Zebulon Woman’s Legacy Inspires Groundbreaking Partnership in Metastatic Breast Cancer Research
Rhonda Howell, a courageous woman from Zebulon, tragically lost her battle to the deadliest form of breast cancer but her invaluable legacy continues to drive innovative research efforts. Howell’s personal journey has ignited a “first of its kind” collaboration between researchers at Duke and UNC, aimed at finding new treatments for metastatic breast cancer.
In 2016, Howell received a stage two breast cancer diagnosis and underwent a double mastectomy and intense treatments. Unfortunately, just one year later, she received devastating news – the cancer had returned and spread to her pelvis and spine. Metastatic breast cancer, where cancer has spread beyond the breast, currently carries a mere 29% survival rate. Howell strongly believed that the lack of funding for research on stage 3 breast cancer played a significant role in these low survival rates.
To address this critical issue, Howell partnered with Triangle Komen’s Pam Kohl and her husband, Adam, to establish the “Metastatic Breast Cancer Collaborative Research Initiative.” This pioneering initiative fosters collaboration between Duke Cancer Institute and UNC Lineberger, with the goal of developing innovative treatments specifically targeting metastatic breast cancer and preventing recurrence. One of the potential breakthroughs being explored is personalized vaccines tailored to individual patients.
Howell’s advocacy for metastatic breast cancer research has made a lasting impact, and her legacy is revered in future grants and funding opportunities in the Triangle area. In addition to her advocacy work, Howell played a crucial role as a patient ambassador for Pfizer and co-chaired charity galas that collectively raised an impressive $375,000 for metastatic breast cancer research.
Tragically, Howell passed away on January 26th, 2022. However, her unwavering dedication to finding a cure for metastatic breast cancer lives on through the efforts of researchers and advocates. Adam, Howell’s grieving husband, expressed that research was the only hope for saving her life and the lives of countless others facing this devastating disease.
The loss of Rhonda Howell has certainly left a void, but her inspiring legacy continues to drive researchers and advocates forward in their relentless pursuit of a cure for metastatic breast cancer. Through their collaborative efforts, Duke and UNC researchers stand at the forefront of groundbreaking discoveries that have the potential to save lives and offer hope to those diagnosed with this challenging and aggressive form of breast cancer.
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