dedicated to uplifting, empowering, and providing emotional support to those affected by breast cancer. NO LONGER LIVE IN FEAR, ANXIETY, AND MENTAL ISOLATION. YOUR COMMUNITY OF SISTERS IS HERE!

Who Are The Virtuous Breasties?!

Yasheca Smith is the founder and Executive Director of Virtuous Breasties, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting, empowering, and providing emotional support to those affected by breast cancer.

Our Mission: To inspire individuals to live boldly and freely, staying true to themselves after a diagnosis, while also raising awareness about breast cancer.

"My journey began when I was diagnosed with Stage 1, leading me to undergo a double mastectomy and the removal of 17 lymph nodes. Despite facing addiction, depression, low self-esteem, and body image issues, throughout my journey, I persevered. Embracing my new normal, I empowered myself with daily affirmations of beauty, fierceness, power, strength, and faith in God. Driven by my experiences, I founded Virtuous Breasties to make an impact in the lives of women in my community. As the driving force behind this organization, I’m committed to advocating, raising awareness, providing education, celebrating and supporting breast and all cancer thrivers, warriors, and co-survivors." ~ Yasheca Smith

Self-advocacy during breast cancer treatment is crucial. Here are some steps to help you effectively advocate for yourself:
1. EDUCATE YOURSELF
Learn about your type of breast cancer, treatment options, and potential side effects. Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and ask relevant questions.
2. BUILD A SUPPORT NETWORK
Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and healthcare professionals. Consider joining support groups for additional emotional and practical support.
3. ASK QUESTIONS
Don’t hesitate to ask your medical team for clarification on anything you don’t understand. Questions could include details about treatment plans, potential side effects, and the rationale behind recommendations.
4. SEEK A SECOND OPINION
If you’re unsure about a diagnosis or treatment plan, seeking a second opinion can provide additional perspectives and options.
5. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING
Keep detailed records of your medical treatments, test results, and communications with healthcare providers. This can help you stay organized and ensure consistency in your care.
6. COMMUNICATE CLEARLY
Be open and honest about your symptoms, concerns, and preferences. Effective communication with your healthcare team is vital for tailoring your treatment plan to your needs.
7. UNDERSTAND YOUR RIGHTS
Familiarize yourself with patient rights and protections under health care laws to ensure you receive appropriate and respectful care.
8. CONSIDER A PATIENT ADVOCATE
If navigating the healthcare system feels overwhelming, a patient advocate or care manager can help you understand your options and ensure your voice is heard.


By actively engaging in your care and staying informed, you can better manage your treatment and overall well-being.

Become A Virtuous Breastie!

What does it mean to be a Virtuous Breastie? The Virtuous Breastie is a community of those who have been diagnosed with cancer. We empower each other through conversations, meet-ups, support, and more. You and your family are not alone in this fight!

COMING SOON!

A podcast to enrich, enlighten, empower, and educate about cancer.

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Statistic 1


1 in 8 women
in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

Statistic 2


Chances are, you know at least one person who has been personally affected by breast cancer.

Statistic 3


In 2024, an estimated 310,720 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.

Statistic 4


When caught in its earliest, localized stages, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.

Statistic 5


There are currently over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.

Statistic 6

About 9% of all new breast cancer cases in the U.S. are diagnosed in women younger than 45 years old. Younger people, particularly those under age 35 at the time of their original breast cancer diagnosis, face a higher risk of breast cancer recurrence.