With a mission to elevate the diverse voices and perspectives of the metastatic breast cancer (MBC) community, Susan G. Komen® launched the MBC Steering Committee. The committee is comprised solely of people living with MBC and seeks to ensure the unique needs of the MBC community are integrated across Komen’s programs and initiatives.
“Komen has a sense of urgency to address MBC, and while we’ve come a long way, we have so much more to do to ensure that no one dies from this disease. MBC is responsible for most of the nearly 44,000 deaths expected from breast cancer in the U.S. this year alone. We are committed to changing this unacceptable reality,” Natasha Mmeje, Komen’s Director of Community Education and Outreach, said.
“We want to continue to invest in more research to conquer metastatic and aggressive breast cancer and eliminate breast cancer disparities, support those living with MBC, educate and increase awareness about MBC and advocate for patient protections and access to care for everyone.”
The committee now has 12 people living with MBC currently serving. The committee aims to:
- Represent the broad community of those impacted by MBC, keeping Komen updated on the issues and needs most important to the MBC community.
- Provide input to help guide Komen’s MBC-focused program strategy related to research, patient care services and public policy advocacy.
- Serve as spokespersons and advocates for Komen by participating in media events, fundraising and educational programs.
- Serve as ambassadors to the MBC community by leveraging personal networks and local communities to share information about Komen programs, services and campaigns.
- Help Komen build relationships and engage with other MBC advocates, thought leaders and organizations representing the diversity of the MBC community.
Meet the Committee Members
Beth Guendjoian
At the age of 38, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. At the time, my daughters were just 10 and 12 years old. As any parent can imagine, the news was devastating. I pursued an aggressive treatment plan—undergoing a double mastectomy within a week of discovering the lump, followed by chemotherapy and radiation.
Despite following all recommended protocols, my cancer progressed from stage II to stage IV within three months. While still undergoing treatment, I learned that the disease had metastasized to my bones—beginning at the top of my spine and spreading through my hips and pelvis. I was facing a very serious prognosis.
Around that time, I was offered the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial for Herceptin.
Today—27 years later—I am deeply grateful to be here to share my story. That clinical trial, and the power of medical research, gave me the precious time to watch my daughters grow up, graduate high school and college, and begin families of their own. This year, I was blessed to become a Yaya. Life is full, and every moment of the past 27 years has been a gift.
My husband and I are forever grateful for the time we’ve had together. I want every woman and man facing a breast cancer diagnosis to have the same chance I did.
I remain committed to giving back and sharing my experience in the hope that it will help others. Research saves lives. I truly believe that, together, we can make a lasting difference.
Let’s keep counting UP!
Julia Hughes
For over nine years, Julia Hughes has bravely faced the challenges of living with Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC), starting from her diagnosis in 2015. With a deep personal commitment to breast cancer advocacy, she possesses exceptional skills in communication, organization, and fostering community support. At Komen, she plays a pivotal role in addressing the needs of the MBC community, ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives are heard.
Despite the unexpected Stage 2 diagnosis in February 2015 and the grim prognosis later that June, with doctors foreseeing only six months to live, Julia’s unwavering faith has propelled her through the tumultuous journey of treatments and surgeries. Enduring over 55 IV chemotherapies, brain surgery, double hip surgery, and ongoing oral medications, her resilience stands as a testament to the strength she derives from her faith.
Her dedication extends beyond personal battles; Julia actively fundraises for Komen Hawai’i, leading top-ranking teams in generating vital funds since 2015. As a sought-after speaker, she has graced the stages of the Susan G. Komen Pink Tie Ball in 2019, 2023, and 2024, inspiring audiences with her story of resilience. Recognized for her remarkable advocacy, she received the “More Than Pink” Inspirational Award in Hawaii and was featured prominently in Generations Magazine (including the cover), raising awareness of breast cancer across all age groups.
In 2023, Julia’s passion for advocacy reached new heights as she successfully campaigned for Honolulu’s mayor to proclaim October 13 as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. Her influence continues to grow as she serves on the inaugural Metastatic Breast Cancer Committee since 2022, eagerly anticipating further opportunities for impactful service.
In tandem with her official advocacy responsibilities, Julia aims to bolster her presence on social media, delve into book writing, and forge partnerships with local charitable organizations.
Outside her advocacy work, Julia finds immense joy in her roles as a wife of over 14 years, a mother to two young men in their early twenties, and a devoted pet parent. She cherishes precious moments with her loved ones, indulges in creative crafts, travels to visit family, finds fulfillment in exercise classes and outdoor adventures, enjoys mini-vacays, delights in culinary experiences, finds solace in church and bible time, immerses herself in reading, and embraces every aspect of life with gratitude and enthusiasm. Guided by her faith, her mission is to live each day according to God’s plan, thriving in every moment.
Pam Kohl
Pam Kohl was diagnosed with stage 1 ER+ breast cancer in 2009. In October 2016, she was diagnosed with breast cancer again and on Jan. 31, 2017, she was diagnosed with MBC. A North Carolina native, Pam has more than 40 years of experience working in government and non-profit management. She served as Executive Director of Komen North Carolina Triangle to the Coast for eight years. In that role, Pam was a passionate spokesperson and advocate for equitable breast cancer support services in eastern N.C. and the vital need for breast cancer research. She helped raise millions of dollars in support of those efforts. Pam recently retired from her role with Komen as Development Director of the newly created Metastatic Breast Cancer Collaborative Research Initiative.
Judy Greiman
With nearly 30 years of advocacy experience, Judy has been a staunch supporter of funding for research and student aid. She recently retired from helping to run a major research university with an academic medical center where she also ran all government and community relations. She continues to provide strategic guidance for various higher education leaders. She sits on the boards of The Jazz Loft, Inc. and the New York Climate Exchange and on the national advisory committee of Legend Labs. She was a 24/25 Hear My Voice Advocate for Living Beyond Breast Cancer and is a Patient Advocate Leader for FORCE. She will be attending the Project LEAD Institute in July 2025. She has degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and DePaul University College of Law and completed a certificate in Crisis Leadership in Higher Education given by the Harvard Kennedy School of Executive Education.
Judy received a de novo metastatic breast cancer diagnosis in June 2023. Since being diagnosed, she has transferred her professional advocacy skills to supporting breast cancer legislation on behalf of various organizations and working with her healthcare system to expand integrative health options for those living with cancer and the side effects of life saving medication. Judy has chosen to live a big life filled with joy. She loves spending time with her family and friends, kayaking, walking in the woods, listening to music, cooking, and exploring new places. She is married and has two wonderful adult children.
Michelle Anderson Benjamin
Michelle Anderson-Benjamin is a wife and mother of two from NYC. At the age 36 during the pandemic, Michelle was diagnosed with Stage-1 Triple Negative Breast Cancer and unfortunately at the age of 38 in 2022 her cancer returned and is now Stage IV. She was inspired to turn her pain into her purpose and started The Fearless Warrior Project/Organization in 2021. As a Certified Mental Health Coach and Death Doula her mission is to help individuals address and overcome their emotional, mental traumas and embrace their fears. She is empowering others to advocate for themselves and educates other cancer warriors their rights, clinical trials options and resources.
She is a voice for the voiceless and creating a legacy for her children is her biggest motivation.
Michelle is Superwoman with a Pink Cape!
Cyndi Johnson
Cyndi grew up in northern Iowa with an amazing family. After college and teaching in Texas then central Minnesota, she and her husband made their home in rural, southern Minnesota where she was a high school English teacher for 26 years. Cyndi and Brad have four boys and a beautiful Great Pyrenees dog. Each of the boys are adulting and living successful, happy lives and fill her mom’s heart with pride. Her husband continues to teach and coach at the same high school where she was employed. They enjoy being a part of a close community with caring people. Cyndi enjoys boating, walks with her dog, biking, reading and book clubs, vacations, and time with friends and family.
Cyndi received a de novo metastatic diagnosis in March 2018. A year later, she made the difficult decision to retire early and concentrate on her health and treatments plus enjoy more time with her family. Cyndi is driven by a passion and a sense of urgency to address MBC and the side effects of long-term treatments. She has been active with Tackle Cancer fundraising, Relay for Life, metastatic cancer support groups, and mentoring. She is hoping to make a positive impact and inspire others while serving on the Susan G. Komen MBC Steering Committee.
Phyllis Esposito
Dr. Phyllis Esposito was first diagnosed with Stage IIA bilateral breast cancer in June 2020. After intensive treatment, including chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy, she showed no signs of cancer. As a Black woman, Phyllis chose to participate in a clinical study during her breast cancer treatment to highlight the importance of such studies and advocate for her community. In November 2023, she was diagnosed with MSBC.
Dr. Esposito’s experience demonstrates the challenges of cancer treatment while showcasing her commitment to advocacy. Even during her own health battles, she champions representation and equity in healthcare. This aligns with her professional life as a diversity leader, where she creates and facilitates diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives for students, leadership, staff, and faculty.
Dr. Esposito holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master of Integrated Humanities and Education from Rockhurst University, as well as a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Kansas. Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, she is a mother of three, a grandmother, and currently resides in Oregon with her husband and dog, Gromit.
Lisa Mannina
In January 2020, at the age of 39, I received a diagnosis of Stage I invasive ductal carcinoma (ER/PR+, HER2-) during my wife’s pregnancy with our first child. I underwent a double mastectomy and subsequently entered remission with no evidence of disease. Our son was born in May, and as a pilot, I was thankful to return to flying in August after a period of being grounded during treatment.
In May 2024, I discovered that the cancer had metastasized to my bones, resulting in a diagnosis of Stage IV metastatic breast cancer. I faced yet another grounding, potentially on a permanent basis. At that time, my wife was pregnant with our second child, and our second son was born in June.
Throughout my journey with this illness, I have realized that my purpose lies in assisting others. The emotional challenges associated with living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) have influenced my determination to take control of what I can—both mentally and physically—and to leverage my voice and experiences to support those navigating similar circumstances. I am honored to serve as a committee member for the Metastatic Breast Cancer Steering Committee and am committed to uplifting and empowering the MBC community.
Lexy Vudrag
Lexy Vudrag lives in the suburbs of Phoenix Arizona with her husband Nick and together they have two grown daughters, Kristi and Karla. Lexy has 40 years of experience as a paralegal and director in real estate management and development. She and her husband are 20-year franchisees of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory; they own and operate the store located in Uptown Sedona, Arizona. Lexy is also a member of the Franchise Advisory Council for Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc.
Lexy was diagnosed with de novo metastatic breast cancer in 2022. Shortly after finishing chemotherapy she experienced pathological fractures in her pelvis due to the cancer treatments weakening bones. These fractures made it nearly impossible to walk without the use of walking aids. At the direction of her incredible medical team she began a fitness regiment, incorporated changes to lifestyle and worked hard on becoming physically fit. She managed to recover from the fractures and is now active and thriving.
Lexy is passionate about helping the MBC patient community sort through the emotions, fear and chaos that ensues when diagnosed with metastatic disease. She aims to inspire hope and help others find the key to unlocking their own best quality of life. In conjunction with the treatments and therapies available today and those on the horizon, Lexy believes that with great determination it is possible to thrive with MBC.
Linda Lydia
A native of Tennessee, Mrs. Lydia is a graduate of Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN, where she majored in Sociology. She worked for twelve years as a probation officer supervisor in Dallas County before joining the U.S. Peace Corp in Sierra Leone, West Africa. In Africa she taught swamp rice production and English.
Linda Lydia has a long and involved history with the NAACP dating back to the turbulent sixties as an active member of the TN State University College Chapter. Since these days she has served as the chartering advisor for the Grand Prairie NAACP, Los Angeles CA. NAACP ACT-SO chair and youth advisor, Dallas NAACP ACT-SO and Youth advisor, TX State NAACP Youth Advisor, State ACT-SO, and Secretary of the TX State NAACP and on the national level, as the Region VI Representative to the National Youth Work Committee.
Mrs. Lydia volunteers with numerous community organizations including coordinating volunteers for breast cancer build (a yearly habitat home built by breast cancer survivors), Komen Race for the Cure Advocacy Chair, Komen AA HEI Cancer Coalition, Southwest Transplant Alliance, League of Women Voters, American Red Cross, Methodist Breadbasket, and others. Linda is proud of her mission work with Feed My Starving Children, having done missionary trips to South Africa, Haiti, and Cuba. She serves on the speaker bureau of FMSC.
In 2020, Linda founded the Pink Diamonds Survivors of Cancer, Inc. to raise funds and awareness of people experiencing cancer who are uninsured and underinsured. This group has been major fundraiser for Komen, Sisters Network and Celebrating Life. Mrs. Lydia is a 28 year metastatic breast cancer survivor.
Mrs. Lydia serves on numerous boards and commissions and is an active member of Concord Church Dallas.
Megan Hanvey
Megan Hanvey is a positive, fun-loving, and compassionate woman who finds purpose in life by giving to others and to her family. She is married to a great man and is the mother of two amazing boys. Driven by her passion for helping others, she worked as an Occupational Therapist with children in San Diego for nearly 25 years. After being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in April of 2023, she retired to focus her time on being with those she loves as well as continuing to give back to her community. Megan has become involved as a board member with Camp Kesem, an organization that supports children who have or had a parent with cancer. She participated in the 3-Day Breast Cancer Walk in honor of her sister, mother and grandmother who have all since passed away from cancer. More recently, Megan became involved with Susan G. Komen as a speaker and team leader with the More Pink Walk. She is honored to be a part of this Metastatic Breast Cancer Steering Committee and looks forward to making a difference in the lives of those living with this disease.
Charmaine Tyson
Charmaine Tyson is a two-time breast cancer survivor and a dedicated advocate for breast cancer awareness and support. With resilience and passion, she has turned her personal journey into a source of inspiration for others facing similar challenges. Charmaine currently serves as the Operations Manager at Carolina Breast Friends, where she plays a vital role in providing resources, support, and community for those affected by breast cancer. Her leadership and commitment continue to make a significant impact in the lives of many.
