The Empowerment Exchange
Championing equity through shared knowledge and advocacy
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Why Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month Matters
Pancreatic cancer is often called a silent killer, with vague symptoms and one of the lowest survival rates of all cancers. Every November, Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month shines a light on this overlooked disease, pushing for research, equity in care, and earlier detection while honoring patients, survivors, and families.
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What I Shared at the Toastmasters Meeting
Dr. Yvette Colón challenges the “hero survivor” myth in her Toastmasters speech, sharing a more honest, inclusive view of cancer survivorship.
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Writing About Trauma: How I Found the Courage to Tell My Story
Memoir writing forced me to relive painful moments, but it also gave me a voice. This post explores what it really takes to write about medical trauma as a survivor.
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5 Things I Learned After My Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis
A candid look at the emotional and practical lessons I had to learn quickly after hearing the words no one ever expects: “You have pancreatic cancer.”
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Why Health Equity Is More Than Just a Buzzword
Dr. Yvette Colón explains what health equity is, how it differs from health disparities, and why systemic racism in healthcare demands urgent change.
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What It’s Like to Navigate Cancer Care as a BIPOC Woman
Being a BIPOC patient shaped how I was treated, heard, and supported. This post explores the intersection of identity and care in the cancer system.
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When the Doctor Doesn’t Believe You: A Personal Story of Medical Dismissal
A true story from my treatment journey that highlights how deeply medical racism can affect care and why we must speak out and share these experiences.
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From Lecture Halls to the Frontlines: How My Early Medical Missions Sparked a Lifelong Pursuit of Healthcare Equity
On my first medical mission to Mexico, I watched families travel through the night for a simple eye exam. That moment forever shifted my view of medicine and sparked my lifelong fight for healthcare equity.
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Patient Self-Advocacy: How to Speak Up at the Doctor’s Office
Speaking up in the exam room isn’t easy, especially when you’re exhausted or scared. Here’s how to advocate for yourself effectively and respectfully.
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8 Practical Tips for Your First Oncology Appointment
Dr. Yvette Colón shares 8 practical tips to help newly diagnosed cancer patients prepare for their first oncology appointment with clarity and confidence.
