On May 29, over 200 breast cancer survivors, researchers and advocates gathered at The Westin in Uptown Charlotte for the 3rd annual Speak PINK luncheon. The luncheon, dubbed the “newest forum for breast cancer philanthropy” in Charlotte, featured ABC’s renowned “20/20” co-anchor and breast cancer survivor Amy Robach as the honored guest speaker. Robach spoke about her journey battling the disease and why she chose to publicize her fight, declaring, “I knew in my heart, immediately, that by being public it would save lives.” Speak PINK is unique in the way it brings together survivors with those who treat and support breast cancer patients in an intimate setting to gain a deeper understanding of the realities of breast cancer. Amy also shared with attendees the most poignant lesson she learned that allowed her to find joy on her cancer journey: “Live now. Appreciate now. Have gratitude for all that’s around you… that is the gift of cancer.”
In attendance was the all-star team of oncologists from Atrium Health’s Levine Cancer Institute, as well as breast cancer survivors Cathy Bessant – former Speak PINK honored guest and Chief Technology Officer at Bank of America – and Susan Olsen, mother of Carolina Panthers Tight End Greg Olsen and honored speaker of the inaugural Speak PINK luncheon in 2017.
Speak PINK, presented for the third year by Charlotte Radiology, raised vital funds for breast cancer research and patient screening programs at Levine Cancer Institute. These programs include LCI Project PINK and Project PINK Plus which provide free mammograms and follow-up breast care to uninsured and underinsured women in Mecklenburg County, as well as the Carolinas Breast Cancer Program. These initiatives provide valuable, life-saving care to women across the Carolinas and, thanks to support from generous donors, are the reason that incredible stories of hope like Amy’s can continue to inspire others who are facing their own battles.
Above, Left: Levine Cancer Institute oncologists with Amy Robach. (L-R: Dr. Edward Kim, Dr. Stuart Burri, Amy Robach, Dr. Richard White, Dr. Antoinette Tan, Dr. Julie Fisher, and Dr. Lejla Hadzikadic-Gusic.)
Above, Right: Members of the Charlotte Radiology team with Amy Robach. Charlotte Radiology was the presenting sponsor for Speak Pink for the third year.