Zora Kramer Brown facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Zora Kramer Brown
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| Born |
Elzora Mae Brown
March 20, 1949 |
| Died | March 3, 2013 (aged 63) Oklahoma City, US
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| Alma mater | Oklahoma State University |
| Known for | Breast cancer awareness |
Elzora Mae Kramer Brown (born March 20, 1949 – died March 3, 2013) was an American champion for breast cancer awareness. She worked hard to teach people about breast cancer, especially in the African-American community. Zora Brown was the first African-American woman to join the National Cancer Advisory Board. This board helps guide cancer research and programs in the United States.
Zora Brown's Early Life and Work
Zora Mae Brown was born on March 20, 1949, in Holdenville, Oklahoma. She grew up in Oklahoma City. In 1969, she earned her college degree from Oklahoma State University.
Zora Brown started her career working in offices. She worked for a group that made medicines. Later, she worked for the Ford Motor Company in their office that talks to lawmakers. In 1976, she became an assistant at the White House. There, she helped with programs for women and met Betty Ford, the First Lady.
Fighting Breast Cancer
Zora Brown was diagnosed with breast cancer two times. First in 1981, and again in 1997. Many women in her family also had breast cancer. Because of this, Zora wanted to help others.
In 1989, she started a group called the Breast Cancer Resource Committee (BCRC). This group worked to spread awareness about breast cancer to black women. At that time, black women were more likely to die from breast cancer than other groups. Zora's group helped share important information and support.
A Voice for Cancer Awareness
From 1991 to 1998, Zora Brown served on the National Cancer Advisory Board. President George Bush first chose her for this important role. She was the first African-American woman to be on the board.
Her work on the board made a big difference. Because of her efforts, the United States Congress provided money. This money helped pay for breast and cervical cancer screenings. These screenings were for women who had low incomes or no health insurance.
Zora Brown also shared her message on TV shows. She appeared on The Joan Rivers Show and The Oprah Winfrey Show. She also spoke to lawmakers in the United States Senate about breast cancer.
Zora Brown passed away on March 3, 2013. She was 63 years old. She died in Oklahoma City from problems related to ovarian cancer. Her work helped many people learn about cancer prevention and early detection.
