Katie talks to her surgeon and a fellow patient about life as a survivor.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to reflect, raise awareness about this disease, and, yes, even share a laugh through the tough moments. And that’s exactly what took place during a recent live recording of Next Question, where Katie Couric hosted a heartfelt and informative discussion on breast cancer at the Paley Center for Media in New York City.
Sponsored by women’s comfort footwear brand Easy Spirit, the event featured personal stories from breast cancer previvors, survivors, and advocates. Katie, a longtime cancer awareness advocate and breast cancer survivor herself, began by sharing her own experience, reflecting on her transition from advocate to patient after being diagnosed in 2022.
She was joined on stage by two inspiring women: Lisa Newman, MD, Katie’s breast surgeon, and Sharon Joseph, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Harlem, who’s currently undergoing treatment. Their conversation seamlessly blended personal stories with essential medical insights that every woman needs to hear. Joseph spoke about the emotional shock she felt after her diagnosis: Despite her mother’s history of breast cancer, she had always stayed up to date with her annual mammograms and even tested negative for the BRCA gene. Her experience underscored the importance of early screening, especially for women, like Joseph, with dense breast tissue — a key focus of the discussion.
Dr. Newman, a leading breast cancer specialist, highlighted the cultural challenges that still exist around discussing cancer, particularly within communities of color. She stressed the importance of breaking the silence and banishing the stigma surrounding breast cancer, both of which have historically delayed early detection and treatment. The conversation explored the emotional and mental impact of a diagnosis, the significance of a strong support system, and the hope that by sharing these stories, more women will feel empowered to take control of their health. Easy Spirit, deeply committed to this mission, felt passionate about facilitating this conversation, recognizing that movement and staying active are vital tools in both preventing and fighting cancer.
In addition to powering the conversation, Easy Spirit just launched its limited edition “Move for Pink” Maxine EMOVE Walking Shoe. For every pair sold in October, a portion of the proceeds supports Shoes For A Cure, a charitable organization that funds breast cancer research of Dr. Newman. The ultra-comfortable pink-and-white sneakers combine plush cushioning, maximum support, and shock absorption in a lightweight, orthotic-friendly design — making it a fitting symbol for every breast cancer survivor’s ongoing journey toward health and recovery.
Images courtesy of Easy Spirit.
