The Basser Young Leadership Council (YLC) brings together young adults affected by a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation who are passionate about advancing BRCA-related research, care and education. Founded in 2016, the YLC provides opportunities to connect with others, learn about advances in BRCA research and care, advocate for the BRCA community, and support the mission of the Basser Center for BRCA.
The YLC also supports the next generation of BRCA research through its annual Young Investigator Award and raises awareness of programs and initiatives that serve people and families affected by hereditary cancer risk.
Who Is the Young Leadership Council For?
The Basser Young Leadership Council is for young adults whose lives have been impacted by a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation and who want to connect with others, learn more about hereditary cancer risk and help advance the Basser Center’s mission.
The YLC welcomes people who are interested in:
- Connecting with the BRCA community and meeting others with shared experiences
- Learning about BRCA research and care, including advances in cancer prevention, risk management and treatment
- Sharing experiences and perspectives related to genetic testing, preventive care, fertility, family planning and living with a BRCA mutation
- Advocating for the BRCA community and raising awareness about hereditary cancer risk
- Supporting the next generation of BRCA research and the Basser Center’s work
Meet the YLC Co-Chairs
Young Leadership Council Events
Catch up on conversations from previous Young Leadership Council events. These videos feature YLC members, healthcare professionals, and BRCA experts discussing topics for young adults and families navigating hereditary cancer risk.
A night of connection, community, and captivating stories of lives impacted by BRCA mutations. Hear from Basser partner Filko Prugo, and YLC members Liza Brecker and Kristina Coccoluto.
Learn about mastectomy reconstruction surgery such as types of implants, reconstruction techniques, and more. Hear from Penn Medicine plastic surgeon Liza Wu, MD, who specializes in reconstructive surgery, and YLC members who shared their personal stories of undergoing breast reconstruction after prophylactic double mastectomy surgery.
What is a BRCA gene? Do BRCA mutations affect women and men differently? What is genetic counseling and when should you undergo it? These questions and more are answered in this virtual panel.
Fertility expert Dr. Jaime Knopman joins to discuss the process of freezing eggs and embryos and undergoing pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT).
Learn about ovarian cancer screenings, preventive surgical options, hormone replacement therapy, and more in this panel discussion. Panelists include Basser oncologist Ashley Haggerty, MD, MSCE and Basser YLC members Maura Morris and Katrina Wells.
Hear from our Basser Center YLC Co-Chair as she shares why our endless work means so much to her and her family.
Read Blog Posts Written by the YLC
Living with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation can bring questions about family, cancer risk, relationships, fertility, preventive care and what comes next. The Basser Young Leadership Council shares personal stories and experiences from young adults navigating hereditary cancer risk. Explore their stories now!
Interested in getting involved with the YLC?
Fill out the form below or contact Molly Canavan at 267-990-2520 to learn more.