In Memory of Ananda Lewis: A Wake-Up Call for Us All

In Memory of Ananda Lewis: A Wake-Up Call for Us All.

This week, the world lost a bold, beautiful voice. Ananda Lewis, former MTV VJ, talk show host, and powerful advocate for women and youth, passed away at the age of 52 after a years-long battle with stage IV breast cancer. Her passing is not just a loss to the entertainment world—it’s a deeply personal reminder of why we do the work we do at I Am My Sister’s Bra Foundation, Inc.

Ananda first shared her diagnosis in 2020, candidly revealing that she had avoided mammograms for years. Like many women, especially in communities of color, she feared the procedure and underestimated the urgency of early detection. By the time she went in, her cancer was already advanced. In her final months, she spoke openly about her regrets, urging women everywhere to prioritize their health.

“There are things I wish I did differently 10 years ago to prevent cancer,” she said in a heartfelt video earlier this year. “Prevention is the cure.”

At I Am My Sister’s Bra Foundation, Inc., we echo that sentiment every day. Our mission was born from a similar place of loss and love—when we said goodbye to Laura, my sister and the inspiration behind this foundation. Like Ananda, Laura’s strength, honesty, and fight remind us why early detection, access to care, and a strong support system are vital for survival.

Too often, women are left to battle this disease in silence—either due to fear, lack of access, or shame. We exist to break that silence. To show up with bras, resources, emotional support, and financial assistance. To walk beside survivors and fighters every step of the way.

Ananda’s story may have ended too soon, but her voice continues to speak. It reminds us that awareness alone is not enough—we must act. We must advocate. We must schedule those appointments, have the hard conversations, and reach out to others with compassion and urgency.

To honor Ananda and Laura, and every woman whose journey has been touched by breast cancer, we promise to keep pushing. To keep educating. To keep wrapping our sisters—biological or chosen—in support.

May Ananda’s light live on through every life saved by her truth. In Memory of Ananda Lewis and Laura!

In love and legacy,

Alicia D. Long

Founder, I Am My Sister’s Bra Foundation, Inc.