On October 25, 2019, I had an amazing time participating in the Fourth Annual C3 Prize Live Pitch Event in New York City. I was there representing the b-present Foundation as the winner of the first-ever Emerging Ideas Prize for our b-there online patient/supporter connection tool. It was an honor to be on the same stage with the three finalists competing for the Grand Prize and Innovation prizes.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

The C3 Prize funds innovative non-treatment ideas to improve cancer care. This was a record-breaking year, with nearly 250 proposals from all over the world. To be one of four finalists selected amongst such a large group of high-quality ideas was so validating for us! We have been working hard on the b-there tool over the last year, and this is just the boost we needed to help us get to the next level. It is empowering to have Astellas Oncology and C3 Prize stand behind our ideas and innovations and reassures us that we can make a difference in cancer care and turn a difficult experience into a positive one for others.

From Left: Abby Westerman (b-present Foundation), Leah Werry (Nanny Angel Network), Bill Rancic (Cancer Activist and Celebrity Entrepreneur), Leslie Schover (Will2Love), Daniella Koren (ARCHES Technology)

 

BETTER TOGETHER

The night before the live pitch event, I had the pleasure of meeting and having dinner with the three finalists for the Grand Prize category. Although we were all feeling the pressure of the next day’s activities, we also felt the calm that comes with knowing that changing cancer care is bigger than all of us, and we are all in this together.

Prior to the live pitch event, we had the unique opportunity to be coached by C3 Prize partner TEDMED. Each finalist had their own amazing story to tell, sharing their connection to their idea. I think we can all agree that working with TEDMED was an incredible learning and growth experience bringing those stories to life.

AND THE WINNER IS…

Congratulations to the Grand Prize winner, Nanny Angel Network, an organization focused on providing “Nanny Angels” to care for children whose mothers have cancer, providing stability, normalcy, and support during this challenging time.

And congratulations to the two Innovation winners, ARCHES Technology and Will2Love. ARCHES Technology was recognized for its digital education and engagement program, MyCareCompass, which provides relevant information and education to people impacted by cancer throughout their treatment journey. Will2Love was recognized for providing education and expert guidance on reproductive health to help people impacted by cancer manage their sexual health and fertility.

I am so grateful to Astellas Oncology, the C3 Prize team, the judges, TEDMED, and all of the finalists for making this the experience of a lifetime. I left inspired and energized, and can’t wait to see what the future holds as we make b-there the tool that brings normalcy back to the lives of young adults with cancer.

The best is yet to come!