Monique Wilson – Spreading Joy and Purpose Through Advocacy
Advocate Spotlight: Monique Wilson
Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016, Monique Wilson has turned what could have been a story of fear into a mission of hope and advocacy. When Monique reflects on her cancer experience, she sees positivity and resilience. “When people see me, they see laughter. They see joy,” she shares. Today, she is a survivor and a force for change, helping others navigate their own survivorship with grace and determination.
Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, Monique built a life filled with love and creativity in Leesburg, Georgia, where she resides with her husband of 26 years, Freddreck. Her days were full of energy, joy, and artistic pursuits like crafting and jewelry-making—until July 26, 2016, when she heard the words, “It’s breast cancer.”
Monique discovered the lump during a self-exam in June 2016. Though there was no family history of breast cancer, she trusted her instincts and quickly sought medical advice. Diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer, she faced lumpectomy, 33 radiation treatments, and 10-years of hormonal therapy. Along the way, she dealt with fatigue, anxiety, and other side effects but remained anchored by her faith and an incredible support system of family and friends. “My husband, Freddreck, was my steadying rock. Together, we celebrated life even in the midst of the battle,” she recalls.
Monique’s determination to “press on” was not just about surviving cancer but thriving despite it. She embraced the experience as an opportunity to help others, realizing that her experiences could make a difference in the lives of fellow survivors. “Surviving cancer has made me different in so many ways, both physically and emotionally,” she explains. “But I’ve learned to laugh, find purpose, and share that joy with others.”
Her first steps into advocacy began with her involvement in local and national cancer organizations. As the Chapter President of the Sisters Network, Southwest Georgia (SWGA), and a Face2Face Coordinator with the Young Survival Coalition (YSC), Monique offered survivors a shoulder to lean on and a listening ear. She and her husband even took part in the annual Tour de Pink Charity Bike Ride, a tradition they’ve maintained for eight years. “It’s not just about the ride; it’s about community,” she says.
Monique’s passion for education and advocacy led her to join programs like the National Breast Cancer Coalition’s Project LEAD and the AntiCancer Lifestyle Program, where she deepened her understanding of survivorship and wellness. As a Cancer Wellness Coach, she now mentors others navigating the complexities of life after cancer.
In 2023, Monique connected with the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS). Through the Elevating Survivorship program and Cancer Policy and Advocacy Team (CPAT), she discovered a platform to expand her voice and impact. Monique earned a spot as an NCCS Elevate Ambassador, focused on developing a survivorship program in her community. In 2024, she attended the CPAT Symposium for advocacy training and went to The Hill to advocate for the Comprehensive Cancer Survivorship Act (CCSA) and the Cancer Care Planning and Communications Act (CCPCA). Monique says, “NCCS has truly changed my view on advocacy and given me the motivation to be effective and resilient in cancer advocacy.” By attending CPAT events and learning about policy work, she not only brought valuable resources back to her community but also inspired others to step into advocacy. “My voice matters, and so does yours,” she reminds fellow survivors.
Monique’s experience has taught her that life is precious and that each day is an opportunity to make a difference. Her message to survivors is simple but profound: “Life is tough, but so are you. Take things one day at a time and remember: I WILL SURVIVE.” She continues, “NCCS has truly changed my view of advocacy and given me the tools to be effective in my advocacy.”
As she looks ahead, Monique envisions a world where survivors have access to comprehensive resources, equitable care, and supportive communities. She believes in the power of collective advocacy to shape policies and improve outcomes for all cancer patients. “If someone had told me in 2016 that I’d become a cancer coach, advocate, and a voice for others, I wouldn’t have believed it. But here I am, making a difference,” she says.
Learn more about NCCS’s CPAT program for advocates and join for free.
