Every journey is different. Every voice deserves to be heard. Every choice matters.
Join us for a meaningful conversation centered on knowledge, empowerment, and hope.
H3’s 10th Annual Open Panel Discussion about Cancer
Navigating a Cancer Diagnosis:
Your Rights, Your Options, Your Path Forward
For 10 years, H3’s Annual Open Panel Discussion About Cancer has brought together healthcare professionals, cancer survivors, advocates, caregivers, and community members for meaningful conversations about cancer. The event is open to the community and aims to make reliable information and support accessible to those who may not otherwise have direct access to these resources.
Join H3 for an empowering and informative panel designed to guide individuals who have been newly diagnosed with breast cancer or any type of cancer.
This panel reflects H3’s mission: Health. Hope. Healing., providing not just information, but guidance and support when it matters most.
This conversation will focus on what to do immediately after diagnosis, including understanding your legal rights, medical options, and personal choices.
Focus of the Panel:
- What steps to take right after a cancer diagnosis
- Your rights as a patient (second opinions, treatment choices, medical leave, etc.)
- Understanding your treatment and reconstruction options
- Emotional and psychological support
- How to advocate for yourself in the healthcare system
The program will feature an expert panel moderated by H3 Founder and Director, Janinha Piazzetta, bringing together survivors, advocates, and leading voices to explore this year’s theme and share insights, hope, and meaningful perspectives.
Panelists include:
Alejandra T. Perez, MD: Breast Oncologist at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center in Miami and Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She is also Medical Director of the Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute in Plantation and triple board-certified in internal medicine, hematology, and oncology. Dr. Perez specializes in evidence-based breast cancer treatment and clinical trials, serving as a primary investigator on numerous studies focused on breast cancer prevention and treatment.
Charlotte Libov, Health Author, Speaker, and Breast Cancer Survivor – personal experience, resilience, and practical guidance, is the author of three books, including the award-winning The Cancer Survival Guide, and a collaborator on six additional health titles. A nationally recognized health speaker, she helps audiences better understand complex medical issues. Following her own breast cancer diagnosis, she combines professional expertise with firsthand experience to help others navigate the disease and advocate for their care.
Baruch Jacobs, MD, FACS Plastic Surgeon (with expertise in patient rights and medical law) – breast reconstruction options and timing, is a Miami-based plastic surgeon specializing in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. A University of Miami instructor and former Chief of Plastic Surgery at Miami Heart Institute, he is board-certified and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He also guides patients on reconstruction options, timing, and key legal considerations to support informed care decisions.
Ashley Valdes, Medical Professional & Patient Advocate – Patient rights, insurance authorizations, appeals, and patient advocacy, has spent 19 years working alongside Dr. Baruch Jacobs and Robin Jacobs at Miami Beach Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Center. She is known for her strong patient advocacy, compassionate leadership, and expertise in healthcare navigation, especially in insurance and patient rights. She is dedicated to helping women and breast reconstruction patients access care and overcome barriers. In 2025, she received a City of Miami Beach proclamation recognizing her impactful work in the breast cancer community.
The event has also received recognition from the City of Miami Beach, including proclamations presented by Commissioner Alex Fernandez honoring cancer caregivers, doctors, and breast cancer advocates for their dedication and essential role in supporting loved ones throughout their cancer journey.
Special Reception:
The evening will include a special reception featuring the beautiful sounds of Brazilian Bossa Nova, with a special performance by Brazilian singer Rose Max and her husband, renowned guitarist Ramatis. Their music will create a warm and festive atmosphere for an evening of celebration and connection.
Join us on Wednesday, October 21, from 5–8 PM at The Santorini by Georgios at Gale Hotel, 1690 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, for an evening of meaningful conversation, inspiration, and community connection.
Doors open at 5:00 PM, followed by a 5:30 PM welcome reception with networking and refreshments, before the panel discussion and special Miami Beach proclamations honoring members of our cancer care community.
City of Miami Beach Proclamations by Commissioner Alex Fernandez:
As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, our final segment will highlight Commissioner Alex Fernandez, who for the third consecutive year on behalf of the City of Miami Beach, will present proclamations to caregivers and doctors will honor caregivers and doctors who make a difference every day. This celebration highlights compassion, expertise, and community spirit.
We are seeking nominations for the following categories:
- Caregiver of the Year
Recognizing a family member or friend who has demonstrated extraordinary dedication, compassion, and support while caring for a loved one facing breast cancer. - Nurse of the Year
Honoring a nurse whose compassionate care, professionalism, and dedication have made a meaningful difference in the lives of breast cancer patients and their families. - Oncology Treatment Provider of the Year
Acknowledging a professional, such as a radiation therapist, chemotherapy administrator, physician assistant, or other treatment provider, who has played a vital role in delivering breast cancer care with skill, compassion, and empathy. - Advocate of the Year
Highlighting an individual who has passionately championed breast cancer awareness, education, access, or policy changes, making a lasting and positive impact in the community. - Spirit of Hope Award
Honoring a breast cancer survivor whose courage, positivity, resilience, and unwavering strength have inspired and brought hope to others throughout their cancer journey.
If you would like to nominate someone for one of these honors, please email Alex@miamibeachfl.gov with the nominee’s full name, contact information, role in cancer care, and a brief description of 500 words or less explaining why they deserve to be recognized.
Nominations will be accepted through Monday, October 19 at 5pm.
For more information about the event, email info@h3hope.org or call 305-531-2046.
* This event is proudly supported by Santorini by Georgios, Commissioner Alex Fernandez, and the City of Miami Beach.
