Tamika Felder: Cervical Cancer Survivor and Advocate Changing the Narrative Around HPV and Women’s Health

Meet Tamika Felder—cervical cancer survivor, women’s health advocate, educator, and the fearless founder of Cervivor, a nonprofit organization dedicated to cervical cancer awareness, prevention, and support. Tamika calls herself not just a survivor, but a “Cervivor,” and she’s on a mission to empower women to protect their health, break down stigma, and eliminate cervical cancer once and for all.

Diagnosed at 25: From Patient to Powerhouse

At just 25 years old, Tamika’s life changed when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer. Her treatment included chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery that resulted in the removal of her cervix and uterus—ultimately ending her ability to bear children.

But instead of retreating in silence, Tamika chose visibility and vulnerability. She openly shares her story to raise awareness about HPV (human papillomavirus)—the #1 cause of cervical cancer—and to encourage early screening and prevention, especially for Black women who are statistically more likely to die from this disease.

Destigmatizing HPV in Black Communities

Tamika’s journey hasn’t been without judgment. Because HPV is a sexually transmitted infection, she’s faced stigma and shame—issues that disproportionately impact Black women due to cultural taboos around sexual health.

Through her work with Cervivor, Tamika is helping to shift the conversation from shame to self-advocacy, urging women to talk more openly about sexual health, Pap smears, HPV testing, and the HPV vaccine.

The Alarming Reality: Black Women & Cervical Cancer Disparities

• Over 2,000 Black women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year in the U.S.

• More than 40% of those women will die from the disease.

• Black women have twice the mortality rate of white women and lower five-year survival rates.

• Early cervical cancer is often symptomless, making routine screening critical.

Why does this disparity exist? A combination of factors: lack of access to quality care, lower rates of early detection, and delayed treatment.

Cervical Cancer Is Preventable—Here’s How to Protect Yourself

Tamika’s story highlights something vital: Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer when caught early. Here's what you need to know:

• Get screened early: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends starting Pap tests at age 21.

• Routine HPV testing: Especially important for women over 30, who are most at risk.

• Take the HPV vaccine: This vaccine protects against the types of HPV most likely to cause cancer.

• Know the warning signs:

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding

  • Pain during or after sex

  • Unusual discharge

  • Bleeding after pelvic exams or douching

The Cervivor Podcast: Healing Through Storytelling

Understanding that storytelling is healing, Tamika created The Cervivor Podcast, where survivors, clinicians, and everyday women share their journeys. It’s a resource for those who’ve faced cancer, those who haven’t, and those who want to better understand how to support a loved one.

Through this platform, Cervivor builds community and awareness—because when we speak up, we save lives.

Cervivor’s Mission: Education, Empowerment & Elimination

Tamika’s vision is bold but clear: To create a world where cervical cancer no longer exists.
By connecting with women globally, training advocates, and dismantling misinformation, Cervivor empowers women to take control of their health—and demand better care.

Advocacy Saves Lives

Tamika Felder is a beacon of hope, proof that survival can spark a movement. Her work reminds us that Black women deserve accessible, stigma-free care—and that education is the first step toward healing and prevention.

Your health is your power, Sis. Get screened. Get vaccinated. Get informed.