DNA Holds Your Cancer Risk Can You Afford To Know | MADISON MILLER | TEDxCentral Michigan University
"Your DNA Can Tell You Your Risk for Cancer – Can You Afford to Listen?" is a deeply personal and thought-provoking TEDx talk that explores the life-changing power—and emotional weight—of genetic testing. The speaker shares her own story, beginning with the devastating loss of her father to cancer, a moment that sparked her journey into understanding inherited risk. As she confronts the possibility that she, too, may carry a genetic predisposition to cancer. This talk blends science with vulnerability, highlighting the tension between knowledge and fear, access and action. It’s a call to consider not just what our DNA can tell us—but whether we’re truly ready to listen, and to afford it, and what we’ll do with the truth once we hear it. 2nd-Year Medical Student | Health Advocate | Hereditary Cancer Gene Mutation Carrier
Madison Miller is a second-year medical student at Central Michigan University College of Medicine with a personal connection to her work — she carries an ATM gene mutation and is a passionate member of the hereditary cancer community. Her experiences give her a unique perspective on cancer, blending clinical work, research, academics, and real life.
When she’s not studying or in the hospital, Madison is an active health care advocate at the state and national level. An important focus of her advocacy is for better awareness, research, and access to care to make a difference for individuals and families affected by hereditary cancer.
But life isn’t all oncology! Madison dances with Infusion Dance Team at CMU, loves camping trips with friends, soaking up time in nature with her husband, and making new memories with her family — moments that remind her what she's fighting for. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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