In this honest and funny chat, Sofiya Alexandra (@TheSofiya), a comedian, writer, and breast cancer survivor, teams up with board-certified genetic counselor Dena Goldberg (aka Dena DNA) to discuss the real side of breast cancer awareness. They go beyond the pink ribbons to share personal stories, patient advocacy tips, and what it’s really like to go through breast cancer in your early 30s.
00:00 Introduction to Hosts
00:29 Pinkwashing & how breast cancer is portrayed in the media
01:57 Understanding Personal Risk
02:23 Chemo ports and how Hollywood influenced their placement
03:54 Advocating for Yourself in Radiation & Tattooing
05:37 “You’re Too Young” Challenges of Diagnosis at a Young Age
07:15 Understanding Cancer Syndromes and Early Screening
07:39 Sofiya's Journey: A Negative BRCA result
08:19 The Evolution of Genetic Testing for Cancer
08:55 Supporting Someone Through Their Cancer Journey
10:38 Sharing Your Diagnosis: A Practical Approach
12:41 Advocating for Yourself During Travel
From advocating for yourself in healthcare to learning how to handle chemo ports and flight accommodations, Sofiya’s insights will empower anyone facing cancer or chronic illness. Dena shares valuable information on genetic testing, risk assessments, and the importance of knowing your family history.
Topics Covered: 💡 The problem with “pinkwashing” and how breast cancer is portrayed in the media. 💡 Self-advocacy moments: how Sofiya avoided a tattoo during radiation and the power of asking questions. 💡 What you didn’t know about chemo ports and how Hollywood influenced their placement. 💡 The truth about BRCA testing and why you should consider more comprehensive genetic testing. 💡 How to support a friend going through cancer (Hint: It’s more than just offering help). 💡 Travel hacks for cancer patients and those with disabilities-ask for what you need!
Whether you’re a patient, a supporter, or someone curious about cancer genetics, this video offers a fresh perspective on breast cancer awareness. Watch, learn, and get empowered to take control of your health! 💖
#BreastCancerAwareness #CancerSurvivor #Pinkwashing #GeneticTesting #PatientAdvocacy #DenaDNA #BRCA #CancerJourney #BreastCancer #selfadvocacy
Follow Dena DNA on Instagram: dena.dna
Follow Dena DNA on TikTok: tiktok.com/@denadna
Follow Sofiya on Instagram: thesofiya
Learn more about Sofiya sofiyaalexandra.com/