Written by NBCC Michigan Advocate Tammy Myers
It’s taken me a few weeks to recover from one of the most intense—and unforgettable—experiences of my advocacy journey thus far. Three weeks ago, I had the honor of being selected to attend the National Breast Cancer Coalition’s Project LEAD Institute in gorgeous La Jolla, California. Project LEAD is NBCC’s most intensive program, training advocates in the science behind breast cancer research and policy so that our voices are not only heard but carry more power.
The setting was a dream—the ocean breeze, perfect weather, and a resort that took my breath away. But the real magic happened inside those walls.
For six (very long!) days, I dove headfirst into some of the most rigorous learning I’ve ever done—taught by some of the brightest minds in breast cancer research.
People like Dr. Stephanie L. Goff from the National Cancer Institute at NIH, a surgical oncologist whose groundbreaking work in immunotherapy made history when she and her colleagues cured Judy Perkins—the first metastatic breast cancer patient to be cured—using a revolutionary treatment known as adoptive cell therapy.
Or Dr. Steven Goodman from Stanford, who is transforming how the research world approaches reproducibility and rigor so treatments are backed by the strongest possible evidence.
And Dr. Jessica Clague DeHart, a molecular cancer epidemiologist whose work connects lifestyle, prevention, and survivorship in such meaningful ways.
One of my favorite parts was being able to talk candidly with these researchers—not just hearing their science but feeling their passion for saving lives.
I won’t lie—there were definitely moments I felt intimidated, sitting among such brilliant doctors, scientists, and veteran advocates, many moments. But more than anything, I felt inspired and very motivated.
The best part is that we were all united in one mission: our desire to see an end to breast cancer, something that forged a bond that will connect us for life. That shared purpose turned the 12-hour days of lectures, group work, and studying from sunup to sundown into something not just bearable, but energizing and awe-inspiring.
I came home with far more than I expected—a full heart, a much deeper scientific knowledge, and the accreditations to serve on Department of Defense research grant panels and participate in peer reviews for clinical trials. Most importantly, I can now walk into meetings on Capitol Hill with a stronger understanding of the science behind the policies and funding we fight for with NBCC.
Project LEAD wasn’t just a training. It was a reminder that advocacy isn’t only about speaking up—it’s about learning so we can speak up more powerfully. And when you combine that knowledge with the passion that filled those rooms? There’s nothing we can’t do.
I cannot wait to put this training into action when I return to Capitol Hill in 2026.
I’m also looking forward to getting more involved with the National Breast Cancer Coalition—both here in Michigan and in Washington, D.C. It feels incredible to have found an organization so aligned with my values and the mission I want to dedicate my advocacy and philanthropic efforts toward.
Someday we will see an end to breast cancer, and when that day comes, I want to know that I did everything I could to help—for all of us.
Join advocates like Tammy and become an empowered advocate. Learn more and apply for Project LEAD!
