Abstract PO2-11-12: The power of storytelling to heal, build community, and understand the experiences of Black breast cancer survivors
Authors: McCullough Lauren , Young Cynthia , Bowden Chava , Gardner Madison , Berry Breanna , Smith Alexix , Bryant Jacquelyn Anthony 
Published: May 2024

Background: The BRIDGE community focus group was designed to support and empower current and former Black breast cancer patients. The overarching goals of the focus group were to provide a mechanism for participants to amplify their voices through storytelling, foster healing, and establish a supportive community. Additionally, the research team aimed to gather qualitative data on social support, treatment adherence barriers, interactions with medical providers, and experiences with race and racism within and outside of the healthcare system.

Approach: The focus group consisted of six sessions, each with a specific agenda and activities. Participants were encouraged to keep journals throughout the program. Each session began with an icebreaker and journal discussion. Session-specific activities were designed to encourage self-reflection, exploration of personal identities, and discussion of fears. These topics were explored through creative outlets such as role-play, storyboards, and jewelry-making. Each session ended with a unifying affirmation and opportunity for fellowship.

Results: We enrolled 10 Black women previously diagnosed with breast cancer and provided a safe space for them to reflect on their breast cancer journey, associated fears, and the role of race in their healthcare experience. Participants discussed positive and negative experiences with healthcare providers, highlighting the knowledge and access gaps that often exist in marginalized communities. The program also provided insights into the multi-level concept of support and its impact on breast cancer outcomes. Participants discussed the positive aspects of familial and community support but identified several areas where system and structural supports may have improved their outcomes. After completing all six sessions, women reported an improvement in their overall self-actualization and purpose—with several describing their time in the program as ‘life-changing’. Notably, the focus group facilitated deep connection and friendship among participants and improved general wellness and satisfaction.

Discussion: Through the sharing of personal narratives and supportive discussions, the focus group created a safe environment where participants felt empowered to express their emotions, address challenges, and dismantle fears related to breast cancer mortality. The BRIDGE research team will summarize the themes that emerged across sessions to share with scientific, clinical, and community stakeholders. In parallel, they will explore opportunities for continued community building and support for participants beyond the focus group sessions. Overall, this storytelling focus group showcased the significance of amplifying the voices of historically marginalized groups, providing support, and fostering community. The insights gained have the potential to inform future interventions and support services for Black breast cancer survivors, addressing their unique needs and challenges and ultimately improving cancer health equity.

Citation Format: Lauren McCullough, Cynthia Young, Chava Bowden, Madison Gardner, Breanna Berry, Alexix Smith, Jacquelyn Anthony Bryant. The power of storytelling to heal, build community, and understand the experiences of Black breast cancer survivors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO2-11-12.