Luminis Health to Host Breast Cancer Survivor Christine Handy for Film Screening and Panel Discussion March 3

Annapolis, MD — Luminis Health’s Geaton and JoAnn Decesaris Cancer Institute will host breast cancer survivor, author and advocate Christine Handy for an inspiring community event on March 3 at 5:30 p.m. at the Doordan Institute on the campus of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis. The free event will feature a screening of the acclaimed film Hello Beautiful, followed by a live Q&A with Handy and a panel of Luminis Health experts.

Hello Beautiful is a character-driven drama that follows Willow Boutrous as she navigates love, identity and self-worth after a breast cancer diagnosis. Based on Handy’s memoir, the film shifts the focus from illness to survivorship, exploring the emotional and relational impact of diagnosis and treatment.

“Hello Beautiful shines a light on what it really means to be a patient,” said Christine Handy. “It offers breast cancer doctors and the medical community a powerful glimpse into the emotional reality of treatment—reminding us that breast cancer affects the whole family, not just the person diagnosed. Understanding starts with listening.” 

Handy’s personal journey inspired the story. A former professional model, including work with Victoria’s Secret, she draws on her experience navigating illness, identity and recovery to shape the film’s perspective, bringing an authentic voice to conversations about survivorship and life after diagnosis.

“Hello Beautiful is a powerful reminder that cancer care extends far beyond medical treatment,” said Dr. Young Joo Lee, medical director of Luminis Health’s Breast Medical Oncology.  “As oncologists, we focus on delivering the most advanced therapies available, but we also recognize the profound emotional and relational impact a diagnosis has on patients and their families. This film captures the resilience, vulnerability and humanity of survivorship in a way that truly resonates with both patients and providers.” 

The March 3 event at the Doordan Institute is free and open to the public. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with Handy and Luminis Health clinicians during the post-screening discussion, fostering meaningful dialogue about survivorship, identity and compassionate cancer care.

Wrabyn Boutique in Annapolis will host a welcome reception and fundraiser for Christine Handy on March 2 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Proceeds will benefit Luminis Health’s Geaton and JoAnn DeCesaris Cancer Institute.