NCCC Pacific Northwest Chapter
NCCC Pacific Northwest Chapter Leaders: Selena Rushton and Karena Horton
Selena’s Story
Since my diagnosis in 2016, I’ve beaten the odds and feel that research into why I have would be beneficial to save lives. Beyond cancer, I have an amazing series of life stories to share and this is just the beginning of a new life. I want to remind women that hope exists – never give up. Go for quality of life not quantity. Get your house in order today or leave it for someone else to define for you. It’s your choice. Your life. Trust your body and get annual exams. Get your children vaccinated – this disease does not have to take more lives.
Karena’s Story
I’m a healthcare management and finance professional with two decades of experience and charitable contributions. As a dedicated patient advocate adept at public and community relations, staff development, and project management, I’m compassionate about patient experience, service measurements, and process improvements. My eyes were opened to HPV and cervical cancer at age 36 when my annual exam revealed low-grade cervical dysplasia. A colposcopy was performed to reveal severe dysplasia in two quadrants. A LEEP procedure revealed carcinoma in situ. A cone biopsy was performed and revealed CIN-3. As my chosen option, I had a total hysterectomy with no further treatment because my diagnosis was caught early. Through self-education, I was shocked to learn that HPV is common in women, and that cervical cancer is preventable through vaccination, screening, and treatment options. I wish to help spread awareness by encouraging women to get regular Pap and HPV screenings, and to vaccinate their children—girls and boys—against HPV.
Spotlight on Dr. Vasquez Guzman
Dr. Vasquez Guzman is an Assistant Professor of Family Medicine at Oregon Health & Science University, with expertise in medical sociology, race, and ethnicity. Her interdisciplinary training with organizations like the RWJF Center for Health Policy and SHLI informs her focus on racial/ethnic health disparities. Dr. Guzman is particularly interested in curriculum development for medical students and researching health inequities among Native American and Latinx communities. Currently, she is analyzing structural factors impacting cervical cancer and Latina women's lived experiences. Outside work, she enjoys running, dancing, hiking, and cooking Oaxacan food with her family. Currently, through two grants, Dr. Guzman is analyzing the structural factors impacting cervical cancer and documenting Latina women’s unique lived experiences. Please contact Selena Rushton, our Chapter Leader, for more information regarding Dr. Guzman or visit https://www.primerlab.org/people
The Great Wheel in Seattle lit up in Teal for Cervical Health Awareness Month
