As Breast Cancer Awareness Month highlights the importance of early detection, Sisters Network Inc. is working to help Black women overcome financial barriers to breast cancer screenings and treatment.
Caleen Allen, executive vice president of Sisters Network Inc., and Dee Manuel Cloud, a two-time breast cancer survivor and breast cancer recovery strategist, joined KPRC 2 to raise awareness about breast cancer disparities and highlight resources available to help women access screenings, treatment and financial assistance.
The Houston-based national organization provides emotional support, education and financial assistance through its network of more than 30 affiliate chapters across the country.
UNDERSTANDING THE ISSUE:
Caleen Allen points to medical research showing that Black women face higher breast cancer death rates and are more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive forms of the disease, including triple-negative breast cancer.
They also are more likely to be diagnosed at younger ages, highlighting the need for increased awareness and access to care.
Dee Manuel Cloud, president of the Sisters Network Greater Houston chapter, knows that reality firsthand. She was diagnosed with breast cancer at 35 and experienced a recurrence at 38.
“I am very passionate about making sure that women know the signs, what to look for during their monthly breast exams,” Cloud said.
Cloud said she discovered her own lump and encouraged women to pay attention to changes in their bodies and seek medical advice when something feels abnormal.
Symptoms can include a new lump, breast dimpling or abnormal nipple discharge. Persistent or unexplained changes also warrant medical attention, although they can have causes unrelated to cancer.
“I was fatigued all of a sudden. I was so tired all the time. I was nauseous all the time. But you know, we self-diagnose. Oh, that’s probably something I ate. Oh, I’m tired because I’ve been going nonstop. But it’s a different type of fatigue and is a different type of nausea. Like, don’t ignore those things,” she said.”
STANDING IN THE GAP FINANCIALLY:
Sisters Network also addresses the financial challenges that can accompany a diagnosis through its Karen E. Jackson Breast Cancer Assistance Program, established in 2006.
The program helps eligible survivors undergoing active treatment with expenses such as rent, mortgage payments and utilities. It also provides financial assistance for 3D mammograms to help women access screenings.
“Financial toxicity is real. Ladies need assistance, and not only just the financial side. You need help sometimes navigating with your insurance providers because sometimes that can be overwhelming for you. Your job. People lose their jobs because of going through treatment, and you need to know your rights,” said Allen.
The organization has distributed more than $2 million in financial assistance and mammogram resources through the program, according to Calleen Allen, executive vice president of Sisters Network Inc.
“When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, it is in no one’s budget,” Allen said, noting that treatment can bring additional expenses for medication, transportation and child care.
Cloud said she was fortunate to have two health insurance policies when she was diagnosed, but she has spoken with women who faced significant financial hardship.
“A breast cancer diagnosis can bankrupt you, and that’s just the reality of the situation,” she said.
Women seeking assistance can visit SistersNetworkInc.org and explore the resources available on the organization’s website. The American Cancer Society can also help patients identify financial assistance and other support services. Uninsured Harris County residents can explore care options through Harris Health.
Sisters Network is also hosts its annual National Black Breast Cancer Summit in Houston, bringing together survivors, medical experts and advocates to address disparities in breast cancer outcomes.
Allen said the organization wants women to know they do not have to navigate the experience alone.
“Sisters Network is there to walk hand in hand with any woman who needs assistance,” Allen said.
Both women emphasized the importance of making breast health a priority. Routine mammogram recommendations generally begin at age 40 for women at average risk, but those with a family history or other risk factors may need earlier screening based on guidance from their health care providers.
“Early detection is not a slogan,” Allen said. “It truly can save a woman’s life.”
