Co-Chair, A Woman's Journey Harriet Legum's personal crusade began more than twenty years ago when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. After successful treatment at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, her illness became a catalyst that would affect her life and change lives in the community. Using her newfound voice, she became a powerful advocate for breast cancer research and education. As the chair of the Johns Hopkins Oncology Breast Cancer Research Chair and Fellowship Campaign she raised 2.1 million, endowing the first chair and fellowship of its type in the country. Recently Harriet chaired a fund raising event for the Johns Hopkins Avon Breast Center. Harriet’s developing interest in women’s health issues helped spur the creation of "A Woman’s Journey". Currently she serves as a co-chair of the multidisciplinary educational program. The annual symposium features Johns Hopkins professors who address a variety of current women’s health topics. The program which began in 1995, is open to the public and attracts nearly 1,000 women each year. Since 2004, Harriet also serves as a member of the Johns Hopkins Medicine Board of Advisors and member of the Oncology Advisory Committee. Harriet’s community involvement extends to the Kennedy Krieger Institute where she serves on its Board of Trustees. She assisted in the creation of a revolutionary music therapy program for children at the Kennedy Krieger School. In 2000 Harriet chaired the Festival of Trees for Kennedy Krieger, and successfully raised $600,000 for the fundraiser.
Harriet has served as a board member of the Susan G. Komen Foundation and was a founding member of the "Race for the Cure" in Baltimore. Utilizing her childhood education degree, Harriet also worked to educate youth and spread awareness about breast cancer as a volunteer speaker for Hadassah’s "Check It Out" high school program for young women. She also has touched the lives of children through her work at Sinai Hospital where she ran an educational program for the city and county first grade students to familiarize them with hospitals. Harriet also served as a chair of the auction Baltimore crabs to benefit Baltimore City Schools. Due to her exceptional leadership and strong community involvement, Harriet has been honored in “Portraits of Hope,” a photographic exhibition sponsored by the American Cancer Society. The American Cancer Society also honored her during the award ceremony "With One Voice" which recognized her commitment to the fight against breast cancer. Baltimore Magazine has honored her for her strength, character, and commitment to helping others. The magazine named Harriet as one of "Baltimore’s Most Powerful Women" in 1997. The Rotary Club of Woodlawn-Westview honored her with the “Community Volunteer of the Year Award” in recognition of exceptional dedication and commitment to the community. Harriet continues to serve as a resource for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients, offering support and personal insight into treating and surviving the disease. |