Registration will open at 6:30 p.m.  Program begins at 7:00 p.m. This event is free and open to the community.

This event aims to inform and educate the community that being of Ashkenazi Jewish descent changes the potential to carry genetic risk factors for breast and ovarian cancer and the possibility to be a carrier for 19 + genetic diseases. Speakers from three reputable organizations join the Tampa community for this conversation: Sharsheret’s Florida Regional Director, Briana Schwarz will discuss what’s Jewish about breast cancer; The Victor Center will present the importance of pre-conceptive testing in the Jewish community with Dr. Arelis Martir-Negron and Deborah Wasserman, MS; and Moffitt Cancer Center Genetic Counselor, Kathleen Ray will discuss how genetic testing works and who may consider testing.

Attendees will also have an opportunity to get tested for the new Preconception Jewish Genetic Disease Panel directly following the presentation at a highly subsidized rate. There will be no cancer genetic testing available on premises that evening.

The event is also a part of the 2015 Tampa JCC Festival of Books & Conversations taking place from October 18-27, 2015. For more information or to register for testing, please contact Suzanne Bern at suzanne.bern@jewishtampa.com or 813-769-4723.