Bridgette Hempstead is a force of nature.
In 1996, Hempstead refused to take “no” for an answer after a Seattle-area doctor told her not to worry about getting a mammogram. She knew something was terribly wrong.
“When my doctor examined me, she mentioned that there was no family history of breast cancer, and since I was 34 years old and African-American I wouldn’t need a mammogram. She told me not to worry and to come back after 10 years. When I asked her again, this time in a very urgent tone, if I could get a mammogram, the tone in my voice and face told her that I was very serious, and to appease me she scheduled me for a mammogram,” Hempstead said.
Her suspicions were confirmed; the mammogram showed signs of abnormalities. The little knowledge she gained in her situation also gave her concerns.
“I was looking up everything I could to find out about breast cancer,” Hempstead said. For African American women, Hempstead said there was even less information available. “There were no resources for black women. What do they do? What are they talking about?”
Strong-willed and determined, Hempstead vowed to help others through a support group that addresses the difficulties and complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. She founded Cierra Sisters, a support group and cancer education group for women of color. The group meets monthly at the Rainier Beach Community Center for discussions and presentations from local clinicians, including oncologists from Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.
“Bridgette is a nurturer. She is a mother to her flock. And she’s looking out for the best interest for everyone,” says Dr. Julie Gralow, SCCA medical oncologist, and Bridgette’s physician at the SCCA Breast Cancer Specialty Clinic.
Hempstead, who is now living with metastatic breast cancer, which is currently thought to be incurable, has been told that she is “NED,” meaning no evidence of disease.
WATCH: Bridgette Shares Her Breast Cancer Story
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