As I look ahead to this September, which commemorates Hispanic Heritage Month, I’m filled with a mix of excitement and determination. This month also marks a significant moment in our ongoing fight against cancer in the Latino community, and I’m honored to be part of two crucial initiatives that have the potential to create lasting change.

But before I dive into the details, I need to share some sobering facts with you:

One in three Latinos will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes. And cancer is the number one cause of death among Latinos.

Let that sink in for a moment. These aren’t just statistics – they represent our families, our friends, our communities. They represent us. And they’re the reason why the work we’re doing is so vital.

Joining Forces with the FDA

On September 20th, I’ll be participating in the FDA’s “Conversations on Cancer” panel as part of their inaugural National Hispanic Family Cancer Awareness Week. This event is more than just a discussion – it’s a call to action.

For years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the disparities our community faces in cancer care. From higher rates of certain cancers to lower participation in clinical trials, the challenges are real and pressing. This FDA initiative is a step towards addressing these issues head-on, with a panel of Latino experts, and I’m eager to bring our community’s voice to the table.

Launching TLCI’s Friday Forum Series

But our work doesn’t stop there. Immediately following the FDA panel, I’ll be kicking off The Latino Cancer Institute’s new Friday Forum Series. This series, titled “Talking about Cancer Won’t Kill Us, the Silence Will,” is incredibly close to my heart.

As a cancer survivor myself, I know the power of open, honest conversations about this disease. Our six-part series will tackle critical issues ranging from genetic factors in blood cancers to the role of AI in healthcare. We’re bringing together experts, advocates, and community leaders to spark dialogues that can lead to real change.

Why This Matters

You might wonder why we’re putting so much emphasis on these events. The answer is in those statistics I shared earlier. One in three of us will be diagnosed with cancer in our lifetime. And with Latino cancer cases projected to increase by 142%, according to the American Cancer Society, we need to step up. By increasing awareness, promoting early detection, and encouraging participation in research, we can change these numbers. We can change our future.

Your Role

As we embark on this journey, I invite you – yes, you – to be part of this change. Attend the FDA’s virtual events. Join our Friday Forums. Share what you learn with your family and friends. Ask questions. Demand better care. Your voice matters in this fight.

Remember, #LatinePuede! We can do this, but only if we do it together.

Will you join me this September in breaking the silence and taking charge of our health? Let’s make this a September to remember – for all the right reasons.

Click Here to Register for the FDA events

Click Here to Register for TLCI’s Friday Forum Series