The Rivkin Center’s Rivkin Education Program
The Rivkin Center for Ovarian Cancer’s Rivkin Education program provides free health education workshops. Rivkin Education facilitators are cancer survivors who share their in an effort to educate women about their breast and ovarian health and cancer risks.
Say hello to Stacy Goldsby, Rivkin Edu facilitator.
About Stacy
Where are you from? Oakland, Ca
Where do you live now? Oakland, my hometown.
What does a typical day look like for you? Getting used to my new routine of getting up super-early around 5am to prepare for commute to work. NO more 20 minutes to work!
I work for San Mateo County Public Authority for In-Home Supportive Services, a Medi-Cal program that supports disabled individuals including children and older adults with disabilities to hire supportive caregiving services right at home. I coordinate educational workshops for the home care providers.
I too, have been a caregiver in my family and as a breast cancer patient, I’ve been the one in need of a care support.
What do you do for fun? Explore vintage furniture stores and planning home decor projects for my new home.
What is your favorite mantra? Do You!
What is your favorite drink? 1st morning cup of Peet’s coffee
What advice would you give to your younger self? “When people show you who they are, believe them”
Where has been your favorite place to travel? Brazil
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you? I cannot swim
Where do you go to find inspiration? Still looking
Where’s your happy place? Anywhere walking a sweet, curious dog
Who is your role model or mentor? That’s not an easy answer…many people have touched my life. My 2 sisters, in particular.
How Stacy got involved
What inspired you to get involved with Rivkin Education? My mom died from breast cancer in 1984 at the age of 48. I have lived with the aftermath of her loss ever since she was diagnosed when I was 15 (I was 20 when she passed).
After my breast cancer diagnosis in 2012, I wanted to be in a position to share information and support others so that they may be motivated to take action. During the time of my mom’s illness, there were very few support services for breast cancer patients and their families. I wanted to honor her life by making a difference in someone’s life. I wanted to pay it forward for all the hugs, love, encouragement, support I received during my journey.
What is your favorite memory from a Rivkin Education party? Talking with a woman who had just moved to the Bay Area living in transitional housing and didn’t know where to find a primary care doctor in the community. I was able to share with here a few names of community clinics.
How can people help support someone going through cancer? Accept that you do not have all the answers. Ask what they need and be open to the little things that matter. Listening, being present. Be mindful of sharing stories about others you know who’ve gone through challenging medical challenges, cancer and what they experienced. Every journey is personal, unique to each person.
What is the most important thing you want attendees to learn at a Rivkin Education party? Information is power. Know your medical and family history as much as you have access. Early intervention is #1 and not just for cancer. Building a community of support around your life. You never know who may be that one to lift your spirits or share a story of encouragement on a tough day. Be open.
How many Rivkin Education parties have you attended? 12
How many total attendees have you hosted? 70
Learn more about the Rivkin Education program
Want to learn more about becoming an facilitator? Share your story.