ASCO's Survivorship Committee

Yesterday I was in Washington, D.C. to participate in the inaugural meeting of ASCO's Cancer Survivorship Committee. [ASCO is the American Society of Clinical Oncology.] While the specifics of the meeting are confidential, I'd like to share two things:

First, something to keep in mind: In the modern clinician's world of oncology, "survivorship" often refers to all the issues of post-treatment survival.

I know this is confusing because a survivor is defined as "from the moment of discovery and for the balance of life." On this blog, unless I specify otherwise when talking about "survivorship," I, too, mean from the moment of diagnosis on.

I just thought you should have the heads-up, so you can be alert to the different possible meanings when writers or speakers talk about "survivorship."

Second, I thought I'd share how humbling and inspiring it was to be among this small group of highly skilled and experienced professionals dedicated to the shared mission of improving the health -- in every sense of the word -- of post-treatment survivors. 

This is one more example of behind-the-scenes efforts by uber-busy professionals who are volunteering their time, energy and expertise to help others. To help you. I just felt you should know.  

 

Comments

[Janice Delgado]

Wendy, Thank you so much for your wonderful web site and for sharing this info on the ASCO Survivorhip Committee. I just came back tonight from a cancer support group meeting. We watched a great 17 minute video called "From Cancer Patient to Cancer Survivor: Lost in Transition" (this is available on youtube or google video). It brought up challenges that go with cancer treatment and gave our group the opportunity to have an open and healing discussion with our members. Some are still undergoing treatment and others have finished and are dealing with post treatment health and emotional issues. The bright spot was when a 5 year survivor encouraged everyone to not lose hope-you can heal in spite of issues and learn to find joy in living again. I am pleased that ASCO is helping to address what can often be complex and on going health issues for so many cancer patients.

[jonnie hickman]

Thank you so much Dr Wendy, it is so wonderful to know there are skilled professionals like you working to make the lives of "SURVIVORS" a happier place. Like I said, you have blessed me.

Jonnie

[Jody Schoger]

Wendy,
I'm thrilled that the committee will benefit from your experience and wisdom. There are so many issues that we "know" as survivors that haven't made it into medical practice. YET. I know you will help change the picture.
Warm regards,
Jody