The People Behind Coastal Hope for Healing

Coastal Hope for Healing is guided by a dedicated team of cancer survivors, healthcare professionals, and providers who share a deep commitment to empowering individuals impacted by cancer and pursuing reconstructive options.

Together, we bring compassion, expertise, lived experience, and community leadership to every aspect of our mission.

Our Leadership Team

Kavita Jablonka, PhD

Executive Director
President, Board of Directors

Kavita Jablonka is the Executive Director of Coastal Hope for Healing, as well as President of the Board of Directors. As a cancer survivor and former communication & cultural studies professor, Kavita brings both personal insight and professional expertise to her leadership—shaping programs, resources, and storytelling initiatives that honor the complexities of experiencing a life-changing illness and center emotional wellbeing in the process of healing & recovery.

With a background in research, education, and community engagement, Kavita leads CHFH’s strategic vision, partnerships, programming, and public presence. She is deeply committed to ensuring that anyone navigating breast reconstruction and life after cancer has access to clear information, compassionate support, and a sense of belonging.

Through initiatives like The Mentorship Collective, The Reading Refuge, The Journey Forward, and Hope in Motion, Kavita helps amplify survivor voices, foster meaningful connection, and transform lived experience into healing and impact.

Guiding belief: Healing is not just about surviving—it’s about rebuilding confidence, identity, and community.

Eric Jablonka, MD

Founder
Member, Board of Directors

Dr. Eric Jablonka is a co-founder and currently serves on the Board of Directors for Coastal Hope for Healing, contributing medical expertise, clinical insight, and a strong commitment to patient-centered care.

As a physician, Dr. Jablonka brings a valuable healthcare perspective to the organization’s governance, ensuring that educational content, resources, and outreach efforts align with medical best practices while remaining compassionate, accessible, and patient-focused.

His involvement supports CHFH’s mission to bridge the gap between clinical care and lived experience—helping individuals make informed decisions and feel supported throughout treatment, reconstruction, and recovery.

Commitment: Advancing ethical, evidence-informed, and compassionate support for the breast cancer community.

Our Support Team

Candace Brown

Candace Brown serves as Program Coordinator for Coastal Hope for Healing, supporting the planning, implementation, and growth of CHFH’s community programs, events, and support initiatives.

With a strong passion for service and connection, Candace helps ensure that participants feel welcomed, heard, and supported across every touchpoint—from mentorship programming to educational events and outreach efforts. She plays a key role in strengthening relationships with community partners, organizing logistics, and helping CHFH deliver thoughtful, accessible, and impactful experiences.

Candace is dedicated to creating safe, inclusive spaces where individuals affected by breast cancer can find encouragement, understanding, and practical support.

Focus: Building community, expanding access, and creating meaningful, supportive experiences.

Program Coordinator

Our Collective Commitment

Together, our team is committed to:

  • Empowering individuals with trustworthy education and real-world insight

  • Expanding access to emotional, practical, and peer support

  • Amplifying survivor stories and lived experience

  • Strengthening community partnerships across Hampton Roads

  • Building a future where no one faces breast cancer or reconstruction alone