While working on my book, I was fortunate to meet many inspirational previvors, medical experts, and breast cancer activists. Brilliant, dedicated men and women who spend their time trying to figure out ways to fight cancer before it strikes. One of the people who stands out is a young woman named Lindsay Avner. Only in her 20s, Lindsay has helped educate countless women who are at high risk for breast or ovarian cancer through her national non-profit organization, Bright Pink.

What’s remarkable about Lindsay is her spirit. Even though she has watched many family members suffer from cancer and had to make difficult decisions about how to reduce her own risk, she is one of the most positive, upbeat people I have ever met. And her attitude is infectious—Bright Pink’s entire message is one of empowerment. Just like my book, Previvors, Bright Pink strives to let high risk women know that they have many options to beat their odds of getting breast cancer. The organization’s goal is to remind women that knowledge is power, and we’re so lucky that we don’t have to just live in fear of breast cancer. We can also be proactive and take charge of our health.

Thank you, Lindsay, for your warmth, you passion, and your determination to help so many young women struggling with their own risk. You have truly let them know that they are not alone.