Vanaty Black
Six years ago, Vanaty Black was in a fight for her life.
At just 25 years old, Black had been diagnosed with
stage 2 breast cancer. “I was shocked and worried for
my husband and children,” says Black. What followed
were eight rounds of chemotherapy and 36 rounds
of radiation. “In addition to the chemo and radiation, I
had both breasts removed, as well as two lymph nodes
under my right arm,” adds Black. As a preventative
measure against ovarian cancer, Black also underwent
surgery to have her ovaries removed.
BEAUTIES WHO MEAN BUSINESS
In addition to Black’s physical challenges, the family
endured financial challenges. “My income provided
the main source of support and I was unable to work
because of the radiation and chemo,” says Black. “We
were faced with unexpected bills that the insurance did
not cover, and travel costs to see my doctors in Chicago
at Cancer Centers of America.” The family eventually
had to downsize to a smaller home in order to manage
their financial situation.
Peace, comfort — and a business?
In spite of everything that was going on, Black found
peace and comfort baking cakes and cupcakes. Baking
allowed her to bond with her two children and focus on
something else besides her illness. She also discovered
that she had a real passion for baking. “I started baking
cakes and cupcakes for friends, family, holidays and
other events,” she says.
Black soon turned her passion into a business and
Whipped KC was born. Based in Kansas City, Mo., Black
makes all kinds of cakes and cupcakes. Some customer
favorites include her chocolate cake and berry blueberry
vanilla cake.
“The blueberries just explode in your
mouth,” describes Black. “People who
don’t like blueberries really like this
cake.”
VANATYBLACK
Today, Black is healthy. “I thank God that I won the war
with cancer,” she says. She credits prayer and having
strong support with helping her cope with her disease
and treatment. She also recommends that patients keep
a journal, as she did, and talk regularly to family and
friends about what they are going through.
A PA S S I O N I S B O R N I N T H E M I D S T O F A S T O R M
Whipped KC provides catering services and Black is
planning to open a store next year. “I am looking to take
Whipped KC to the next level and I am excited,” she
says. Visit and like her page on Facebook view some of
her delectable treats.
You can email Black to order or book
Whipped KC for your upcoming event at
[email protected].
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