Black women have long been at the forefront of medical advancements, advocacy, and groundbreaking research, despite facing barriers in the healthcare field. In honor of Black History Month, we’re highlighting four remarkable Black women who
Black women have long been at the forefront of medical advancements, advocacy, and groundbreaking research, despite facing barriers in the healthcare field. In honor of Black History Month, we’re highlighting four remarkable Black women who have made history in medicine—particularly in the fight against breast cancer and Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC). Their contributions have paved the way for better treatments, increased awareness, and improved health outcomes for countless women.
Dr. Jane Cooke Wright (1919–2013) – The Pioneer of Chemotherapy & Clinical Trials

Dr. Jane Cooke Wright was a trailblazing oncologist whose research helped revolutionize chemotherapy as a standard treatment for cancer. At a time when cancer treatment relied heavily on surgery and radiation, Dr. Wright proved that chemotherapy could shrink tumors and improve survival rates.
One of her most groundbreaking contributions was her technique of testing chemotherapy drugs directly on a patient’s cancer cells, helping doctors develop more targeted treatments. This approach remains a foundation of modern oncology, including Triple Negative Breast Cancer treatments, where personalized therapies are crucial due to the lack of targeted hormonal treatments.
Dr. Wright was also a fierce advocate for diversity in clinical trials, ensuring that Black patients had access to the latest advancements in cancer treatment. Her work in this area set the stage for today’s researchers, who continue to push for more inclusive breast cancer research and equitable healthcare access.


Dr. Edith Mitchell – The Champion for Cancer Health Equity (1947-2024)

Dr. Edith Mitchell is a medical oncologist, researcher, and retired Brigadier General in the U.S. Air Force, known for her tireless advocacy in addressing racial disparities in cancer care. As a practicing physician, she has dedicated her career to researching how breast cancer disproportionately affects Black women and working toward solutions that improve outcomes.
She has contributed significantly to research on Triple Negative Breast Cancer, a disease that affects Black women at higher rates yet has fewer treatment options. Dr. Mitchell emphasizes the importance of genetic testing, early detection, and access to clinical trials, ensuring that Black women receive the best possible care.
Her advocacy extends beyond the lab—she works directly with health policymakers to push for healthcare policies that ensure better screening programs, treatment access, and research funding for underserved communities.


Dr. Lori Wilson – The TNBC Survivor & Surgical Oncologist

Dr. Lori Wilson is not only a renowned breast cancer surgeon but also a Triple Negative Breast Cancer survivor. As a healthcare provider, she had spent years treating women diagnosed with TNBC, but when she received her own diagnosis, she faced the battle from a deeply personal perspective.
Her experience as both a doctor and patient has given her a unique voice in advocating for patient empowerment and self-advocacy. She uses her platform to educate women—particularly Black women—on the importance of knowing their bodies, speaking up in medical settings, and understanding treatment options.
Dr. Wilson is a passionate advocate for breast cancer awareness and participation in clinical trials, working to ensure that Black women are included in the research that leads to better, more effective treatments.


Ricki Fairley – TNBC Survivor & Founder of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance

After being diagnosed with stage 3A Triple Negative Breast Cancer, Ricki Fairley was given a three-year prognosis—but she turned her diagnosis into a mission. She beat the odds and went on to become the founder of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, an organization dedicated to closing the racial gap in breast cancer mortality rates.
Through TOUCH, Ricki works to educate, support, and connect Black women with clinical trials that could save their lives. Black women are vastly underrepresented in clinical research, leading to fewer effective treatment options for the community. Her advocacy ensures that Black women know their options and have access to cutting-edge care.
Ricki is living proof that awareness, early detection, and clinical trials matter. She continues to lead the fight for equitable breast cancer research, education, and healthcare access for Black women.


Our Stories Matter
Breast cancer, especially Triple Negative Breast Cancer, is a serious health concern for Black women. Statistics show that:
✔️ Black women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with TNBC compared to white women.
✔️ Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer due to late-stage diagnoses and systemic healthcare disparities.
✔️ Black women are severely underrepresented in clinical trials, meaning new treatments may not be as effective for them.
The contributions of Dr. Jane Cooke Wright, Dr. Edith Mitchell, Dr. Lori Wilson, and Ricki Fairley have not only advanced cancer research but also empowered generations of Black women to fight for better healthcare, advocate for their well-being, and demand the best possible treatment options.
🎗 Prioritize Your Health – Schedule your mammograms, do regular self-exams, and know your risk factors.
🎗 Advocate for Yourself – If something feels off, push for answers. Seek second opinions and make sure your voice is heard.
🎗 Support Organizations That Fight for Black Women’s Health – Donate or volunteer with groups like TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance and the Erica J. Holloman Foundation.
🎗 Encourage Clinical Trial Participation – Research trials that could provide access to new, potentially life-saving treatments.
This Black History Month, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and brilliance of Black women in medicine and advocacy. These four women have left an indelible mark on the fight against breast cancer and healthcare inequality, paving the way for future breakthroughs.
Their work is a reminder that change happens when we speak up, take action, and support one another. Let’s continue their fight by staying informed, raising awareness, and ensuring that no Black woman faces breast cancer alone. 💕