Meet Charlotte Martin: Breast Cancer Survivor, Health Advocate & Director of Development, THE Breast Cancer Fundraiser

We had the good fortune of connecting with Charlotte Martin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Charlotte, how does your business help the community?
I’m the Director of Giving for THE Breast Cancer Fundraiser, which is an organization that provides comfort and care to newly diagnosed breast cancer patients through our WeCare Program. When I was first diagnosed with early age breast cancer in 2018, I received a package from THE BCF and was able to experience firsthand the true impact the WeCare Package can have. During such a vulnerable and confusing time, the WeCare package is a symbol of hope and comfort for those ladies at the most important stage, after receiving the news of their diagnosis. From informative reading materials to comforting socks, this package is full of beneficial resources to help breast cancer patients in the utmost tangible, caring way.

Beyond the essential patient support the WeCare package supplies, it stands alone as a first-line practical and emotional resource for patients. It shows patients that they have an army of support from previous patients, their community, and their loved ones while providing them with a few essential items that they will need along their journey.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The way I entered my profession was somewhat different than most, I made my mess my message. A life-changing breast cancer diagnosis which at the time seemed to destroy my life truly brought it back together in a better way, changing the path to access my passion, and opening up an avenue that I believe in my heart to be a career that I was destined for all along.

I always wanted to be in a position to help and heal others, and while medical sales (my previous job) was allowing me a limited version of this, it wasn’t until I was a breast cancer patient myself and a recipient of a WeCare package from THE Breast Cancer Fundraiser that I was able to understand how to truly tap into all the love I had to give. By understanding this journey (and the challenges and pain associated with it) so intimately, I am able to shine a light and give guidance on the road ahead for the many women whom I serve and provide assistance to today.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am a Los Angeles Westsider and very AWOL (Always West Of Lincoln Blvd) so my favorite spots are all a $5 Uber away from each other. Here’s a top 3 list of the best of the west:

1.) Scopa Italian Roots – Scopa has some of the most authentic Italian food and best wine LA has to offer, with a great social scene and incredible decor.

2.) Nueva – Nueva is a new Mexican restaurant (right next to Scopa) that has some of the best Mexican food and mezcal cocktails in LA. The vibes in this place are so sexy and fun, plus their Rib Eye steak is to die for.

3.) For Sunset, the best place in Santa Monica is Elephante, which has an exclusive social scene with great cocktails with an ocean view, and a very tulum chic vibe.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are two women in my life that continue to be a source of encouragement, love, and support. First, my mom Christine. Through every obstacle and challenge she’s been faced with in this life she’s overcome all of them with such resilience, strength, elegance, and determination. She’s a breast cancer survivor and continues to inspire so many women and men with her wit, charm, and passion for life. The other woman is Nilo G.Low. Nilo is the founder and president of the board for THE BCF. With her encouragement, I’ve been able to step into a role at THE BCF that’s really shaped the woman I am now and continue to grow into.

Instagram: @charlotte_e_martin

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.martin.18

Other: THE Breast Cancer Fundraiser www.thebcf.org @THEBCF

Image Credits
Frankie Batista