Dr. Yvette Colón
Cancer Survivor & Healthcare Equity Advocate
My Mission:
Blending personal resilience with professional expertise to empower others in the struggle for equity in health care.
From Provider to Patient Advocate
Before stepping into advocacy, I had the privilege of dedicating decades to eye care as a director of eye care services and assistant professor in both the United States and New Zealand.
Throughout my career, I focused on serving marginalized communities, addressing complex eye diseases, and mentoring future clinicians on the importance of culturally competent care.
Whether I was teaching or providing treatment, I always prioritized the principles of dignity, access, and compassion, ensuring that every patient felt seen and heard.
My Cancer Diagnosis Changed Everything
I never expected to become “the patient”.
When I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, a disease known for its devastating prognosis, I was stunned. My doctors offered little hope. But I fought. And as I moved through the brutal phases of treatment and recovery, I discovered a strength I didn’t know I had.
My experience confirmed what I had already known: how deeply flawed the system I had worked within truly is, particularly for people of color.
My survival came with a mission: To use my voice to advocate for health equity.
Why I Speak Out
Today, I speak up for those who are dismissed, under-treated, and overlooked.
Through my writing, speaking, and community work, I focus on dismantling medical racism and empowering patients, especially BIPOC cancer survivors, to advocate for their care.
I’m committed to making sure no one has to navigate the system alone, unheard, or unseen.
Racial disparities continue to determine who is heard and who receives equitable care.
Fruit From the Manchineel Tree
My memoir weaves together my survival story within the systemic injustices of the U.S. healthcare system. I recount my battle with pancreatic cancer and the medical racism I encountered as a woman of color while reflecting on the insights gained from these experiences.
Empowering Stories
& Advocacy Tips
Visit my blog for personal reflections, practical guidance, and advocacy tips to help you navigate the healthcare system with confidence and courage.
Book Me for Speaking Engagements
Topics include patient advocacy, health equity, resilience, and surviving challenges.
Join the movement for change.
Let’s Connect
Have a question, collaboration idea, or just want to say hello? I’d love to hear from you.