Joyce Nortey

Hello! I’m Joyce! I’m a clinical researcher and patient advocate passionate about advancing equity and inclusion in healthcare. I am a former breast cancer researcher but have spent the last several years focused on integrating the patient voice into clinical studies—especially through the use of digital health technologies and patient-generated health data. My work centers on designing decentralized and real-world evidence studies that improve access, engagement, focus on preventive health models and outcomes for communities that have historically been excluded from research.

My path to diagnosis was long, frustrating, and confusing. I discovered a lump but was repeatedly dismissed by several types of healthcare professionals and told I was too young for a mammogram—and that I was simply being insecure about my “aging” body. After months of self-advocacy and persistence, I was finally sent for imaging and, at the age of 36, I was diagnosed with Stage 2A, hormone receptor-negative, HER2-positive invasive ductal carcinoma—despite having no known family history or genetic markers for breast cancer. I underwent chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and ongoing infusions while continuing to lead work that prioritized patients’ lived experiences. My diagnosis—and the delay in receiving it—deepened my commitment to reshaping clinical research and care to reflect the realities of those most impacted, especially young black women.

I first heard about BAYS from members of my Young Women with Breast Cancer support group. I joined soon after and was immediately drawn to the mission and the people, which resonated deeply with my own passion for advocacy, health equity, and building spaces where young survivors felt seen, supported, educated and empowered to make the best decisions for themselves while on their journey. I joined the board in 2025 to help expand that impact and give back to a community that welcomed me with open arms.

When I’m not working or advocating for patient-centered care, you can find me soaking up the sun on a beach, traveling the world, dancing at a music festival, or reconnecting with my Ghanaian roots.