H3’s 8th Annual Open Panel Discussion about Cancer:
Topic: "The Direction of Cancer Care: Immunotherapy, Clinical Trials, and Vaccines.”
Our first three panel discussions explored the rise in cancer diagnoses, the importance of awareness and education on prevention, access to conventional and alternative treatments, and the challenges faced within the medical system. They focused on personal responsibility, encapsulated by the phrase “It begins with me.”
The fourth and fifth discussions examined the impact of COVID-19 on cancer diagnosis and treatment access, revealing how the pandemic has affected every aspect of life, including the health of cancer survivors, leading to issues like diabetes, obesity, and mental illness.
In 2022, our sixth event centered on genetic testing as a tool for diagnosing, treating, and potentially preventing breast cancer, with a focus on genetic markers for specific racial and ethnic groups and the need to adjust treatment protocols for BRCA-positive patients.
The seventh discussion highlighted the disparities in breast cancer care for Black women, underscoring the need for culturally competent healthcare, better communication, increased awareness, and more research within Black communities.
This year’s discussion aims to explore advancements in cancer care, such as immunotherapy, clinical trials, and vaccines, to promote greater awareness, participation, and equitable access to cutting-edge treatments. The topic of the 2024 panel discussion is:
The Direction of Cancer Care: Immunotherapy, Clinical Trials, and Vaccines.
H3’s Founder and Director, Janinha Piazzetta, is moderating the discussion panel. Each participant will address the question above from their unique perspective. Towards the end, the audience will have an opportunity to participate with questions.
This event will take place on Tuesday, October 15, from 5-8pm at
The Gallery, Betsy Hotel South Beach, 1433 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Our 2024 Panelists:
Special guest:
Judy Perkins, whose unique experience in immunotherapy treatment led her to the cure. In December 2015, Judy Perkins became the first metastatic breast cancer patient to be declared disease-free following immunotherapy with Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TILs). When her groundbreaking results were published in Nature in June 2018, oncologists and patients everywhere gained new hope in the battle against breast cancer. As a “Breast Cancer Veteran,” Judy dedicates her time and platform to educating others, driven by a sense of karmic duty, as her treatment was funded by taxpayer dollars at the National Institute of Health (NIH). She is also active with the National Breast Cancer Coalition, determined to share her story to support and sustain organizations fighting the disease.
Our Medical Team:
Alejandra T. Perez, MD: Breast Oncologist at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Miami, Associate Professor of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine & University of Miami Medical Director of the Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute in Plantation. Dr. Perez is a triple board-certified internal medicine, hematology, and oncology associate professor. She practices an evidence-based approach to treatment and participates in clinical trials that may deliver access to emerging technologies and treatments more efficacious than those currently available. She has been a primary investigator on numerous clinical trials that address the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.
Talia Donenberg is a board-certified genetic counselor in Florida with 25 years of experience in cancer genetics. She co-founded the first multidisciplinary hereditary cancer program at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in 2000 and remains actively involved in providing genetic counseling, testing, and support to patients and families. Talia is also dedicated to educating lay and professional audiences on genetic and genomic testing, cancer risk, early detection, risk reduction, and precision treatments, empowering patients through knowledge. Fluent in English and Spanish, she values working with a diverse demographic and feels honored to support patients during challenging times.
Simonnette (Simmy) Lucas, MPH, CIP, is the Director of the Office of Research Integrity at Miami Cancer Institute (MCI). Simmy oversees the following areas within Oncology Research at MCI: Human Subject Research Protection Program (HRPP), Research Compliance Program, and Quality and Education at Miami Cancer Institute. Simmy is from Jamaica, and she started her career as an Institutional Review Board (IRB) Administrator in 2004. She has 19 years of experience in research and is a champion for minorities participating in research – especially cancer research. She maintains that representation is needed across all ethnicities when it relates to research so that the drugs can be effective across all people. This cannot be accomplished if all groups do not participate in research.
As October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we will also present the Cancer Hero Awards by Vice Mayor Alex Fernandez. These awards celebrate unsung heroes who have profoundly impacted the lives of breast cancer patients but often go unrecognized.
We are seeking nominations for the following categories:
- Caretaker of the Year
Recognizing a family member or friend who has shown extraordinary dedication and support in caring for a loved one battling breast cancer. - Nurse of the Year
Honoring a nurse whose compassionate care, dedication, and professionalism have significantly impacted breast cancer patients’ lives. - Oncology Treatment Provider of the Year
Acknowledging a professional (e.g., radiation therapist, chemotherapy administrator, or physician’s assistant) who has played a crucial role in delivering breast cancer treatment with skill and empathy. - Advocate of the Year
Highlighting an individual who has passionately advocated for breast cancer awareness, education, or policy changes, driving positive impacts within the community. - Spirit of Hope Award
Awarding a survivor who has inspired others through their courage, positivity, and unwavering strength in their fight against breast cancer.
If you know someone deserving of recognition, please email [email protected] with the nominee’s full name, contact information, role in cancer care, and a brief description (500 words or less) of why they should be honored. Nominations are open until September 27, 2024.
For more information about the event, email [email protected] or call 305-531-2046.
*This event is supported by Betsy Hotel South Beach in partnership with Sharsheret (the Jewish Breast & Ovarian Cancer Community), Vice Mayor Alex Fernandez, the City of Miami Beach, UHealth – University of Miami Health System, Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute, and the Ocean Drive Association.
###