How did our guest's personal experience of dealing with infertility, giving birth, and a cancer diagnosis shape her perspective on the importance of storytelling and advocacy for young women? We begin a profound and emotional two-part series featuring Bess Hagans, a remarkable woman who has navigated the harrowing journey of breast cancer while balancing the joys and challenges of motherhood. She is the winner of the 2024 Brady Ware Women of Excellence Award. In this first part, Bess shares her personal story of being diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer amidst the whirlwind of infertility treatments and new motherhood. She talks about the creation of her nonprofit organization, Thriving Beyond Breast Cancer, designed to support young women, ages 21 to 40, diagnosed with breast cancer at any stage. We discuss the vital financial assistance her organization provides, the crucial mental health support programs they offer, and the importance of advocating for oneself within the healthcare system. Bess also touches on the essential nature of collaboration over exclusivity in partnerships and how setting personal and professional boundaries can foster success and well-being. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or practical advice, this conversation is filled with resilience, purpose, and actionable insights for making a real difference. Inspiring Moments 05:43 Facing unexpected serious illness shifts life fundamentally. 07:26 Financial assistance for women diagnosed with breast cancer. 10:49 Life in New York taught valuable lessons. 15:18 Advocate for health, empower through voice. 17:06 Challenges, change, and raising funds for nonprofit. 21:19 Setting boundaries to balance work and life. 25:23 Feedback and diversity crucial for nonprofit success. 28:35 Columbus is important for research and networking. 29:48 Balancing mission with financial partnerships in Columbus. 33:58 Women's groups in Columbus support business owners. 37:01 Panel discussion on women's wellness and wealth. 39:00 Woman awarded for social media presence excellence. Inspiring Takeaways The importance of organizations dedicated to supporting young women (ages 21 to 40) diagnosed with breast cancer by providing financial aid, mental health programs, and other essential resources. Financial stipends offered to women making less than $155,000 annually to help offset cancer treatment costs without requiring receipts, emphasizing trust and ease. The value of mental health programs that include both in-person and virtual support groups, licensed therapists, and upcoming one-on-one therapy options to ensure holistic care for cancer patients. The critical need for individuals to advocate for themselves in the healthcare system to ensure they receive adequate medical attention and understand their risk factors. The importance of non-exclusive collaborations with other organizations and avoiding partnerships with big pharmaceutical companies to maintain integrity and patient-first values. \ The necessity of setting boundaries for work-life balance, productivity, and managing the complex challenges of running a nonprofit while dealing with personal health and family obligations. Strategies for dealing with criticism while staying true to the mission, vision, and goals of one's organization, and managing personal well-being. Highlighting that making a positive impact doesn’t necessarily require founding an organization; volunteering and contributing to existing initiatives can also drive significant change. The value of educating young women on self-advocacy, specifically the importance of breast exams and understanding their health to prevent delayed diagnoses. Encouragement to use personal platforms and gifts, even something as simple as resharing a social media post, to support and amplify important causes for young women with breast cancer. Hosted by Betty Collins, CPA, and Director at Brady Ware and Company.