Claflin graduate Tamika Felder ’97, like many young women, dreamed of carrying a child and giving birth. However, Tamika’s dream will never become reality.  She was diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer in May 2001 which resulted in a hysterectomy.  She then suffered the affects of undergoing chemotherapy and radiation along with the emotional impact of having had cancer at such an early age. Despite this tragic setback, Tamika decided she needed to be on the frontlines for advocating better and improved screenings for cervical cancer and to provide information to the many thousands of women her age who are at risk. 

Tamika’s work to help eliminate cervical cancer did not go unnoticed.  In November 2006, Women in Government, a non-profit, bi-partisan organization representing women state legislators in the United States, presented the Presidential Leadership Award to her for her efforts to eliminate cervical cancer worldwide.  Tamika was among a distinguished group of people and organizations who accepted their awards including The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation on November 18, 2006 at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, DC. Tamika is now among the many of hundreds of Claflin graduates who have distinguished themselves in the area of leadership and service throughout the world.

          After graduation, Tamika embarked on a career for the Office of the Mayor of Washington, DC as a television producer, however much of her personal time is dedicated to educating women about the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer. In January 2005, she created Tamika & Friends (www.tamikaandfriends.org) to increase awareness about HPV and its link to cervical cancer.  Tamika hosts House Parties of five, a party that mixes “girl friend conversation” with informative sessions about cervical cancer and sexual health.  At the conclusion of the party, guests are encouraged to visit their gynecologists for Pap tests and/or HPV screenings and to share the information with friends.

          Tamika, a beacon for cancer survivors, is living proof that there is a productive quality of life after cancer.  Through Tamika & Friends, she is sometimes the first direct contact after a woman learns of her diagnosis. On a one on one basis, Tamika provides counseling for cancer survivors who are dealing with the emotional, physical and financial impact of cancer. She, personally, responds to all of the e-mails and provides much needed information about treatment, medical insurance, and services. 

          Tamika says that she is especially proud that Claflin University has its own program to eliminate health disparities in HIV/AIDS and cervical cancer through research and outreach.

In 2005, Claflin University announced a collaborative partnership with the University of South Carolina that would provide fellowships, research internships, and undergraduate and graduate research focused on HIV/AIDS and the human papillomavirus and its link to cervical cancer.  The partnership, funded at $7.5 million by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), will narrow the gap among those affected by HIV/AIDS and cervical cancer and information and support they need.

Commenting on the impact that Claflin made in her life, Tamika stated, “Claflin was the best thing that happened to me.”

Tamika majored in English with a concentration in Mass Communications where she acquired skills qualifying for the job in the Mayor’s office.

“Upon graduating in 1997, I knew more about television production than many of my colleagues who had graduated from Ivy League colleges.”  Claflin provided the best hands-on training and the best professors,” said Tamika.  Tamika says she still keeps in touch with her professor seeking advice about her profession.

So what’s next for the award-winning television producer with national accolades under her belt? Tamika is planning for the first ever HPV Cervical Cancer Walk (Walk) on the National Mall in Washington, DC.  It will take place May 19, 2007.  Many of her friends and alumni from Claflin University will join her and other cancer survivors on the walk around the national monuments to bring more awareness about HPV and cervical cancer.  She is also planning a college tour, traveling throughout the country advocating preventive care and educating young people about the disease.

In 2004, Women in Government launched the Challenge to Eliminate Cervical Cancer Campaign, which engages state legislators nationwide in policy and awareness initiatives to advance cervical cancer prevention. 

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women worldwide after breast cancer, and in developing countries, the leading cause of death by cancer.  American Cancer Society estimates that in 2006, over 9,700 cases of invasive cervical cancer were diagnosed in the United States and about a third of these women will die from the disease.

          To learn more about Claflin University, the undergraduate research institution ranked in the “Top Tier” by U.S. News & World Report for its exceptional academic programs and graduation rate, log on to www.claflin.edu.