Meet The Board

Tracy Milgram

Tracy Milgram-Posner founded BRCAStrong in 2015 after fighting alone for over 10 years against her BRCA2 genetic mutation. Tracy underwent two separate benign lumpectomies at 18- and 19-years-old before being officially told she carried the BRCA2 mutation in 2004 at 21 years-old.

When her doctors informed her in 2015 that she had an 85% risk of developing breast cancer, and a 30% chance of developing ovarian cancer, Tracy underwent a robotic, total hysterectomy. Six months later, she had a prophylactic double mastectomy.

Tracy aims to inspire others by sharing her journey and encouraging others to do the same. “I think we all experience some level of self-doubt and physical insecurities after breast or reproductive surgery and/or treatment – regardless of BRCA involvement. In a way, BRCA2 took away my womanhood – and there are too many more women out there facing challenges similar to mine. But though similar, all our experiences are different, and I hope that BRCAStrong provides a safe space to share and inspire each other.”

As she dealt with the physical and emotional effects of these aggressive procedures, Tracy saw a need for an inclusive community that would allow her and others to connect, share tips and stories and offer advice on everything from post-surgery dating to clinical side effects and mental health.

Dr. John P. Diaz, M.D. – Chief Medical Office

John P. Diaz, M.D., is a board-certified gynecologic oncologist at Miami Cancer Institute. Dr. Diaz provides comprehensive and compassionate gynecologic cancer care for women with endometrial, ovarian, cervical, vaginal or vulvar cancer. He has extensive training and experience in robotic and minimally invasive surgery, which results in shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times for patients. He is fluent in English and Spanish.

Dr. Diaz completed his gynecologic oncology fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering in New York and received the Department of Surgery Chairman’s Award. He currently serves as an associate professor for the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Florida International University.

As director of minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, Dr. Diaz leads the only Center of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery in South Florida. There, he and his colleagues perform thousands of robotic surgeries each year. Passionate about furthering the field of gynecologic oncology, Dr. Diaz leads Miami Cancer Institute’s gynecologic oncology research and clinical trials program. This program offers innovative treatments and advanced technologies to women in South Florida.

His research interests include novel surgical techniques for ovarian cancer and innovative cancer therapies, including hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In 2019, Dr. Diaz was awarded a $1.8 million grant to investigate immunotherapy and PARP inhibitors for cervical cancer treatment.

Dr. Diaz’s research has been published in numerous peer-reviewed medical journals, such as Oncology, Gynecologic Oncology, the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology, the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Gynecologic Oncology Reports. He is also a reviewer for Gynecologic Oncology, BioMed Cancer, International Journal of Gynecologic Oncology and the Annals of Surgical Oncology.

He has been an invited speaker and presented his research nationally and internationally at the Society of Gynecologic Oncology, American Society of Clinical Oncology, International Gynecologic Cancer Society and many others. Dr. Diaz also holds many leadership and committee positions within various organizations, including the Society of Gynecologic Oncology and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

He takes a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to patient care. Dr. Diaz is with his patients through every step of their treatment process, from diagnosis to surgery to chemotherapy to follow-up care. He takes the time to listen to each patient’s questions and goals and works closely with them to develop a tailored treatment plan.

Dr. Diaz also encourages his patients to take advantage of Miami Cancer Institute’s nutrition, physical therapy and mental wellness programs to maximize their quality of life during their cancer journey. When he is not treating patients, Dr. Diaz enjoys spending time with his family and participating in outdoor activities, including white water rafting, skiing and boating.

Mary Glasse

My name is Mary Glasse. I am a daughter, wife, mom, friend, cncr survivor. I found I had breast cncr in 2019. Fortunately, because of it, I joined a support group that lead me to BRCASTRONG. A photoshoot that had women of every walk of life and at the same time fighting cncr. I didn’t feel alone.

I promised Tracy that day I will help her with anything she needed. Here we are almost 5 yrs. later and I am on the board of this organization I trust and admire. BRCASTRONG still helps me today. Helping other women helps me heal mentally and emotionally. We are here to help you and support you in any way because we understand the road you are taking.

By the way, I didn’t misspell cncr. I don’t respect it enough to write its full name.

Ashley Valdes

Ashley Valdes is a dedicated professional advocate committed to assisting individuals on their healthcare journeys, particularly those affected by breast cancer, with a wealth of experience spanning over 15 years.

Her extensive knowledge of insurance procedures and unwavering commitment to staying informed about the latest developments in the field make her an invaluable resource for those seeking advocacy.

Beyond her professional life, Ashley’s commitment to making a positive impact is evident. Raised in a family actively involved in community activities, she inherited a strong sense of civic responsibility. This upbringing instilled in Ashley a profound appreciation for community engagement and the significance of giving back.

Motivated by her daughter, Alissa Marie, Ashley is inspired to educate and support women navigating the complexities of breast cancer. Recognizing the importance of providing valuable resources, information, and emotional support, Ashley’s compassion and empathy drive her to go above and beyond in empowering and uplifting breast cancer patients throughout their journeys.

Continuing to work tirelessly, Ashley ensures that patients receive the care and support they deserve. Her dedication, expertise, and commitment to community service make her a genuine advocate for those affected by breast cancer, embodying the qualities of a compassionate healthcare professional and serving as a beacon of hope.

To contact Ashley, please feel free to email her at Ashley@Brcastrong.Org

Beth Block Guendjoian

On January 30, 1998, I received the life-altering diagnosis of lobular breast cancer, Stage II. Detecting the lump myself was crucial. Just a week later, on February 6, 1998, I underwent a double mastectomy. However, my journey took another turn in May of that same year when I was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer with bone metastases. Determined to fight, I joined a Herceptin trial in August 1998, and the subsequent years have been a testament to resilience. Now, 26 years later and still counting UP, I stand as a survivor/thriver. Though I don’t carry a genetic predisposition, many of my friends do. This fuels my passion for supporting the breast cancer community, striving to save lives and make a meaningful difference. I wholeheartedly embrace the values of BRCASTRONG and am dedicated to its cause.

Crystal V. Carroll

Crystal V. Carroll is the CEO of Crystal’s Ladybug Creations, LLC. A company she created to remind individuals of their self-worth and to empower people of all ages to always SHINE! As a self published author, Crystal has written 3 colorful children’s books. She aspires to be come a motivational speaker, infusing her enthusiasm for life into others. Crystal is also a full time employee with Miami Dade County Public Schools, making a difference in students’ futures.

As a Breast Cancer survivor, Crystal believes in living each day to its fullest with grace, and gratitude. Crystal was diagnosed February 2022 with Stage 2, Invasive Ductal Carcinoma. She endured 16 rounds of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and continued daily hormonal medications. Through it all, she fought with persistent positivity. She participating in a medical trial with the intention of paying homage to those before her, and hoping to assist in finding a cure for the future. To date, Crystal has no evidence of the disease.

No one envisions being a part of this pink sisterhood, however, Crystal continues to make the most of this chapter of her journey called life. Crystal has participated in the BRCAStrong “Dear Body Project” being featured as Mrs. January 2024. She has participated in the successful Waves of Hope 5k run, raising money for care packages to be sent to women on their own individual cancer journey. At each event, Crystal has added her compassion and experiences making an effort to educate the community to be self aware, stay positive and get tested.

Crystal resides in Miami, Florida. She is a devoted wife to a compassionate first responder and a very present mother of two amazing young adults.

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Thanks to All Who Have Supported