TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — “Fight for a Cure. Save the Tatas. Think Pink.“

All of these slogans were slapped on pink merchandise with a ribbon. But for millions of people across America, the significance is much greater.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Every year time is spent over these 31 days to educate, raise awareness, connect with others, and fundraise for this devastating disease.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, in 2024 more than 360,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer.

To make this statistic more jarring, black women are at a higher risk of developing and dying from breast cancer than their counterparts.

On today’s episode of Rooted in Progress, we are joined by breast cancer warrior Alicia Harris. Harris is the founder of the local non-profit organization Journi for Two— a movement spearheaded after she was diagnosed with the disease while four months pregnant!

Harris shares her brave journey and details her program’s mission.

Dr. Nia Imani Bailey is also a part of the conversation. She is a radiologist technician, as well as the founder of Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy.

Bailey emphasizes the importance of getting mammograms and what you can do at home if you detect something may not be right.