, visit: https://give.debreastcancer.org/ge/bcu2025.