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Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition kicks off 30th anniversary conference

The Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition is celebrating 30 years.

HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition is celebrating 30 years. An anniversary conference at the Harrisburg Hilton Hotel will feature workshops to cultivate intriguing conversations and presentations on breast cancer research and honor leaders and organizations in the community that have been at the forefront of breast cancer awareness and fundraising. 

The Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition was founded by Pat Halpin-Murphy in 1993. She is currently the president of PBCC and also a stage three breast cancer survivor. Natalie Kopp, communications director with PBCC, says that Halpin-Murphy helped women start the conversation. 

“Many women were not talking about their breast cancer diagnosis,” said Kopp. ”Fast forward 30 years, we’ve had so many advances in research. Treatment, legislative advocacy, which is something we are proud to have worked on over those years.” 

Organizers say the groups and individuals receiving awards are champions who share stories of courage, advocate for women’s health issues, discover research and breakthroughs, and empower communities to make an impact. 

According to PBCC, the awardees and their background are: 

Lori Pierce, MD, FASTRO, FASCO, is a radiation oncologist and Vice Provost for Academic and Faculty Affairs at the University of Michigan, and the 2023 recipient of the Potamkin Prize for Research. Dr. Pierce will present the Conference's Opening Session on radiation treatment options for early-stage breast cancer patients, one of her many areas of expertise.

Pennsylvania Rep. Joanna McClinton, the first female Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, was instrumental in the passage of Act 1 of 2023, a first-in-the-nation comprehensive breast cancer screening law. Act 1, introduced by Pennsylvania Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward, eliminates all costs associated with breast MRI/ultrasounds and genetic testing/counseling for individuals at high risk who are insured under Pennsylvania law.

Cara Sapida, WPXI-TV reporter, faced triple-negative breast cancer at the age of 38, in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, with two young children. She was determined to “fight like a mother,” and now, three years later, is an accomplished author, advocate and survivor. Sapida’s book, “Not the Breast Year of My Life,” focuses on her own experience with breast cancer, sharing the triumphs and challenges she faced along the way. Her story of resilience and hope aims to empower other women facing breast cancer.

Rally Fore the Cure participants who have been hitting the links in support of the PBCC’s programs and services. The annual golf outing has raised over $110,000 for the PBCC's mission.

The Casey Family: The Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition was founded 30 years ago with the support and guidance of former Pennsylvania Governor Robert Casey Sr. and First Lady Ellen Casey. Their belief in the PBCC’s mission gave a voice to thousands of breast cancer survivors and paved the way for the programs and services offered today. The entire Casey family continues to make an impact in the lives of Pennsylvanians touched by breast cancer. The PBCC presents its first-ever Founder’s Award to the Casey family, which will be accepted by U.S. Sen. Bob Casey.

Here is the PBCC 30th Anniversary Conference event outline and planner: 

  • 7:30 a.m. - Registration opens and continental breakfast
  • 8:30 a.m. - Opening session and Potamkin Prize Presentation 
  • 10:30 a.m. - Workshop Session 1 
  • 11:45 a.m. - Pink Ribbon Awards Luncheon 
  • 1:45 p.m. - Workshop Session 2
  • 3:00 p.m. - Celebrating Survivors and Thrivers

Nurses and social workers can receive continuing education credits for free by coming to this event. The event is also free to healthcare heroes. Regular registration is $30. 

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