Beth Fairchild is an artist, activist, and yogi who has been living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) since her unexpected diagnosis in 2014. Despite having no prior symptoms and a recent negative mammogram, Beth’s journey revealed a significant lack of representation and research funding for the MBC community. In response, Beth initiated the powerful social media movement #DontIgnoreStageIV, connecting with METAvivor and serving on their Board of Directors as Vice President and eventually as President.

Previously, Beth was a renowned tattoo artist specializing in permanent cosmetics and areola complex tattooing. Though she has retired from tattooing due to peripheral neuropathy from chemotherapy, Beth continues to advocate for those living with breast cancer. She now focuses on yoga, healthy living, travel, gardening, crocheting, and enjoying family life.

Beth’s organization, Cancer Culture, is pivotal in reshaping the breast cancer narrative. Their mission includes authentic storytelling, raising awareness, and supporting life-saving research. Cancer Culture’s transformative events, such as patient retreats and art exhibits, foster community and emotional healing, while their social content aims to shift perceptions and create a sense of representation for all affected by breast cancer.

We are honored to have Beth Fairchild as an esteemed patient advocate speaker at MetGala SCV 2024. Her dedication and advocacy reflect the spirit of our event, and we look forward to her impactful contribution.

Stay tuned for more updates as the gala approaches. We are excited to hear from both of our incredible speakers!

For more information about Beth and Cancer Culture, visit their website and follow their inspiring work.

Dr. Teshome is a leading breast surgical oncologist known for her dedication to advancing breast cancer care and improving health equity. Her extensive background includes a fellowship in Breast Surgical Oncology from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, an MPH from Harvard School of Public Health, and an MD from the University of Michigan Medical School.

Dr. Teshome's career highlights include her previous role as an associate professor at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where she also served as the program director of the Breast Surgical Oncology Fellowship Program. Her contributions to the field have been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Breast Surgical Faculty Excellence in Research Mentorship Award.

At UCLA Health, Dr. Teshome will lead the breast surgical oncology efforts, including those at the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her work will focus on advancing clinical practice, fostering collaborative research, and supporting the training of future leaders in breast surgical oncology, making a significant impact on the field.

Dr. Teshome’s recent interview on KFI, where she discusses her vision for breast cancer care at UCLA, highlights her passion and commitment. You can watch the interview here.

We are excited to welcome Dr. Teshome as our keynote speaker and look forward to her impactful address at MetGala SCV 2024. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the gala. We can’t wait to see you there!

For more information about Dr. Teshome’s work and achievements, visit her biography and read her recent appointment at UCLA Health here.