Encouraging cancer patients and survivors to recognize opportunities and a professional future is something that Cancer and Careers strives for. Regaining a sense of control after a cancer diagnosis is not always easy, but a shift in perspective is one of the ways you might accomplish career goals and identify a path forward professionally.
Chris-Tia Donaldson is a prime example of what it looks like to apply lessons learned from cancer towards future endeavors. Chris-Tia is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Thank God It’s Natural (TGIN), a manufacturer of natural hair and skin care products. With a history of working with Fortune 500 companies, she is well-versed in hard work and finding fulfillment in her career.
After receiving a breast cancer diagnosis in 2015, Chris-Tia became more aware of the disparities that exist between those with money, and those without, particularly in terms of cancer treatment and recovery. By using her own cancer experience, along with her business acumen, she has created a brand that works to bring attention to and address the breast cancer mortality rates of African American women, who continue to die at higher rates than women of other races. Survivors often report a change in mindset following a cancer diagnosis, and Chris-Tia has put that new focus to work by being an advocate for others.
With an eye towards self-care, Chris-Tia uses her voice to amplify those of Black women and cancer survivors, by encouraging habits that will make them more productive professionals while making sure they take care of themselves mentally.
A few highlights from her blog include:
- 10 Things Breast Cancer and The Coronavirus Taught Me About Business
- 10 Tips Black Women Need to Manage Stress
- Setting Boundaries: The Importance of Work-Life Balance
- The Best Way to Support Someone With Cancer
Learn more about Chris-Tia's Cancer Experience:
- Being a CEO Saved My Life (Huffington Post, 2017)
- TGIN's Founder Talks Surviving Breast Cancer While Owning a Hair Care Company (JAM TV, 2017)
Check out Chris-Tia’s website: https://christiadonaldson.com.