About Co-Founder Eva Grayzel, stage IV Oral Cancer Survivor and Speaker

Eva Grayzel, a professional interactive performance artist was diagnosed with late-stage oral cancer at age 33 and told she had a 15% of survival. A non-smoker, she was bounced among dental professionals while the ulcer on her tongue grew more prominent and painful.

“It was two years and nine months from the first appointment with a dental professional until the day I was finally diagnosed with late stage oral cancer. During that time, no one EVER mentioned the words ‘oral cancer’ as a possible cause. Finally, I made an appointment with the chief of head and neck surgery at Mt Sinai Hospital, Dr. Mark Urken. I took the bus into Manhattan that fateful day of April 1st 1998 not having the slightest idea that what was on my tongue was remotely serious.”

Eva endured a partial tongue reconstruction, a modified radical neck dissection, and a maximum dose of radiation therapy. Through an extraordinarily successful treatment plan, Eva not only survived
but also regained her ability to speak clearly. With a second chance at life, Eva couldn’t let the same thing happen to someone else.

A champion for early detection, Eva founded Six-Step Screening, a grassroots oral cancer awareness campaign for dental professionals and the general public. For her initiative, she was recognized by the American Academy of Oral Medicine and given honorary membership (PDF, 4.9 MB).

“I share my personal story hoping it will inspire listeners to demand oral cancer screenings for themselves as well as for those they love. Together, we can save lives. It’s more than my mission to educate. It’s my tribute to all those that came before me and my obligation to those that will follow.”

In 2010, Eva celebrated her 10-year cancer-free anniversary by founding Talk4Hope.com, a book series for children who have a family member with cancer. These books provide coping strategies for children, and help families communicate with each other about a loved one with a serious illness.

Bring Eva Grayzel to Your Next Meeting or Event

Eva speaks nationally and internationally about her journey through stage IV Oral Cancer, inspiring listeners with courage to confront the impossible, finding opportunity in adversity, and the importance of early detection of oral cancer.

Download Lecture Synopsis and Bio (PDF, 66K)

View her speaking schedule.

Visit www.EvaGrayzel.com.

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