Archive Results

From Melanoma to Helping Others

Back in 2003, when Amy was treated for melanoma, the internet was a chaotic mess of information. Her diagnosis inspired her to help others better understand their options.

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Categories: Patient Stories, Philanthropy & Volunteering




A Warrior Decides to Fight

Heather is a dedicated mom, a loving wife and a cancer warrior. Heather decided early on in her fight with colon cancer that she would wage an all-out war against the disease. With her friends and family by her side, she has written an online journal, raised money through the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life and focused her energy on “living, surviving and thriving.”

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Categories: Movement & Vitality, Patient Stories




Helping Others Is Important

Ellen spent her career as a teacher until a brain tumor meant she could no longer spend every day in the classroom. It was important and meaningful for her to continue to take care of others, so she began making small, hand-sewn pillows for members of her community.

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Categories: Creative Expression, Patient Stories




The Duty of the Cure

Jonny battled testicular cancer at age 26. After undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, Jonny’s disease relapsed, which meant more therapy. Through it all, he was eager to talk to someone who had been down a similar road. After he finished treatment, he founded Imerman Angels, a non-profit organization that provides one-on-one support among cancer patients and caregivers. In recognition of his work, Jonny was recognized as a 2012 CNN Hero.

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Categories: Patient Stories, Philanthropy & Volunteering




Podcast Trailer

Seize the Days is a podcast dedicated to capturing the profound ways individuals find meaning, joy, and purpose following a cancer diagnosis. Hosted by scientist and storyteller Cathy Becker alongside oncologist and researcher Dr. Evan Lipson, the series bridges the gap between clinical medicine and the vital human experience of making the most of every day.

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Category: Podcast




Even Cancer Patients Need Romance

Chris is a three-time cancer survivor. He and his wife Jenny founded “Romance for a Cure”, an organization that raises money for cancer research by selling cookies, cakes and other treats every Valentines Day. Or, as Chris calls it, ” a bake sale on steroids”.

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Categories: Patient Stories, Philanthropy & Volunteering




Treatment Inspires Art

When artist Maria spent time in the hospital with her father-in-law, Shapour, during his cancer treatments, she was inspired by the drops of chemotherapy medicine falling inside of his IV bottle. She imagined the fluid mixing with his blood and later created a series of paintings called, “Infusions.” She calls the paintings a gift from her father-in-law. “It was a release for me,” she says. “Art has been a good friend of mine.”

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Categories: Creative Expression, Patient Stories




A Disaster Volunteer Learns to Appreciate the Simple Challenges in Life

Margot was diagnosed with a rare blood cancer. She learned to appreciate the mundane challenges of mothering teenagers.

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Category: Patient Stories




A Patient Becomes an Educator

Donald was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. For him, that gave presented the opportunity to take more chances.

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Categories: Patient Stories, Philanthropy & Volunteering




Celebrating the Time With Her Children

Janina is 36 and has been diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. She participates in research studies and has an unusual treatment plan. She has learned to appreciate life and spending time with her children. She addresses middle school students about cancer and children with cancer. She advises always ask questions, take an active part in treatment, and join a support group.

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Categories: Patient Stories, Spiritual & Reflection