May 17, 2024

Maternal Mental Health Month Spotlight: The Resilient Journey of Liza Pruna 

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In recognition of Maternal Mental Health Month, it is crucial to shed light on the stories that encapsulate the intersection of pregnancy and health challenges. One such story is that of Liza Pruna, who, through her battles and triumphs, has become a beacon of hope and resilience for many. This month, we spotlight Liza’s personal narrative—not just as a tale of overcoming but as a critical conversation starter about the support pregnant mothers battling cancer desperately need. 

Liza Pruna’s background as an Afro Latina brings an essential perspective to the discussion. It reflects not only her diverse heritage but also the broader conversation about the disparities and challenges women of color face in accessing healthcare. Her story is a potent reminder of the need for greater awareness, representation, and support within the healthcare system for all women, especially those navigating pregnancy amid health challenges. 

Liza Pruna, 38, the Community Director of Journi for Two, shares her invaluable insights and experiences on managing cancer while pregnant in her early 20s. Despite facing tremendous challenges, including miscarriages and being told she could never have children following her cancer diagnosis, Liza’s story is one of defiance against the odds. Today, she is a proud mother to four living children, carrying the memory of one lost due to complications related to her health battles. 

Her involvement with Journi for Two—an organization dedicated to supporting pregnant mothers battling breast cancer—is not just a professional role; it is a commitment forged from personal struggles. The importance of a robust support system during such vulnerable times cannot be overstated. Liza emphasizes from her experience how critical it is for expectant mothers in similar circumstances to have a network of understanding, care, and resources. 

One poignant aspect of Liza’s story is her endeavor to find medical professionals who would support her pregnancy post-diagnosis. Her persistence and advocacy for herself highlight a crucial message for all women—never shy away from seeking a second opinion and fighting for your maternal rights. Furthermore, Liza touches on the significance of regular health screenings, such as pap smears and the use of Bexa Breast Exam technology, underscoring the life-saving potential of early detection. The dialogue around maternal mental health is incomplete without acknowledging the specific hurdles encountered by pregnant mothers battling chronic diseases like cancer. Liza’s story, marked by resilience and advocacy, serves as an inspiration and a call to action. It urges the healthcare system, support organizations, and the broader community to bolster their efforts in supporting these brave women. 

Maternal Mental Health Month is a time for reflection, advocacy, and action. By spotlighting Liza Pruna’s remarkable journey, we are reminded of the strength inherent in shared experiences and the powerful impact of compassion and support. Journi for Two is not only a testament to Liza’s dedication but a beacon of hope for many others in similar plights. 

To all mothers facing health challenges during pregnancy, know that your strength is seen, your resilience is admired, and you are not alone. Organizations like Journi for Two, led by individuals like Liza Pruna, are here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can build a more inclusive and supportive community for every mother, regardless of the battles they may face. 

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What Women Say About the BEA

“This type of examination should be used worldwide. Bring in the Bexa exam to all women!”

Jane D.

“The exam was/is stress free. The examiner made me feel very comfortable. She took her time with me told me about every step-in advance, and before performing each step asked if I were OK and ready. I am thankful for the kindness it made this breast exam very easy/comfortable. I recommend all men be examined we are not immune; and early detection can save your life!”

Jane D.

“I would like to thank the intake person from the bottom of my heart.  She was extremely kind, understanding, and thoughtful towards my situation.  She is an asset and the perfect face for this business.  Thank you for easing my fears.”

Jane D.

“This process was comforting from the time of arrival until the time I filled out the survey. Tiara greeted offered a gracious greeting and was extremely helpful with navigating the check-in process. Jerri, the examiner took time explain the process and addressed all of my questions. She was friendly and professional. It is my hope that this breast examine process will be widely available in doctor’s offices throughout the country. We need this vital service! And Black women will certainly benefit from this exam because of the nature of dense breast. Thank you for making this service available! Lastly, I am grateful to Touch for sponsoring Bexa Equity Alliance to perform this vital service for our community.”

Jane D.

“I absolutely loved this process.  More women would get regular screening if this was offered.”

Jane D.

“This was great, and Jerri was so kind! I feel seen and heard. I explained that I am 29 years old, have lost both of my biological grandmothers to breast cancer and have never gotten a mammogram. These ladies were so welcoming, kind, and helpful.”

“The exam was thorough, and the team made me feel extremely comfortable.”

“It was awesome experiencing this new technology for the first time. It was pain free. There was no squeezing, bearing down or pressure. It was very relaxing, like having a massage.”

“I felt a sense of peace with a new sense of support that would ordinarily be a very painful and stressful experience.”

“Thank you for providing a non-anxious breast exam. The music, the warm table and the summary of the examiner were expressions of compassion.”

“The examiner Jerri was gentle, professional, and empathetic,  explaining the procedure including possible next follow-up steps. Tiara who did intake was very professional and warm. I needed to change my time slot and the grace with which she handled the inconvenience was exceptional. Thank you for offering this gift to us!”

“Best breast exam I’ve ever received.”

“As close to exam perfection as possible.”

“It was phenomenal the examiner was gentle and professional.”

“I absolutely loved this process.  More women would get regular screening if this was offered.”

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We’re pleased to announce that the Bexa Equity Alliance will be joining @touchbbca and @touch4lifeinc again this year at the 10th annual Ubiquitous Women’s Expo!

Join us and don’t miss out on learning about Black Breast Health and Cancer, exploring genomic and genetics, and getting a FREE Bexa Breast Exam. Get your ticket today at the link in our bio.

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #Advisor #BexaFamily #UbiquitousExpo #UbiquitousWomensExpo

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We’re pleased to announce that the Bexa Equity Alliance will be joining @touchbbca and @touch4lifeinc again this year at the 10th annual Ubiquitous Women’s Expo! Join us and don’t miss out on learning about Black Breast Health and Cancer, exploring genomic and genetics, and getting a FREE Bexa Breast Exam. Get your ticket today at the link in our bio. #BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #Advisor #BexaFamily #UbiquitousExpo #UbiquitousWomensExpo

We’re pleased to announce that the Bexa Equity Alliance will be joining @touchbbca and @touch4lifeinc again this year at the 10th annual Ubiquitous Women’s Expo!

Join us and don’t miss out on learning about Black Breast Health and Cancer, exploring genomic and genetics, and getting a FREE Bexa Breast Exam. Get your ticket today at the link in our bio.

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #Advisor #BexaFamily #UbiquitousExpo #UbiquitousWomensExpo ...

We`re excited to highlight our newest BEA Board Member, Adenike Opetubo!

Adenike is a visionary finance leader with extensive experience in strategic finance, financial planning, reporting and analysis and for a wide range of business settings including nonprofit, corporate and client advisory. Adenike is currently in the Finance Leadership Development Program at The Cigna Group. She also owns and operates a management consulting firm focused on supporting small businesses and nonprofit organizations.

Adenike has deep expertise for nonprofit finance and leverages her skills to help nonprofits scale and expand their reach. Adenike has worked with a wide range of organizations including the Arts, Education, Advocacy, Cultural Institutions and Youth Development. She has a natural ability to draw strategic insights that aid in identifying solutions to key business challenges, optimize financial processes, and adopting procedures that ensure sustained profitability. Adenike has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a track record of driving financial success through strategic planning, operational optimization, and collaborative leadership.

Adenike obtained her Master of Business Administration in Corporate Finance and Corporate Strategy from the University of Notre Dame and Bachelor of Science in Finance from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Adenike is active in her community as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., a volunteer for Citizen Schools, East Harlem Tutorial Program and New York Cares Tax prep and SAT prep.

Learn more about the BEA and our life-saving mission at www.bexaequityalliance.org

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #Advisor #BexaFamily

Open
We're excited to highlight our newest BEA Board Member, Adenike Opetubo! Adenike is a visionary finance leader with extensive experience in strategic finance, financial planning, reporting and analysis and for a wide range of business settings including nonprofit, corporate and client advisory. Adenike is currently in the Finance Leadership Development Program at The Cigna Group. She also owns and operates a management consulting firm focused on supporting small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Adenike has deep expertise for nonprofit finance and leverages her skills to help nonprofits scale and expand their reach. Adenike has worked with a wide range of organizations including the Arts, Education, Advocacy, Cultural Institutions and Youth Development. She has a natural ability to draw strategic insights that aid in identifying solutions to key business challenges, optimize financial processes, and adopting procedures that ensure sustained profitability. Adenike has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a track record of driving financial success through strategic planning, operational optimization, and collaborative leadership. Adenike obtained her Master of Business Administration in Corporate Finance and Corporate Strategy from the University of Notre Dame and Bachelor of Science in Finance from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Adenike is active in her community as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., a volunteer for Citizen Schools, East Harlem Tutorial Program and New York Cares Tax prep and SAT prep. Learn more about the BEA and our life-saving mission at www.bexaequityalliance.org #BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #Advisor #BexaFamily

We`re excited to highlight our newest BEA Board Member, Adenike Opetubo!

Adenike is a visionary finance leader with extensive experience in strategic finance, financial planning, reporting and analysis and for a wide range of business settings including nonprofit, corporate and client advisory. Adenike is currently in the Finance Leadership Development Program at The Cigna Group. She also owns and operates a management consulting firm focused on supporting small businesses and nonprofit organizations.

Adenike has deep expertise for nonprofit finance and leverages her skills to help nonprofits scale and expand their reach. Adenike has worked with a wide range of organizations including the Arts, Education, Advocacy, Cultural Institutions and Youth Development. She has a natural ability to draw strategic insights that aid in identifying solutions to key business challenges, optimize financial processes, and adopting procedures that ensure sustained profitability. Adenike has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a track record of driving financial success through strategic planning, operational optimization, and collaborative leadership.

Adenike obtained her Master of Business Administration in Corporate Finance and Corporate Strategy from the University of Notre Dame and Bachelor of Science in Finance from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Adenike is active in her community as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., a volunteer for Citizen Schools, East Harlem Tutorial Program and New York Cares Tax prep and SAT prep.

Learn more about the BEA and our life-saving mission at www.bexaequityalliance.org

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #Advisor #BexaFamily ...

We had an incredible time in Martha’s Vineyard with our amazing partners from Touch, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance!

This week was dedicated to educating women about breast health and providing FREE Bexa breast exams to the women on the vineyard living their best lives. The turnout far exceeded our expectations—we fully booked all available exam slots (and some off of our waitlist), allowing us to scan over 60+ women in just a few days! The demand was high and we were thrilled to provide a peaceful breast exam just a couple of blocks up from the beach.

Stay tuned for upcoming BEA events where you can join us and receive your complimentary Bexa Breast Exam, courtesy of our faithful sponsors and donors! Subscribe on our website to be the first to know where we will be next!

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #MarthasVineyard #OakBluffs #Edgartown #HBCU #Summer2024 #BEA

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We had an incredible time in Martha’s Vineyard with our amazing partners from Touch, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance! This week was dedicated to educating women about breast health and providing FREE Bexa breast exams to the women on the vineyard living their best lives. The turnout far exceeded our expectations—we fully booked all available exam slots (and some off of our waitlist), allowing us to scan over 60+ women in just a few days! The demand was high and we were thrilled to provide a peaceful breast exam just a couple of blocks up from the beach. Stay tuned for upcoming BEA events where you can join us and receive your complimentary Bexa Breast Exam, courtesy of our faithful sponsors and donors! Subscribe on our website to be the first to know where we will be next! #BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #MarthasVineyard #OakBluffs #Edgartown #HBCU #Summer2024 #BEA

We had an incredible time in Martha’s Vineyard with our amazing partners from Touch, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance!

This week was dedicated to educating women about breast health and providing FREE Bexa breast exams to the women on the vineyard living their best lives. The turnout far exceeded our expectations—we fully booked all available exam slots (and some off of our waitlist), allowing us to scan over 60+ women in just a few days! The demand was high and we were thrilled to provide a peaceful breast exam just a couple of blocks up from the beach.

Stay tuned for upcoming BEA events where you can join us and receive your complimentary Bexa Breast Exam, courtesy of our faithful sponsors and donors! Subscribe on our website to be the first to know where we will be next!

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #MarthasVineyard #OakBluffs #Edgartown #HBCU #Summer2024 #BEA ...

We`re pleased to announce one of our newer BEA Advisors, Christina Campbell!

Christina is an engaged fundraising professional that is dedicated to supporting organizations to provide the best level of support for their community. She understands that many organizations have ambitious goals for their future and growth, neither of which will be possible without financial support to create a sustainable and innovative approach to their plan. Christina is excited to support any organization in their strategic goals and is continuously inspired by each one’s mission and initiatives.

Most recently, Christina was an Assistant Head of School at a private school in Los Angeles. As a new and growing school, Christina took on many roles at the start-up that included fundraising, admissions, curriculum development, and campus expansion. These skills allowed her to learn the building blocks and foundations of any organization, understanding the intricate nature of how an organization operates while prioritizing the mission and core values above all else.

Christina also worked at Philips Brooks School in Menlo Park, and St. James’ Episcopal School in Los Angeles in their development offices. She worked on both annual and capital giving campaigns, reaching financial and participation goals while also establishing moves management systems and streamlining donor processes. Her work in independent schools has been illustrated in high level strategic planning and donor relations.

Learn more about the BEA and our life-saving mission at www.bexaequityalliance.org

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #Advisor #BexaFamily

Open
We're pleased to announce one of our newer BEA Advisors, Christina Campbell! Christina is an engaged fundraising professional that is dedicated to supporting organizations to provide the best level of support for their community. She understands that many organizations have ambitious goals for their future and growth, neither of which will be possible without financial support to create a sustainable and innovative approach to their plan. Christina is excited to support any organization in their strategic goals and is continuously inspired by each one’s mission and initiatives. Most recently, Christina was an Assistant Head of School at a private school in Los Angeles. As a new and growing school, Christina took on many roles at the start-up that included fundraising, admissions, curriculum development, and campus expansion. These skills allowed her to learn the building blocks and foundations of any organization, understanding the intricate nature of how an organization operates while prioritizing the mission and core values above all else. Christina also worked at Philips Brooks School in Menlo Park, and St. James’ Episcopal School in Los Angeles in their development offices. She worked on both annual and capital giving campaigns, reaching financial and participation goals while also establishing moves management systems and streamlining donor processes. Her work in independent schools has been illustrated in high level strategic planning and donor relations. Learn more about the BEA and our life-saving mission at www.bexaequityalliance.org #BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #Advisor #BexaFamily

We`re pleased to announce one of our newer BEA Advisors, Christina Campbell!

Christina is an engaged fundraising professional that is dedicated to supporting organizations to provide the best level of support for their community. She understands that many organizations have ambitious goals for their future and growth, neither of which will be possible without financial support to create a sustainable and innovative approach to their plan. Christina is excited to support any organization in their strategic goals and is continuously inspired by each one’s mission and initiatives.

Most recently, Christina was an Assistant Head of School at a private school in Los Angeles. As a new and growing school, Christina took on many roles at the start-up that included fundraising, admissions, curriculum development, and campus expansion. These skills allowed her to learn the building blocks and foundations of any organization, understanding the intricate nature of how an organization operates while prioritizing the mission and core values above all else.

Christina also worked at Philips Brooks School in Menlo Park, and St. James’ Episcopal School in Los Angeles in their development offices. She worked on both annual and capital giving campaigns, reaching financial and participation goals while also establishing moves management systems and streamlining donor processes. Her work in independent schools has been illustrated in high level strategic planning and donor relations.

Learn more about the BEA and our life-saving mission at www.bexaequityalliance.org

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #Advisor #BexaFamily ...

World Cancer Support Month, observed annually in August, stands as a beacon of solidarity and hope for those affected by cancer across the globe. This dedicated month serves as a reminder of the immense strength, resilience, and compassion that unite individuals, families, and communities in the face of this challenging disease.

Join the Bexa Equity Alliance in providing FREE early detection breast exams to under-resourced women by donating at the link in our bio.

#WorldCancerSupportMonth #BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BEA #NoWomanLeftBehind #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience

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World Cancer Support Month, observed annually in August, stands as a beacon of solidarity and hope for those affected by cancer across the globe. This dedicated month serves as a reminder of the immense strength, resilience, and compassion that unite individuals, families, and communities in the face of this challenging disease. Join the Bexa Equity Alliance in providing FREE early detection breast exams to under-resourced women by donating at the link in our bio. #WorldCancerSupportMonth #BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BEA #NoWomanLeftBehind #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience

World Cancer Support Month, observed annually in August, stands as a beacon of solidarity and hope for those affected by cancer across the globe. This dedicated month serves as a reminder of the immense strength, resilience, and compassion that unite individuals, families, and communities in the face of this challenging disease.

Join the Bexa Equity Alliance in providing FREE early detection breast exams to under-resourced women by donating at the link in our bio.

#WorldCancerSupportMonth #BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BEA #NoWomanLeftBehind #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience ...

We are thrilled to announce the newest addition to the Bexa Equity Alliance Advisory Members, Dr. Wendy Garvin Mayo, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC. With over two decades of experience in clinical, leadership, research, academia, and the pharmaceutical sectors, Dr. Garvin Mayo is a distinguished healthcare leader who brings unparalleled expertise and passion to our mission.

Read the full story at the link in our bio.

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BEA #NoWomanLeftBehind #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #HealthcareLeader #BexaMission

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We are thrilled to announce the newest addition to the Bexa Equity Alliance Advisory Members, Dr. Wendy Garvin Mayo, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC. With over two decades of experience in clinical, leadership, research, academia, and the pharmaceutical sectors, Dr. Garvin Mayo is a distinguished healthcare leader who brings unparalleled expertise and passion to our mission. Read the full story at the link in our bio. #BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BEA #NoWomanLeftBehind #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #HealthcareLeader #BexaMission

We are thrilled to announce the newest addition to the Bexa Equity Alliance Advisory Members, Dr. Wendy Garvin Mayo, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC. With over two decades of experience in clinical, leadership, research, academia, and the pharmaceutical sectors, Dr. Garvin Mayo is a distinguished healthcare leader who brings unparalleled expertise and passion to our mission.

Read the full story at the link in our bio.

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BEA #NoWomanLeftBehind #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience #HealthcareLeader #BexaMission ...

At the Bexa Equity Alliance, we are revolutionizing the way that women across the world experience care - one Bexa Breast Exam at a time.

Explore the link in our bio to learn more about the BEA and our mission.

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience

Open
At the Bexa Equity Alliance, we are revolutionizing the way that women across the world experience care - one Bexa Breast Exam at a time. Explore the link in our bio to learn more about the BEA and our mission. #BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience

At the Bexa Equity Alliance, we are revolutionizing the way that women across the world experience care - one Bexa Breast Exam at a time.

Explore the link in our bio to learn more about the BEA and our mission.

#BexaEquityAlliance #BreastExams #BreastExamsMadeBetter #BexaBreastExam #EarlyDetection #LifeSavingMission #FreeBreastExams #BexaExperience ...