First and foremost, I would like to thank all of you who have donated to support the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute! I am blessed to have such a wonderful group of people supporting me on this journey. You have all made a difference in getting us one step closer to the cure!
A wonderful friend of mine from Nashville is involved with cancer research for her career. She has written the following tidbit to share with you all...
"Cancer research is a phrase thrown around during most philanthropic events, but rarely anyone thinks about the people involved in the research. Our aspect of the research is oncology clinical trials; I work as a data analyst for oncology clinical trials at a major university medical center, which is also one of 21 National Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the United States. In my position I analyze lab values from the blood work of patients on clinical trials. These clinical trials are the future of treatment in a wide range of cancer types, however participants enroll on these trials because they have had little success with traditional treatments. Their participation not only tries to rid them of their cancer, but also makes strides in future treatments.
While I absolutely love my choice of careers, oncology clinical trials can be very challenging mentally; as an analyst I am assigned specific trials and I follow the patients from the point in which they enroll on a trial to their death. On a daily basis I am immersed in my patients treatment, yet I never meet them; I know their medical and personal history inside and out, but they have no idea that I'm involved in their care. If they pass away, I read all the condolences in their charts and say a silent prayer for their family, some days this happens more than once.
Cancer research with interaction with patients requires a very particular person, but I know each and every one of my colleagues is committed to do our part in finding cures for all cancer types. Even a small donation to Sarah's cause will help make progress towards this goal."
I am so honored to run on behalf of those patients and families who have struggled throughout their treatment. With the help of all of you, we can make a significant impact in funding different cancer research studies to help turn more of these stories into positive ones.
On a training note, today marked my second double-digit run in which I logged 16 miles. It was a beautiful day here and I was able to go explore some parts of the city I haven't seen before. The extra motivation having all of this support behind me has been tremendous!
Wishing you all a wonderful week!
-S
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