Turning pain into purpose: Dedmon draws inspiration from family's cancer journey

Doctoral student Ashley Dedmon, MPH, CHES ®, spent her late teenage years as a caregiver to both parents diagnosed with cancer and found her passion in the process.

Dedmon's passion for public health stems from her personal experiences as a caregiver. After losing her mother to metastatic breast cancer and witnessing her father's survival of prostate cancer, she committed her life to cancer research and advocacy. Her efforts have centered on health equity, cancer care, and the study of genetics to support those affected by cancer, especially in under-supported communities.

"My defining moment to pursue cancer research and a doctoral degree in public health was certainly watching my mom fight cancer as she pursued her advanced degrees as well," said Dedmon. "She was fighting for her life as she pursued her goals. So, when I think back to that moment while I was raising my daughters and being in school, I know because of her example, I can do it too."

Dedmon's doctoral pursuit focuses on how chronic stress and social determinants influence Black women's susceptibility to breast cancer.

"I chose UTHealth Houston School of Public Health because of its strong emphasis on research, community engagement, and health equity. The institution's commitment to addressing pressing public health issues, particularly in marginalized communities, aligns perfectly with my professional goals and personal values," says Dedmon. "Additionally, the opportunity to work with renowned faculty members and access to cutting-edge research resources made the school an ideal choice for my doctoral studies."

Marlyn Allicock, MPH, PhD, and associate professor of health promotion and behavioral sciences, serves as Dedmon's academic advisor.

"Ashley brings a wealth of experience doing community-engaged work in breast cancer advocacy. One of the lenses she sees the world through is that of a pre-vivor with lived experience," says Allicock. "Combined with the stellar academic preparation she is receiving from the school; it will allow her to contribute to public health solutions to improve cancer survivorship."

In 2016, Dedmon decided to undergo a double mastectomy after learning she was at high risk for developing breast cancer. Her experience was the inspiration for two children's books, The Big Family Trip: Helping Families to Share Their Family Health History and The Big Discovery: Assisting Families Through a Breast Cancer Diagnosis that provide families facing cancer diagnoses with a valuable resource to help communicate and navigate conversations about cancer with children. Dedmon and her husband are parents to two daughters.

Dedmon's schedule keeps her busy, but she still finds time to serve as vice president of Mission Delivery at Living Beyond Breast Cancer. She plays a vital role in providing trusted information and resources to individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis.

Recently, Dedmon traveled to Queensland, Australia, where she presented at the Frazer Institute-University of Queensland for the Public Breast Cancer Research Forum 2024. Her presentation, Educate, Equip Empower, focused on how researchers, patient advocates, and clinicians can work together to improve breast cancer outcomes.  

Through her advocacy, research, and dedication, she continues to be a powerful voice for marginalized populations battling breast cancer, striving to improve awareness, access, and support for those affected by the disease.

Dedmon says her advice to other students interested in public health is simple. "Stay true to your mission and use the tools and opportunities to create lasting, meaningful change. Your journey may be challenging, but it will be deeply rewarding."