Triumph Over Multiple Myeloma and Breast Cancer

Date posted: October 17, 2025

By Dr. Rupesh J. Parikh | Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada

Before treatment

Danielle Green’s journey to healing began not with a doctor’s visit, but with a decision to put her health first. At 55, the Henderson business owner and mother of one had launched a personal fitness plan, determined to lose weight and lower her blood pressure before undergoing an elective breast reduction. What started as a routine checkup became life-changing when her cardiologist ordered blood work and discovered unusually high protein levels. The results pointed toward multiple myeloma, a rare blood cancer, and she was referred to Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada (Comprehensive) for answers. 

Under my care, Danielle was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in January 2024. As we began treatment at Comprehensive, a PET scan revealed something unexpected: a small, two-centimeter mass in her right breast. Further testing confirmed it was a HER2-positive, ER-negative breast tumor. Because of the tumor’s aggressive nature, we paused myeloma therapy so she could begin chemotherapy for breast cancer immediately. From April through June, Danielle endured the rigors of chemotherapy with the grace and determination that have defined her life. 

During treatment

In July under care from the Comprehensive team, she underwent surgery, and the pathology report brought welcome news — her tumor had completely responded to treatment. “It was just gone,” she recalls with a smile. While Danielle now prepares for three weeks of radiation and a planned stem cell transplant to keep her myeloma in check, her cancer markers today are nearly undetectable. 

A Kansas City native who has called Las Vegas home for 20 years, Danielle is the founder of Radically Curly in Henderson, a salon and community hub where she and her team of seven stylists champion natural hair. Throughout her treatment at Comprehensive, she continued to inspire her clients and the broader curly-hair community. Determined to keep her own curls, 

Danielle used a cold-cap therapy during chemotherapy, which limited her hair loss to about 30 percent and allowed her to embrace a stylish curly pixie cut. 

Faith, family and fitness have guided Danielle’s fight. She credits her 26-year-old daughter, friends and clients for surrounding her with support and prayer. “I declared every day, ‘I am healed, and I am whole,’” she says. Even on the hardest days, she made time for gentle walks to stay strong. “Keep moving your body and trust the process,” she advises others facing a similar diagnosis. 

After treatment

Danielle’s story is a testament to early detection and the level of care she received at Comprehensive. From spotting a hidden tumor on a PET scan to customizing a treatment plan that addressed two cancers at once, the team at Comprehensive worked alongside her every step of the way. Today she stands as proof that vigilance, faith and a collaborative medical approach can lead to extraordinary outcomes. As a bonus, she’s inspired an entire community to prioritize health and regular screenings. 

Rupesh J. Parikh, MD, is practice president and a medical oncologist at Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada.

HISTORIC BLACK VEGAS: Reflecting on Clinton Wright’s historic visual legacy

Date posted: October 16, 2025
Claytee D. White

BY CLAYTEE D. WHITE

On Sept. 12, the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh unveiled a powerful and historic tribute — a stunning exhibition honoring 60 Black photojournalists from across the nation. Among those featured in this visually compelling space was our very own Clinton Wright, veteran photojournalist of The Voice Newspaper, whose images of Las Vegas’s Black community have captured decades of untold stories. 

But Clinton Wright’s inclusion was more than symbolic — it was celebratory. Of the sixty photographers selected, only six were highlighted with live presentations, where someone was invited to speak about their work. I had the tremendous honor of presenting Clinton Wright’s legacy to the audience. 

Let me take you there. The Carnegie Museum of Art — nestled near the University of Pittsburgh — is more than just a gallery. It’s part of a larger cultural epicenter that includes a natural history museum, a world-class library, and a vibrant art institution. The exhibit, curated by Dan Leers, artist David Hartt, and Pittsburgh historian Charlene Foggie-Barnett, covered nearly half a floor in scale — comparable to the vast Lied Library at UNLV. 

Charlene Foggie-Barnett was instrumental in discovering Clinton Wright’s collection of over 8,000 photographs, archived in the Special Collections & Archives at UNLV. Thanks to ongoing digitization efforts — championed by UNLV’s Technical Services and Digitization Departments — these remarkable images are becoming publicly accessible, grant by grant. Sadly, funding from the state and donors is still too limited to cover essentials like digitization, which is key to preserving and teaching history. 

Clinton Wright’s journey began in Altheimer, Arkansas, but his impact was made in Las Vegas. After graduating from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff — a proud Historically Black College — Wright moved west to join family members who had migrated in 1957. He worked at the Stardust Hotel by day, but it was photography that lit his path. 

He was self-taught. He built his own darkroom. And through wedding photography, he became a quiet legend in the community. It was one wedding in particular — for the daughter of Jimmy Gay, the first Black professional at the Sands Hotel — that caught the attention of both Ebony Magazine and Dr. Charles I. West, the founder of The Voice Newspaper. 

“He asked me if I could take the pictures, develop them, and have them ready for print on the same day,” Wright recalled in a 2005 oral history interview. “I could — because I had my own darkroom.” 

That kind of hustle and commitment became a signature of Wright’s work. He didn’t just document events — he archived Black life in motion. 

In 2005, following that oral history interview, Clinton Wright donated his archive to UNLV’s Special Collections & Archives. Since then, digitization teams have worked diligently to preserve his negatives and make his photos accessible to a global audience. His work has since earned local accolades, including honors from the NAACP, features in regional publications, and now, this national recognition from the Carnegie Museum of Art. 

This exhibit, inspired by the prolific work of Charles “Teenie” Harris of the Pittsburgh Courier, didn’t just showcase Black excellence behind the camera. It showcased the everyday excellence within Black communities across America. From birthday parties to cotillions, cocktail lounges to church pews, graduations to grassroots organizing — the exhibit was a love letter to the lived experiences of Black people. 

And Clinton Wright? His lens didn’t just capture Las Vegas history — it preserved our joy, our struggles, our brilliance. 

As I stood in that gallery, surrounded by the life’s work of so many gifted Black photojournalists, I felt proud — not just of Clinton Wright, but of the generations he’s inspired by doing what he loved: telling our stories with truth, dignity, and light.

HEALTHIER YOU: Black women and breast cancer

Date posted:
Dr. Marguerite Brathwaite OB-GYN

BY DR. MARGUERITE BRATHWAITE OB-GYN

Breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in women. In 2025, more than 319,750 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 59,080 new cases of ductal carcinoma in situ will be diagnosed in women in the United States. While there has been an overall 44 percent decline in breast cancer deaths since 1989 — thanks to gains in awareness, earlier diagnoses, and more effective treatments — there is a persistent mortality gap between Black and white women. 

Data compiled by the American Cancer Society highlights the need to close this devastating gap. While breast cancer incidence rates among Black and white women are similar, mortality rates are markedly different, with Black women having a roughly 40-percent higher death rate from breast cancer. Among women under 50, the disparity is even greater: young Black women have double the mortality rate of young white women. 

The gap in breast cancer incidence and outcome among Black women is complex and multifactorial. Socioeconomic, geographic, and lifestyle factors may partially account for disparities. For instance, Black women are statistically more likely to have diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, and are less likely to breastfeed after childbirth — all of which are risk factors for breast cancer. They are more likely than white women to have inadequate health insurance or access to health care facilities, which may affect screening, follow-up care, and completion of therapy. 

These findings by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation are disturbing, but women can be proactive. Be sure to do self-breast checks, making sure you don’t feel anything unusual in your breast. And keep up with your regularly scheduled OBGYN’ appointments. Early detection of cancer in the breast can save your life. 

Women’s Innovative Care is here for you, and we encourage you to make an appointment by calling (702) 413-7740 or visiting us at 851 South Rampart Blvd. Suite 165 in Las Vegas.

KNIGHT MOVES | October ushers in autumn celebrations

Date posted:

By Craig Knight

Fall is here — and with it, a rare moment in history. This October isn’t just the start of the fourth quarter; it’s Q4 of a “25” year. That makes it exactly one-quarter of the way through the century. This alignment won’t happen again until 3025! 

Whether you’re wrapping up big projects, setting goals, or simply savoring the season, take a moment to appreciate where we are in time. It’s not just another October — it’s a milestone. 

In the Southern Hemisphere, October ushers in spring, while in the Northern Hemisphere, it signals autumn — the seasonal mirror of April for those down under. Wherever you are in the world, this month carries a sense of transformation and reflection. 

Sports in October: Viva Las Vegas! It’s an exciting month for sports fans: NFL and college football are in full swing. Go Las Vegas Raiders and UNLV Rebels! Our Vegas Golden Knights are lacing up for another thrilling NHL season. Major League Baseball and the WNBA playoffs are heating up, and all eyes are on our hometown heroes: The Las Vegas Aces! 

Let’s give it up for A’ja Wilson, who just made WNBA history by becoming the first player ever to win league MVP four times! She joins NBA legends like Bill Russell, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and LeBron James — the only NBA players with four MVPs. And that’s not all. A’ja also earned her third Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award. 

Now, get ready to mark your calendars, because October is full of highlights. 

October 7: KCEP Power 88.1 FM celebrates its 53rd Anniversary! Tune into The People’s Station for special “FUN-raisers” and find creative ways to lift our community’s voice. 

October 13: Indigenous Peoples’ Day/Columbus Day, a time to honor Native cultures and reflect on shared histories. 

October 31: Halloween and Nevada Day! Celebrate 161 years of statehood — Nevada was proudly “Battle Born” on October 31, 1864! 

October is packed with meaningful causes and cultural celebrations, led by Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Founded in 1985 by the American Cancer Society, this month emphasizes the importance of early detection for both women and men. Learn more and get involved with the National Breast Cancer Foundation at nationalbreastcancer.org. 

Here are some others: 

As we enjoy the spirit of fall, sports, and celebration, let’s also make space for reflection, awareness, and community responsibility. 

Until the next edition of Knight Moves, continue to educate yourself, engage with your community, and above all — share what you’ve learned.

YOU! HAVE THE POWER  | DEI, ‘Woke’: What do they really mean? 

Date posted:
DR. ELLEN BROWN

BY DR. ELLEN W. BROWN

What is DEI? 

It stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion — but what difference does that make in your life? 

Is DEI about specific groups being welcomed — or left out entirely? The short answer: all of the above … and more. 

We’re in a defining moment for DEI. The platform is evolving — but the direction it’s headed depends on who you are and where you stand. 

Some people see DEI as a form of progress. Others see it as a threat. Much of the backlash today comes from the belief that DEI initiatives discriminate against white individuals — often called “reverse discrimination.” Outside of legal definitions, discrimination is often in the eye of the beholder. And yes, the internet is overflowing with commentary on both sides of this debate. 

But there’s another layer to this: the rise of so-called “woke politics.” 

Let’s talk about that word — woke. 

When did it become something negative? When did being “woke” — once a term that meant being informed, aware, and socially conscious — turn into an insult? 

In my world, being “woke” was a compliment. It meant someone was aware, knowledgeable, and paying attention to what matters. Can I get a “Whoop- Whoop”? 

Now, it’s often used to shame or mock people for holding beliefs that challenge the status quo. Two completely opposite meanings — one rooted in justice, the other in ridicule. 

In fact, the term “woke” originally emerged from Black American communities as a call to be alert to racial and social injustice. That meaning has been twisted, politicized, and weaponized in today’s discourse. 

There’s a local angle, too. A nonprofit news outlet recently launched in Nevada called Nevada Current. They’ve published commentaries on DEI — expanding it even further to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ). According to their mission, they support DEI as it was originally intended: a framework for fairness, opportunity, and representation. Personally, I plan to follow them — their approach aligns with how I understand DEI. 

So here’s my takeaway: If you consider yourself “woke” — in the original sense of the word — stay alert. Not just to injustice, but to how language is being co-opted and distorted. Don’t let others define your values for you. 

I encourage you to educate yourself. One great place to start is YouTube — search for a video titled “The Origin of the Term ‘Woke.’” It’s eye-opening, to say the least. 

In the end, YOU have the power — to know, to speak, to act. 

And that’s what being truly “woke” is all about. 

This article aims to raise awareness of this initiative. Please share it with your friends, family, business contacts, congregations, and community members. Together, we can make a difference. I welcome your input, questions, and ideas for topics; feel free to send them to ebrown.nci@ gmail.com 

Drive Time

Date posted:

How Caravan for Mammogram became a signature Las Vegas gathering for survivors and supporters in the fight against breast cancer

Women from across Southern Nevada will mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month by taking part in the 9th Annual Las Vegas Caravan for Mammogram set for Oct. 4. 

The free yearly event — which raises awareness of the urgency behind taking proactive measures to protect breast health — has grown into a signature tradition in Las Vegas, as survivors and supporters parade their cars down the Las Vegas Strip. They unite to fight stigmas surrounding self-examination and to remind Black women — who die from breast cancer at much higher rates than white women — that no one is alone on the journey. 

This year’s participants will gather at 8 a.m. in the Valley Hospital parking lot (700 Shadow Lane) — where they will decorate their cars in pink before pulling out in parade formation between 10:30-11 a.m., escorted by Metro volunteers. At 99 years young, longtime Las Vegas resident and original Moulin Rouge dancer Anna Bailey (the first Black showgirl on the Las Vegas Strip) will serve as grand marshal. 

There is no cost for participating in Caravan for Mammogram, and all participating ladies will receive a big pink bag full of decorations to decorate their cars. There will also be a wonderful free lunch at the end of the caravan, where participants and community members can dine together and network. 

The 9th Annual Las Vegas Caravan for Mammogram is sponsored and supported by Steinberg Diagnostic, Comprehensive Cancer Centers, Intermountain Healthcare, KCEP 88.1 FM, Valley Hospital, Silver State Smiles and Las Vegas Black Image Magazine. The organizers thank the many volunteers, led by Caravan for Mammogram ambassadors Angela Scurry and Iris Moore. 

For additional information and to sign up for this free event, call (702) 615-8216. Participants are also welcome to register on-site the day of the event.

GLOVES STORY

Date posted:

Bringing back boxing and strengthening the sweet science with world champion Terence Crawford’s historic victory on a star-studded night in Las Vegas.

Boxing is back. 

At a moment when it is often overshadowed by an ascendant combat sport soon set to stage on the South Lawn of the White House, Terence “Bud” Crawford’s win over Saul “Canelo” Alvarez returned boxing to the rarefied spotlight that it has long occupied in the American imagination. 

The Sept. 13 match was about more than the four super middleweight world championship belts on Crawford’s shoulders at the conclusion of his victory by unanimous decision. It heralded a new era of visibility for a sport that routinely puts Las Vegas on the world stage and has produced Black cultural icons like Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Joe Louis, and Jack Johnson. 

More than 41 million viewers watched the fight on Netflix, streamed live to a global audience from a packed Allegiant Stadium — hosting its first-ever boxing match for a sold-out crowd. According to ESPN, the still-undefeated Crawford (42-0, 31 KOs), out of Omaha, Neb., “became the first male boxer in the four-belt era to be undisputed champ in three weight classes. … After capturing world titles in four weight classes — including achieving undisputed status at junior welterweight and welterweight.” 

And if Crawford’s historic achievement wasn’t a big enough sign of a resurgent sport, the star power at ringside rivaled the celebrity presence on a Hollywood red carpet. Among those spotted in the crowd of of 70,482: Magic Johnson, Dave Chappelle, SZA, Evander Holyfield, Mark Wahlberg, Tracy Morgan, Lizzo, Wiz Khalifa, Marshawn Lynch, and Mike Tyson. 

The two men in the ring for the main event put on a spectacular display of boxing for 12 rounds, as Crawford overcame doubts over how jumping into a higher weight class would slow him down. Ultimately, his speed and counter-punching ability gave him the win. 

“I’m the face of boxing now, and the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world like I’ve always been,” Crawford said after the fight.“This is the top of the top. Canelo is an all-time great. He’s the last one. There are no more Canelos. When you look around, you say, ‘I’m the Canelo.”

Healing Holidays

Date posted:

At a time of the year that can be as stressful as it is festive, Dinisha Mingo shares how you can help restore peace and joy for families in need.

The holidays are often portrayed as the most wonderful time of the year. But for many families, this season brings heightened stress, financial burdens, complicated family dynamics, and deep feelings of isolation. Rates of depression, anxiety, grief, and even suicide increase during this time of year; reminders that the holidays are not always easy or joyful. 

At Solutions of Change, we believe no one should face the holidays alone. That is why we created Healing Holidays, a therapeutic celebration that gives families the chance to breathe, connect, and find joy again. This year’s event takes place on December 13, and will welcome nominated families to share in a day filled with music therapy, art, games, festive meals, and meaningful community connection. 

For three years, Healing Holidays has reached more than 200 participants, serving children, parents, and grandparents from underserved communities who often lack access to resources and face socioeconomic stressors that create additional barriers during the holiday season. Participants have described the event as positively overwhelming. Many have said they felt honored to be nominated, and that the support and sense of community poured joy into their holiday experience. 

Healing Holidays is more than just an event. Families receive essentials such as food, clothing, hygiene items, and school supplies alongside holiday gifts. Children delight in toys, books, and creative activities, while parents find peace knowing they are seen, supported, and celebrated. 

This impact is only possible through community generosity. We are currently seeking donations of toys, food items, hygiene supplies, journals, self-care items, gift cards, bikes, and electronics. Monetary contributions are also deeply appreciated and allow us to reach even more families in need. 

This holiday season, we invite you to help us transform hardship into hope. When you give to Healing Holidays, you are not just donating. You are creating peace, joy, and healing for families who need it most. Donate today at www.solutionsofchange.org. Together, we can make this holiday season a time of true healing.

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHERS: Fall Forward

Date posted:
Charles Tureaud and Kimberly Bailey Tureaud

Across Las Vegas, October will be full of signposts reminding you of resilience, awareness, solidarity, and achievement in the Black community. 

Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Las Vegas Black Image will be part of the movement encouraging women to undergo regular medical screenings and engage healthcare professionals at the first sign of any unusual symptoms. 

(And that doesn’t mean that men are off the hook just because the month puts a focus on breast health. Our mission is to emphasize the importance of everyone taking proactive steps toward their health, advocating for regular check-ups and health consciousness for all.) 

Inside, you can read about how our efforts will be highlighted by the ninth annual Las Vegas Caravan for Mammogram, which the magazine is co-sponsoring on Oct. 4. 

Elsewhere in this edition of Las Vegas Black Image: 

● We reflect on Terence “Bud” Crawford’s triumph at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, where he became the undisputed super middleweight champion of the world and revitalized the sport of boxing with millions watching around the world. 

● In Community Speaks, readers weigh the importance of freedom of speech and expression and how it can foster dialogue and unity. 

● Take a look at Photos of the Month, where we showcase the lifestyles and personal stories that help define Las Vegas’ Black community. 

● Visit our Living section, which offers inspiration through home décor, culinary delights such as a recipe for sweet potato pie, and seasonal gardening tips — reminding us of the beauty and nurturing spirit within our community. 

The support of advertisers remains vital in sustaining the magazine’s mission to keep our voices alive. Gratitude is extended to those who consistently contribute, enabling Las Vegas Black Image Magazine to serve as a vital platform for information, inspiration, and community connection since 2008. 

Thanks to all of you, Las Vegas Black Image will continue to inspire and uplift. We express our deepest appreciation to our loyal readers, supporters, and contributors for making this journey more meaningful and impactful by the day.

Rise,
Charles Tureaud & Kimberly Bailey Tureaud
Publishers
(702) 615-8216 
cdalasvegas@gmail.com
LasVegasBlackImage.com

New West Las Vegas Library Opening Soon!

Date posted:

The community is full of excitement about the grand opening of the new West Las Vegas Library, set for December 9 at 1861 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. The original West Las Vegas Library, located at 951 West Lake Mead Blvd., will close on November 24 in preparation for the opening of the new facility — which will more than double its current size, expanding to 41,178 square feet to provide more educational resources and programs for literacy, learning, heritage-based celebrations, and fun experiences for people of all ages.