Cancer Culture Group Image of the members of Cancer Culture
Cancer Culture: Redefining the Narrative Around Breast Cancer

Cancer Culture: Redefining the Narrative Around Breast Cancer

Dana Donofree
3 min read

Cancer Culture: Redefining the Narrative Around Breast Cancer

In the heart of the bustling fashion world, a movement is taking shape—a movement that goes beyond mere aesthetics to address a pressing public health concern: breast cancer.

Cancer Culture, a dynamic collective of patients and advocates, is on a mission to reshape the conversation surrounding this disease, advocating for the voices of those affected—regardless of gender identity.

Who is Cancer Culture?

Cancer Culture is more than just an organization; they are a passionate group dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer among women, men, and non-binary or genderqueer individuals. Their mission is clear: to produce transformative events that empower those living with breast cancer. Through the lens of photography and videography, they capture the authentic stories of patients, shining a light on the realities of living with this illness.

Their Mission

At the core of their mission is the desire to shift the paradigm of how breast cancer is perceived. They aim to redefine the face of breast cancer through art, culture, and equitable development. By documenting patient experiences, they challenge the stereotype that breast cancer defines those who battle it. Instead, they celebrate the strength, resilience, and diversity of individuals living with the disease.

Storytelling as a Catalyst for Change

Storytelling is their foundation. They believe that sharing authentic patient experiences not only raises awareness but also provokes and inspires change. Their efforts foster community among patients, bridging the gap between early and late-stage experiences. They strive to create a sense of belonging, helping individuals heal mentally and emotionally through artistic expression and fellowship.

Transformative Events and Community Building

Cancer Culture organizes a variety of transformative events, including patient and caregiver retreats, fashion shows, concerts, and art exhibits. These gatherings allow patients to come together, create lasting memories, and build meaningful relationships. Our commitment to community is evident in every initiative, as we work to ensure that every voice is heard and every story is told.

A Platform for All

Their multimedia outreach program serves as a vital platform for early-stage patients to share their stories and for terminally ill patients to leave a lasting legacy. They provide a space where anyone navigating a breast cancer diagnosis can feel seen and represented—where stories resonate and experiences echo.

AnaOno x Cancer Culture at NYFW

One of the highlights of their efforts is their collaboration with us, AnaOno. For the past five years, we have joined forces to present “The Revolution for Pink” during New York Fashion Week. This groundbreaking show not only raises awareness but also funds critical research in metastatic breast cancer.

Co-founded by the late Champagne Joy, who passed away from metastatic breast cancer shortly after our first show, this initiative honors her legacy. Co-founders Beth Fairchild and Rachel Burns have continued to carry this torch, raising over $280,000 for metastatic breast cancer research. Each model on the runway has been personally affected by breast cancer, wearing AnaOno bras as a symbol of strength and resilience.

AnaOno x Cancer Culture for New York Fashion Week 2023

Join Their Mission

As Cancer Culture continue to grow and expand their reach, we invite you to join them in their mission. They are actively seeking to enhance their affiliate programs and develop deeper connections within the community. By understanding their goals and refining their strategies, they aim to create even more impactful events and outreach initiatives.

Together, they can redefine the narrative surrounding breast cancer, fostering a culture of awareness, acceptance, and empowerment. Whether through participating in events, sharing your story, or simply spreading the word, your involvement is crucial in this fight.

Let’s all work together to change the way the world thinks about breast cancer—one story, one event, and one voice at a time. For more information on how you can get involved, visit Cancer Culture and be part of this transformative movement.

Dana Donofree
Dana Donofree

Founder and CEO of AnaOno. After a diagnosis of breast cancer in her late 20’s, Dana took her own lived experience and fashion design background and (re)designed intimates for those that have undergone breast surgery. Dana’s story has been published around the world in outlets like New York Times, BBC, Huffington Post, The Today Show, and more.