Posted November 22, 2023 in Dr. Aldona Spiegel, Events
.
BRA Day: Igniting Hope and Empowerment through Breast Reconstruction Awareness
I can’t believe BRA (Breast Reconstruction Awareness) Day has come and gone in the blink of an eye. As many of you already know, we celebrated BRA Day on October 18th. It was a special occasion dedicated to raising awareness about breast reconstruction options and offering unwavering support to the brave women who have faced breast cancer. This year marked the first annual BRA Day event organized as a collaborative effort with our Pink Sisters volunteer group. This event allowed everyone to create a milestone that united survivors, advocates, and medical professionals in a celebration of strength, resilience, and hope for those who have gone through or will be going through breast cancer reconstruction.
Our inaugural BRA Day event was thoughtfully curated to educate, empower, and uplift attendees. As the clock struck 6:00 PM, the venue came alive with anticipation. Attendees began to arrive, and the atmosphere was electric. It was the perfect time for guests to connect, network, and seize the opportunity for some memorable snapshots at our special backdrop area. You can imagine there were a lot of tears combined with laughter and joy. But overall, it was an event of sisterhood bonding and a reminder to all of us as to why this mission of breast cancer reconstruction is so important.
This evening allowed me to remove my white coat and put on my pink dress in support of my patients. It allowed me to reconnect with all my patients – it did not matter what stage my patient was in; we all knew we were there with one purpose: to support each other.
Our vivacious host and master of ceremony, Dominique Sachse, took the stage and welcomed our wonderful guests. With the crowd settled, we opened the event with the empowering anthem “Roar” by Katy Perry, setting the tone for the evening. I was mindful in choosing that song because every single lady who has gone through breast reconstruction has the spirit of a lioness in their soul. They are fighters who went from at times having no hope of being their own heroes.
The moment I reached the podium and shared my personal connection to BRA Day, I was overwhelmingly humbled by every person in attendance. We have all come a long way, and we all have had our journey of setbacks, struggles, and victories. The fact that every woman in that room chose my team and me to be part of their journey was just overwhelming, and I felt very blessed to share this event with my family.
The Testimonials
Let me start by thanking those who gave their testimonial at that event. Holley Dean was a beacon of inspiration. Her powerful narrative ignited the hearts of attendees and laid the foundation for an unforgettable evening.
Mindy Dollinger and her husband, Steve, took center stage. Their touching dialogue left a profound mark on the audience, reminding us of all the power of love and unity.
Debbie Rutledge and her sister, Liz Leuth shared their stories which resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the strength found in familial bonds.
Finally, the mother-daughter duo of Dawnyell Bell and Crystalyn Bell shared their compelling journey through their breast reconstruction journey. Their story showcased the indomitable spirit that lives within us all and the importance of family bonds.
Our first-ever BRA Day event was an unparalleled success, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended. It underscored the importance of breast reconstruction awareness and provided a nurturing space for survivors, medical professionals, and advocates to unite in support of breast cancer survivors. As we look ahead, we anticipate even greater strides for BRA Day, making an even more profound impact in raising awareness and offering hope to women on their journey to recovery.
Before I end my blog, I want to say a special “Thank you” to the following companies and individuals that without them this event would not have happened.
Company Sponsors
Mentor
MTF Biologics
AxoGen
SIA/Integra Lifesciences
Galderma
Zo Skin Health
Synovis
GEM
BRA Day Art Creators
Linda King
Julia Abbott
Ronica Pierre
Amy Umnus
Holley Dean
Barbara Govan
Lauri Hardeman
Pam McGee
Christina Mitchell
Courtney Molnar
Angelica Sullivan
Sonia Dixson
Mary Lou Dale
Jackie Beck
Karen Armstrong
Artistic Directors
Video Creator: Julia Abbott
Bust Project Champion: Ronica Pierre
Testimony Stars
Barbara Govan
Cenaida Gasanova
Julia Abbott
Ronica Pierre
Tracy Harrell
Event Speakers
Holley Dean
Mindy and Steve Dollinger
Debbie Rutledge and Liz Leuth (Sisters)
Dawnyell and Crystalyn Bell (Mother and Daughter)
Event Support Heroes
Pink Hardy
Amy Umnus
Eileen Graves
Linda King
BRA Day Committee
Holley Dean (Chair)
Audrey Jones
Sonia Fuentes
Julia Abbott
Ronica Pierre
