With a mission to elevate the diverse voices and perspectives of the metastatic breast cancer (MBC) community, Susan G. Komen® launched the MBC Steering Committee. The committee is comprised solely of people living with MBC and seeks to ensure the unique needs of the MBC community are integrated across Komen’s programs and initiatives.
“Komen has a sense of urgency to address MBC, and while we’ve come a long way, we have so much more to do to ensure that no one dies from this disease. MBC is responsible for most of the nearly 44,000 deaths expected from breast cancer in the U.S. this year alone. We are committed to changing this unacceptable reality,” Natasha Mmeje, Komen’s Director of Community Education and Outreach, said.
“We want to continue to invest in more research to conquer metastatic and aggressive breast cancer and eliminate breast cancer disparities, support those living with MBC, educate and increase awareness about MBC and advocate for patient protections and access to care for everyone.”
The committee now has 11 people living with MBC currently serving. The committee aims to:
- Represent the broad community of those impacted by MBC, keeping Komen updated on the issues and needs most important to the MBC community.
- Provide input to help guide Komen’s MBC-focused program strategy related to research, patient care services and public policy advocacy.
- Serve as spokespersons and advocates for Komen by participating in media events, fundraising and educational programs.
- Serve as ambassadors to the MBC community by leveraging personal networks and local communities to share information about Komen programs, services and campaigns.
- Help Komen build relationships and engage with other MBC advocates, thought leaders and organizations representing the diversity of the MBC community.
Meet the Committee Members
Carlee Dixon
Carlee, a Texas native, is a mother of an amazing 22-year-old son and two great rescue dogs. Carlee grew up in a Texas cattle ranching family and went on to Texas Tech University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism. Carlee now lives in the Dallas Forth Worth area. Carlee enjoys traveling, golfing, taking long walks with the dogs, gardening, volunteering in her community, and spending time with family and friends.
Carlee received a de novo metastatic diagnosis in January 2021. Since being diagnosed, Carlee elected to retire early from her 30-year technology sales career in order to slow life down and to focus on family and friends and thriving with MBC. Carlee’s surprise diagnosed inspired her to learn as much as possible about breast cancer and take every opportunity to educate friends and acquaintances about breast cancer prevention.
Julia Hughes
For over nine years, Julia Hughes has bravely faced the challenges of living with Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC), starting from her diagnosis in 2015. With a deep personal commitment to breast cancer advocacy, she possesses exceptional skills in communication, organization, and fostering community support. At Komen, she plays a pivotal role in addressing the needs of the MBC community, ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives are heard.
Despite the unexpected Stage 2 diagnosis in February 2015 and the grim prognosis later that June, with doctors foreseeing only six months to live, Julia’s unwavering faith has propelled her through the tumultuous journey of treatments and surgeries. Enduring over 55 IV chemotherapies, brain surgery, double hip surgery, and ongoing oral medications, her resilience stands as a testament to the strength she derives from her faith.
Her dedication extends beyond personal battles; Julia actively fundraises for Komen Hawai’i, leading top-ranking teams in generating vital funds since 2015. As a sought-after speaker, she has graced the stages of the Susan G. Komen Pink Tie Ball in 2019, 2023, and 2024, inspiring audiences with her story of resilience. Recognized for her remarkable advocacy, she received the “More Than Pink” Inspirational Award in Hawaii and was featured prominently in Generations Magazine (including the cover), raising awareness of breast cancer across all age groups.
In 2023, Julia’s passion for advocacy reached new heights as she successfully campaigned for Honolulu’s mayor to proclaim October 13 as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. Her influence continues to grow as she serves on the inaugural Metastatic Breast Cancer Committee since 2022, eagerly anticipating further opportunities for impactful service.
In tandem with her official advocacy responsibilities, Julia aims to bolster her presence on social media, delve into book writing, and forge partnerships with local charitable organizations.
Outside her advocacy work, Julia finds immense joy in her roles as a wife of over 14 years, a mother to two young men in their early twenties, and a devoted pet parent. She cherishes precious moments with her loved ones, indulges in creative crafts, travels to visit family, finds fulfillment in exercise classes and outdoor adventures, enjoys mini-vacays, delights in culinary experiences, finds solace in church and bible time, immerses herself in reading, and embraces every aspect of life with gratitude and enthusiasm. Guided by her faith, her mission is to live each day according to God’s plan, thriving in every moment.
Pam Kohl
Pam Kohl was diagnosed with stage 1 ER+ breast cancer in 2009. In October 2016, she was diagnosed with breast cancer again and on Jan. 31, 2017, she was diagnosed with MBC. A North Carolina native, Pam has more than 40 years of experience working in government and non-profit management. She served as Executive Director of Komen North Carolina Triangle to the Coast for eight years. In that role, Pam was a passionate spokesperson and advocate for equitable breast cancer support services in eastern N.C. and the vital need for breast cancer research. She helped raise millions of dollars in support of those efforts. Pam recently retired from her role with Komen as Development Director of the newly created Metastatic Breast Cancer Collaborative Research Initiative.
Mayra Rivera
Mayra diagnosed with early stage triple positive breast cancer in 2015. Despite receiving aggressive treatment, double mastectomy and a hysterectomy, she experienced a recurrence the following year. In 2021, her cancer progressed to MBC. Before her diagnosis, she was an active participant in community fundraising events for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and Susan G. Komen’s Race for the Cure. She worked with her employer to actively engage in these events, and she dedication to the cause was evident in my enthusiasm and commitment. Little did she know, years later she would be facing breast cancer.
Since her diagnosis with MBC, she has felt a deep need to do more. In 2022, she became a Living Beyond Breast Cancer Hear My Voice Advocate. During this experience, she connected with health care providers, breast cancer patients and other advocates. She believes that by connecting with others and educating people about the disease, she can help make a positive impact in the lives of those affected by breast cancer. Although at times she struggles, she remains determined to stay productive and active. Working a full-time job while raising her 10-year-old boy is important to her and keeps her going. Her experiences have taught her that with the right mindset, support and community, one can still lead a fulfilling and purposeful life while battling breast cancer. She is grateful for the opportunity to share her story and inspire others to stay strong and positive on their own journeys.
Michelle Anderson Benjamin
Michelle Anderson-Benjamin is a wife and mother of two from NYC. At the age 36 during the pandemic, Michelle was diagnosed with Stage-1 Triple Negative Breast Cancer and unfortunately at the age of 38 in 2022 her cancer returned and is now Stage IV. She was inspired to turn her pain into her purpose and started The Fearless Warrior Project/Organization in 2021. As a Certified Mental Health Coach and Death Doula her mission is to help individuals address and overcome their emotional, mental traumas and embrace their fears. She is empowering others to advocate for themselves and educates other cancer warriors their rights, clinical trials options and resources.
She is a voice for the voiceless and creating a legacy for her children is her biggest motivation.
Michelle is Superwoman with a Pink Cape!
Cyndi Johnson
Cyndi grew up in northern Iowa with an amazing family. After college and teaching in Texas then central Minnesota, she and her husband made their home in rural, southern Minnesota where she was a high school English teacher for 26 years. Cyndi and Brad have four boys and a beautiful Great Pyrenees dog. Each of the boys are adulting and living successful, happy lives and fill her mom’s heart with pride. Her husband continues to teach and coach at the same high school where she was employed. They enjoy being a part of a close community with caring people. Cyndi enjoys boating, walks with her dog, biking, reading and book clubs, vacations, and time with friends and family.
Cyndi received a de novo metastatic diagnosis in March 2018. A year later, she made the difficult decision to retire early and concentrate on her health and treatments plus enjoy more time with her family. Cyndi is driven by a passion and a sense of urgency to address MBC and the side effects of long-term treatments. She has been active with Tackle Cancer fundraising, Relay for Life, metastatic cancer support groups, and mentoring. She is hoping to make a positive impact and inspire others while serving on the Susan G. Komen MBC Steering Committee.
Phyllis Esposito
Dr. Phyllis Esposito was first diagnosed with Stage IIA bilateral breast cancer in June 2020. After intensive treatment, including chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy, she showed no signs of cancer. As a Black woman, Phyllis chose to participate in a clinical study during her breast cancer treatment to highlight the importance of such studies and advocate for her community. In November 2023, she was diagnosed with MSBC.
Dr. Esposito’s experience demonstrates the challenges of cancer treatment while showcasing her commitment to advocacy. Even during her own health battles, she champions representation and equity in healthcare. This aligns with her professional life as a diversity leader, where she creates and facilitates diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives for students, leadership, staff, and faculty.
Dr. Esposito holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master of Integrated Humanities and Education from Rockhurst University, as well as a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Kansas. Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, she is a mother of three, a grandmother, and currently resides in Oregon with her husband and dog, Gromit.
Jennifer Williams
Jennifer Lane-Williams had early-stage breast cancer twice before it recurred later as MBC in 2022. Since her original diagnosis she has participated in numerous fundraising and breast cancer advocacy events, including Komen Public Policy Initiatives both on the State and National Level. In 2023 she coordinated an informal educational workshop with University of Maryland Comprehensive Cancer Center and her church parish, St. Bernadine Catholic Church in Baltimore.
She is originally from Opelousas, Louisiana but has lived in Baltimore County Maryland for over 25 years. She has a 25-year-old Son, who she is extremely proud of. In her spare time she enjoys hiking, water fitness and reading.
Lexy Vudrag
Lexy Vudrag lives in the suburbs of Phoenix Arizona with her husband Nick and together they have two grown daughters, Kristi and Karla. Lexy has 40 years of experience as a paralegal and director in real estate management and development. She and her husband are 20-year franchisees of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory; they own and operate the store located in Uptown Sedona, Arizona. Lexy is also a member of the Franchise Advisory Council for Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc.
Lexy was diagnosed with de novo metastatic breast cancer in 2022. Shortly after finishing chemotherapy she experienced pathological fractures in her pelvis due to the cancer treatments weakening bones. These fractures made it nearly impossible to walk without the use of walking aids. At the direction of her incredible medical team she began a fitness regiment, incorporated changes to lifestyle and worked hard on becoming physically fit. She managed to recover from the fractures and is now active and thriving.
Lexy is passionate about helping the MBC patient community sort through the emotions, fear and chaos that ensues when diagnosed with metastatic disease. She aims to inspire hope and help others find the key to unlocking their own best quality of life. In conjunction with the treatments and therapies available today and those on the horizon, Lexy believes that with great determination it is possible to thrive with MBC.
Linda Lydia
A native of Tennessee, Mrs. Lydia is a graduate of Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN, where she majored in Sociology. She worked for twelve years as a probation officer supervisor in Dallas County before joining the U.S. Peace Corp in Sierra Leone, West Africa. In Africa she taught swamp rice production and English.
Linda Lydia has a long and involved history with the NAACP dating back to the turbulent sixties as an active member of the TN State University College Chapter. Since these days she has served as the chartering advisor for the Grand Prairie NAACP, Los Angeles CA. NAACP ACT-SO chair and youth advisor, Dallas NAACP ACT-SO and Youth advisor, TX State NAACP Youth Advisor, State ACT-SO, and Secretary of the TX State NAACP and on the national level, as the Region VI Representative to the National Youth Work Committee.
Mrs. Lydia volunteers with numerous community organizations including coordinating volunteers for breast cancer build (a yearly habitat home built by breast cancer survivors), Komen Race for the Cure Advocacy Chair, Komen AA HEI Cancer Coalition, Southwest Transplant Alliance, League of Women Voters, American Red Cross, Methodist Breadbasket, and others. Linda is proud of her mission work with Feed My Starving Children, having done missionary trips to South Africa, Haiti, and Cuba. She serves on the speaker bureau of FMSC.
In 2020, Linda founded the Pink Diamonds Survivors of Cancer, Inc. to raise funds and awareness of people experiencing cancer who are uninsured and underinsured. This group has been major fundraiser for Komen, Sisters Network and Celebrating Life. Mrs. Lydia is a 28 year metastatic breast cancer survivor.
Mrs. Lydia serves on numerous boards and commissions and is an active member of Concord Church Dallas.
Charmaine Tyson
Charmaine Tyson is a two-time breast cancer survivor and a dedicated advocate for breast cancer awareness and support. With resilience and passion, she has turned her personal journey into a source of inspiration for others facing similar challenges. Charmaine currently serves as the Operations Manager at Carolina Breast Friends, where she plays a vital role in providing resources, support, and community for those affected by breast cancer. Her leadership and commitment continue to make a significant impact in the lives of many.
