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Turning Your Pain Into Purpose with Test Those Breasts Jamie Vaughn this October.


Turning Your Pain Into Purpose with Test Those Breasts Jamie Vaughn this October. Navigating Life After Breast Cancer: The Journey and the Power of Advocacy.


This honest, heartfelt conversation offers a deeply personal look at what it means to face a life-changing diagnosis, the importance of intuition, and the power of sharing your story. In the latest episode of "Clear Voices of Hope," host Lisa Malia welcomes Jamie Vaughn, a fellow advocate, breast cancer survivor, nonprofit founder, and podcast host.


Life Before and After Diagnosis


Before her diagnosis, Jamie describes herself as a “mover and shaker.” She spent 20 years as a social studies teacher, maintained a packed schedule with side businesses, and cherished her role as a dog mom, wife, stepmom, and grandmother. She vividly remembers her retirement party—a moment she had looked forward to for years—being upended by a notification reminding her it was time for a mammogram.


Although Jamie was diligent about her breast health, she almost dismissed some concerning symptoms until her husband gently reminded her to speak up. That advocacy—for herself and from loved ones—proved crucial. Her diagnosis came quickly after that mammogram, changing the trajectory of her life when she should have been easing into retirement.


Facing a New Reality


Jamie openly shares the whirlwind of emotions following her diagnosis: anger, fear, and disbelief. Like many survivors, she thought she could simply "power through." She wasn’t prepared for how much life would change or for the grief that set in—not just over her health, but over the loss of plans and her familiar sense of identity.


But as Jamie illustrates, feeling those emotions and acknowledging the magnitude of what’s happening is essential. “No one gets to tell you, including yourself, that it is not a big deal,” she says. That realization proved to be just one of many turning points.


The Turning Points


Jamie’s survivorship journey is marked by transformative moments. One significant step was reclaiming control in the face of so much unpredictability—starting with her hair. When chemotherapy meant she would lose her hair, she chose to get a bold new haircut alongside her friends. Embracing these smaller choices helped her face larger decisions, like advocating for the right type of reconstructive surgery after her mastectomy.


That advocacy wasn’t always easy. Jamie had to let go of her local medical team in Reno and seek specialized care in New Orleans, pushing through unfamiliar territory for the sake of her well-being. Her story is a powerful reminder that, as patients, we can—and must—be our own advocates.


Survivorship and Purpose


Surviving cancer is only the beginning of the journey. After treatment, Jamie found herself grappling with her identity and purpose. The support she received from her therapist, friends, and the breast cancer community was critical. Through open conversations about trauma, depression, and the realities of “moving on,” Jamie discovered the importance of sharing her experience with others.


That passion led her to launch her own podcast and nonprofit, "Test Those Breasts." Jamie’s mission is clear: amplify survivor voices, provide reliable resources, and support women through both their diagnosis and the often overlooked “after” of cancer care.


The Power of Community and Advocacy


Jamie and Lisa discuss the ongoing need for education about dense breast tissue, the importance of speaking up for your health, and—crucially—the fight for access to quality care. Jamie’s advocacy extends to helping others appeal insurance denials, educating about genetic risks, and providing a supportive space for women who may not even be thinking about breast cancer yet.


For Jamie, and for "Clear Voices of Hope," survivorship is about more than survival—it’s about living with authenticity, using your voice, and ensuring that no one faces this journey alone.


Key Takeaway:

Listen to your intuition, find your voice, and reach out for support. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a survivor, or a loved one, you are not alone. Communities like those fostered by Jamie and Lisa are here for education, advocacy, and—most importantly—hope.


*For more survivor stories and reliable breast health resources, listen to "Clear Voices of Hope" and visit Tests Those Breasts. And remember: your voice matters—in your doctor’s office, in advocacy, and in your own healing journey.*


Learn More About The Clear Pathways Program: https://www.breastdensitysummit.org/


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Write your representative: Pre drafted letters on current topic at Women's Health Advocates: https://womenshealthadvocates.org/write-to-congress/#/

 

Follow Lisa Malia:



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