Today we’d like to introduce you to Colletta Brabham-Orr
Hi Colletta, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Colletta Brabham-Orr, a devoted advocate for women’s health, has dedicated her career to fighting breast and ovarian cancer—a cause that holds deep personal significance for her. A native of South Carolina, Colletta experienced profound loss when her maternal grandmother and great-grandmother succumbed to these diseases. These heartbreaking events reshaped her family’s dynamic and ignited her passion for cancer research. After earning her undergraduate degree in biology from Voorhees College, she pursued advanced studies at Georgetown University School of Medicine, where she honed her expertise in cancer biology. Colletta’s research has focused on the genetic and environmental factors contributing to cancer, and she has shared her findings at national conferences, reinforcing the urgency of early diagnosis and treatment for affected women. Currently serving as a Scientific Writer at Sigma-Aldridge, Colletta continues to advocate for awareness and education, empowering women to take charge of their breast and ovarian health and reduce the impact of these life-altering diseases.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Throughout my journey, I confronted significant challenges that shaped my aspirations in the field of research science. Growing up in South Carolina, I lacked exposure to medical professionals and research scientists who resembled me, which made it difficult to envision a future in this domain. However, my time at Voorhees University, an esteemed HBCU, proved transformative. Under the guidance of a remarkable mentor, I gained the confidence and direction I needed to pursue a career in research science. My involvement in undergraduate scientific research conferences further solidified my commitment to this path, equipping me with the skills and experiences necessary to succeed in a competitive field. The support I received during this pivotal period was invaluable and continues to inspire me as I move forward in my career.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Colletta Orr & Associates?
Colletta Orr & Associates is dedicated to advocating for those impacted by breast and ovarian cancers, offering vital preventive resources and survivor support through our specialized programs. We focus on educating and empowering all communities affected by these illnesses, ensuring that women receive the care and knowledge necessary to initiate crucial discussions with their healthcare providers. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to normalizing conversations about breast and ovarian health, making essential information accessible and engaging. We take immense pride in our signature events, like the Pink & Teal Experience, which features heartfelt talks from survivors and experts, aimed at inspiring and informing attendees. Our other gatherings, such as The Pink Brunch and Cupcakes & Conversations, not only celebrate awareness but also foster community spirit and connections among breast cancer fighters, survivors, and caregivers. Join us as we work together to raise awareness and support those on this journey!
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Colletta Orr & Associates learned some invaluable lessons that transformed our approach to supporting women affected by breast and ovarian cancers. We realized how critical it is to remain connected with our community, even when in-person gatherings were out of the question. Our virtual support groups became a lifeline, allowing women to share their experiences, find comfort, and build relationships from the safety of their homes. We’ve also recognized the importance of accessible education; with workshops moving online, we’ve been able to reach even more individuals, helping them discuss their health openly with healthcare providers. Let’s keep the conversation going—talking about breast and ovarian health should be as normal as chatting about the weather!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.CollettaOrr.com
- Instagram: @CollettaOrr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064614585849
- Twitter: @collettaorr
