On Sept. 19, Nebraska Medicine | Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center welcomed attendees to BARE for the first time since 2019. The event was designed for people newly diagnosed with breast cancer and those considering risk-reducing surgery. It was open to patients regardless of where they receive care.
Presented in partnership with Project Pink'd, the event brought together nearly 20 women and their guests. Breast surgical oncologists, plastic surgeons, and radiation oncologists discussed treatment pathways, reconstruction options, and survivorship.
“We are grateful to see BARE return and work alongside Nebraska Medicine on an event that provides such valuable education and connection,” says Shawn Garza, executive director of Project Pink'd. “Facing breast cancer or making decisions about risk-reducing surgery can feel overwhelming, and no one should have to navigate those decisions feeling alone.”
Garza adds that BARE eases isolation by combining clinical education with support from people with firsthand experience.
“There is something incredibly powerful about learning from medical experts while also connecting with survivors who have walked this path themselves,” she says. “At Project Pink'd, we want every person to know there is a community ready to stand beside them.”
Clinical expertise meets lived experience
The program gave participants evidence-based information, helped set treatment expectations, and created time for questions with clinical experts.
A patient “show and tell” session offered a firsthand view of surgical outcomes. Women who had undergone procedures ranging from lumpectomy to mastectomy with several reconstructive approaches discussed their decisions, recovery, and life after treatment.
“As surgeons, we always describe the surgical options to our patients, but who better to give them a complete picture of the experience than women who have been through it themselves?” asks breast surgical oncologist Janelle-Cheri Millen, MBBS.
That firsthand perspective complements the clinical discussion and helps patients identify the option that best fits their needs.
“Our goal is to empower patients to make the decision that works best for them,” Dr. Millen says.
Organizers hope to offer BARE at regular intervals throughout the year to meet the ongoing need for breast cancer education and support.
For more information
For information about BARE or other cancer-related educational events, email physicianoutreach@nebraskamed.com.