Ricki Fairley thought she would never live to see her youngest daughter graduate. But she made it to that 2014 commencement and is still very much alive—and saving lives, as well. About a decade ago, Fairley was diagnosed with a lethal form of breast cancer that is particularly common among Black women. Yet they tend to be excluded from experimental drug trials that could improve their chances of survival. Fairley put her seasoned marketing and public relations skills to work, educating drug makers and helping her wide network of Black "breasties" combat the disease. In addition to sharing her inspiring story, Fairley reflects on the golden anniversary of Black Alumni at Dartmouth Association, which was founded, among others, by her late father, Richard Fairley, Class of 1955.
Ricki Fairley thought she would never live to see her youngest daughter graduate. But she made it to that 2014 commencement and is still very much alive—and saving lives, as well. About a decade ago, Fairley was diagnosed with a lethal form of breast cancer that is particularly common among Black women. Yet they tend to be excluded from experimental drug trials that could improve their chances of survival. Fairley put her seasoned marketing and public relations skills to work, educating drug makers and helping her wide network of Black "breasties" combat the disease. In addition to sharing her inspiring story, Fairley reflects on the golden anniversary of Black Alumni at Dartmouth Association, which was founded, among others, by her late father, Richard Fairley, Class of 1955.