Dr. Regina Flippin
Thank you so much for visiting our site. Please allow me introduce myself. I am Dr. Regina Flippin, a podiatric physician and breast cancer survivor, practicing in Milwaukee, WI, Chicago, IL, and the United States Virgin Islands.
In September 2010, I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC). At the time, like so many other people, I thought all breast cancers were alike. Until my diagnosis, I had never heard of TNBC. Upon researching, I soon realized that I was in for the fight of my life.
TNBC lacks the three common proteins (estrogen, progesterone, and HER/2) found on most breast cancer tumors, making it more difficult to treat. It is more aggressive and has a higher recurrence rate. TNBC is 3 times more likely to affect black women than white or Hispanic women.
After surveying patients, friends and family, I realized 80% of the people I talked to had never heard of TNBC. It was at that time that it became my personal mission to try to raise awareness, fund education and provide greater access to quality care for women afflicted with breast cancer, specifically woman who lacked the necessary choices that I was afforded. In 2011, I founded my charity, Flippin to a Cure, a non-profit foundation to advance education and address the disparity of care to women in underserved and under-represented communities.
In 2012, Flippin to a Cure held their first event titled "A Triple Touch of Pink Ball," a Black Tie/Pink Carpet affair, held at the Pfister Hotel. A sellout, it raised $14,000. My dream of helping other breast cancer survivors became a reality. 100% of the proceeds raised were used directly to benefit breast cancer survivors, community programs and breast cancer initiatives in underserved and under-represented communities.
In 2013, I approached Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin to share my vision for greater access to quality care and education. They graciously accepted my challenge, collaborating on our second event "Knocking OUT Breast Cancer, Rockin’ the Runway Against Cancer," which was quickly a sellout. Fifty breast cancer survivors rocked the runway against cancer. Each model was treated to complementary manicures, pedicures, hair, make-up and a professional photoshoot. This was an event to remember! We were able to donate $22,000 to Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin, earmarked specifically for women of color in underserved and under-represented communities. Funding was used to implement and support programs in the inner city including empowerment groups for breast cancer survivors, clinical breast exams and other community engagement activities.
Flippin to a Cure® has plans to keep the momentum going so we can reach even more women with the message that we can "knock out" breast cancer with proper education and awareness. This year, we have again collaborated with Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin. On October 10, 2015, Flippin to a Cure® will host "Knocking Out Breast Cancer, 2015" with the Barbara Bates Foundation at the Milwaukee Art Museum. Fifty breast cancer survivors will model a special collection designed specifically for this event from Barbara Bates Designs. All proceeds will be used for education to address the health disparities in breast cancer care for African American and Hispanic women.
Please join me in "fighting with fashion" to help save women’s lives. With your help, we can ensure that more women have the chance to survive and together find a cure to eradicate breast cancer.
Sincerely,
Dr. Regina Flippin