Brandi L. Benson

Brandi Benson, a remarkable figure in the fields of cancer advocacy, authorship, entrepreneurship, and an Iraq War veteran, embodies resilience and hope. Her life's mission is to empower individuals to conquer challenges and take charge of their well-being.

Benson's journey began in adversity, growing up amidst poverty and social injustice, driving her and her sister to enlist in the military. Stationed in Iraq's perilous 'Red Zone,' she faced not only external threats but also internal gender-related challenges. Adding to her trials, an unexpected cancer diagnosis prematurely ended her military career.

In 2009, Benson received a grim diagnosis of terminal cancer during her service in Iraq, with a mere 15% chance of survival and an eight to twelve-month life expectancy. Against all odds, she made a remarkable recovery and remains in remission to this day.

Devoting her life to advocacy, Benson champions cancer patients, survivors, and veterans, sharing her incredible journey and unwavering belief in miracles. She raises awareness about rare illnesses, emphasizing physical and mental recovery and offering practical strategies for empowerment.

Her advocacy efforts include serving as a consumer reviewer for the Department of Defense (DOD), where she represents the patient and survivor community in grant and clinical trial reviews. Her insights are invaluable in selecting research that addresses critical issues in cancer research. Additionally, she offers her mentorship through The Young Adult Peer Mentorship Program (AYA) at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and The Braven Mentorship Program at the esteemed HBCU, Spelman. She also holds positions on the Board of Directors for the Sarcoma Alliance and serves as an Ambassador for the organization.

As the author of "The Enemy Inside Me" and co-author of "The Art of Being Broken - How Storytelling Saves Lives" alongside Kevin Hines, Benson has received accolades from the Sarcoma Foundation of America and is renowned for her inspirational talk, "There Are Miracles Every Day, Why Can't You Be One?" In her speaking engagements, she emphasizes the significance of a strong support system, the power of vulnerability, successful reintegration into the workplace post-illness, and reshaping survivorship narratives.