Episode 74: Elana Silber, Executive Director of Sharsheret

B”H

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Did you know that 1 in 40 Jews of Ashkenazi descent carry a mutation of the BRCA gene, as opposed to 1 in 500 people of the general population? Did you know that men can also transfer the gene to their sons and daughters. That is, ovarian and breast cancer, while affecting women, primarily is not only a women’s issue. In fact, as my guest says, this is a Jewish community issue. You’re listening to Jewish Latin Princess. I’m Yael Trusch, your host. Today, I have the pleasure of talking to Elana Silber, Executive Director of Sharsheret.

Sharsheret is not-for-profit organization supporting young Jewish women and their families facing breast and ovarian cancer. You might recall that I had Stacy Middleman, survivor and author of the book Dear Cancer, Love Stacy back in Episode 30 talk to us about her experience battling cancer and about being a carrier of the BRCA gene mutation. Ladies, we’re just coming out of the High Holidays and we’re entering in the U.S. at least, breast cancer awareness month, the month of October, so this episode couldn’t be more timely. Perhaps this is a cause that you might like to dedicate your tzedakah to, perhaps you need to call either because you have been diagnosed G-d forbid, or your friend, family or community member is going through a cancer diagnosis.

Did you know that many people do not realize how much peer support from others who are undergoing the same thing or who have been through it, can help them? But Sharsheret not only offers tremendous private and confidential peer support through their links to other), but many other super practical services that can ease a person’s burden tremendously by helping them navigate through logistics, parenting and marital issues, and so much more.

Elana talks to us about how this wonderful organization was started and the various services it offers. What do do if you know someone who could benefit from Sharsheret’s services? Why is Sharsheret also bringing education to college campuses? Who should be doing genetic testing? What does that entail, practically speaking? And, why is this an important piece? How did Elana end up in the amazing position of directing this organization? Was this what she had in mind? Listen up ladies, this one is for each and everyone of us and please I beg you to share this content with as many women as you know. It is that important. Here’s Elana Silber.