Welcome to Season 4, Episode 407! This is the second feature in our Breast Cancer Awareness Month series on The Lotus Flower Podcast. In this moving episode titled Healing in Real Time, I am joined by my cousin, apparel creator and entrepreneur Sheryl Lynn Haymon.

Recently diagnosed with breast cancer, Sheryl is navigating her healing journey with incredible strength, resilience, and a heart ready to share her story. Born in Long Beach and raised in Fresno, California, with deep roots in Little Rock and Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Sheryl operates her home and business studio out of Inglewood, Southern California.

During our conversation, Sheryl shares her powerful journey to early detection, her creative legacy honoring our ancestors through Sheryl Lynn Apparel, and her vital community initiatives, including the Sheryl Lynn Apparel Mentor Program, the "Shadow Me Then Shine, Haymon Scholarship Fund," and the "Black Design Collective."

All month long on The Lotus Flower Podcast, we are BREAKING THE SILENCE. We are talking about the real numbers, confronting health disparities, emphasizing the power of early detection, and creating space for honest conversations about breast cancer, healing, resilience, and hope.

📊 THE NUMBERS MATTER

The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 321,910 women in the US will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2026, alongside 60,730 cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

While incidence rates are similar between Black and White women, Black women experience a mortality rate approximately 40% higher and are more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive triple-negative breast cancer.

Access to timely screening, follow-up care, and research remains critical, especially for Black and Brown communities.

💕 AWARENESS MUST LEAD TO ACTION

Don't just wear pink. Take action:

Get screened and know your personal and family health history.

Talk with your healthcare provider about the right screening schedule for you.

Support one another, share reliable information, and contribute to reputable cancer organizations if you are able.

🌸 WHERE CAN YOU GET SCREENED?

Nationwide Resources: Check the FDA-certified mammography directory, the National Cancer Institute, or the CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program for uninsured and low-income individuals.

North Carolina & Triangle Area: Eligible women ages 40–64 can explore the NC Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (NC BCCCP). Local imaging services are also available through Wake Radiology UNC Health Rex, Duke Health, and WakeMed. Always ask about financial assistance if cost is a concern!

📺 CONNECT & LISTEN

Watch: YouTube (The Lotus Flower) | Facebook (The Dr. Pamela Robinson)

Listen: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music

Website: DrPamelaRobinsonSpeaks.com

💕 Your voice matters. Your story matters. Your health matters. Don't just wear pink—TAKE ACTION.

The Lotus Flower Podcast

🌸 Where Healing Begins & Purpose Blooms.

Disclaimer: The content shared on The Lotus Flower Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

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