When I suggested this series to our CEO/Co-Founder, Marissa, I wanted to create space for women of color to share their stories—in their own words, on their own terms. We are more than statistics. More than characters on TV. For the Breast of Us launched the In Purpose, On Purpose scholarship to support women of color pursuing their goals while navigating breast cancer. It’s about showing up for your purpose—even in the face of adversity.

Our Baddie x 2 series captures intimate conversations between two Baddies talking about previvorship, diagnosis, healing, and everything in between. In our 18th installment, I spoke with the incredible Evette Yanez.

Hey Sis! How did you hear about FTBOU?
Social media.

How has FTBOU supported you?
It gave me a platform to share my story about my prophylactic mastectomy. Talking to other women helped me reframe how I view my body and the decision I made.

What was your previvor experience like?
I had to fight to get regular screenings. Fear held me back. My partner at the time focused on my appearance, not my health. After losing my sister, I prioritized healing before moving forward. I had a mastopexy in August 2023 and a mastectomy on June 3, 2024, at 46 years old.

Did you have a family history of breast cancer?
Yes—my mom, sister, and both grandmothers had it. My sister was diagnosed at 43. I witnessed their journeys and wanted to make a proactive choice for myself and my children.

Did you face challenges accessing care?
Absolutely. One geneticist refused to test me because I hadn’t been diagnosed. He mansplained genetics until I went back to my PCP—a woman of color—who referred me to someone else. You must be your own advocate.

What was your experience with surgery?
The physical change was minor, but I’ve lost sensation in one nipple and may not regain it. Emotionally, it was tough. I had to learn to ask for help and give myself grace when I couldn’t do everyday things.

What’s one thing you wish you’d known beforehand?
That the emotional healing would be harder than the physical. I struggled with depression and didn’t open up for a long time. Once I did, it made a huge difference.

What advice would you give to someone supporting a previvor?
Listen more than you speak. Show up. Don’t wait to be asked—just do. Bring the food. Do the laundry. Be there.

How do you deal with insensitive comments?
Honestly, most of it was internal. My insecurity was louder than anyone else’s words.

What’s been your biggest challenge post-surgery?
Not moving like I used to. Refill appointments add pressure and limit my activity. Asking for help has gotten easier.

Have you tried complementary therapies?
Yes! I love massages, walking, yoga, journaling, and prayer. I even walked two miles recently.

Tell us about your support system.
My partner Tom, my kids Chloe and Dallas, my parents Erlinda and Augie, my sister Eva, my cousins, my hairstylist Taitiana, and work friends Carnesha and Monica. I’ve been blessed.

What effect did being a previvor have on your dating life?
I’m in a loving, supportive relationship of three years. Tom sees and loves the real me.

What parts of the old you remain?
My confidence. My love for family. My strength and sensitivity. I’m a clinical psychologist overseeing 50 staff—I’m a boss!

What’s new about you that the old you didn’t have?
Vulnerability. Willingness to ask for help. Saying “No.” Setting boundaries. Trying new things.

Why is cultural outreach important to you?
So many women in my family were affected. I have access and privilege that I refuse to gatekeep. Women deserve to know they have options and a voice. And just because someone is a doctor doesn’t mean they’re always right—get second opinions.

If you wrote a blog tomorrow, what would the title be?
The Power Within Me to Heal Myself.

What was your theme song during treatment?
80s music—especially Blondie—and “Sissy’s Song,” which reminds me of my sister.

Favorite memory during your journey?
Seeing my kids after surgery. My son was so relieved I was okay.

Dream trip?
A tour of Italy with my kids—food, museums, culture!

What’s something the world should know about you—beyond breast cancer?
Don’t judge a book by its color. I’m strong, independent, and sensitive. I’m a whole story.

How can readers connect with you?
Instagram: @evettepsyd

After our conversation, Evette told me how cathartic it felt—especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Previvor Day (October 2nd). Since then, she’s had her reconstruction surgery and has been sharing her story to help others take proactive steps.

Evette, thank you for your vulnerability and strength. Keep planting those seeds of knowledge and inspiration. The world is lucky to have you in it.