National Cancer Survivor Month and a Legacy of Learning

June is National Cancer Survivor Month. I am so happy if you are reading this article as a cancer survivor–someone living with cancer–or are part of the base of support for a survivor. These recognition days or months can be hard for those of us whose loved ones have passed away, but recently so many things have shown me that my husband Jimmy still happens to be reaching into my life in beautiful ways.

Jim was a member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors (I.U.E.C.). His work life was demanding. There were a lot of safety rules that had to be followed. There had to be effective communication and teamwork and also personal confidence and strong decision making skills. Jim supported and relied on his union family, and the union believes in taking care of one another. In that spirit, his union chapter, I.U.E.C., Local 18, donated the funds to start the Healing NET Virtual Neuroendocrine Cancer Tumor Board.

This is a program for medical professionals to learn from one another. Physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, and other medical professionals are invited to attend if their work includes caring for those with neuroendocrine cancer. Providers can present a case in an online multidisciplinary tumor board led by experienced clinicians and discussed with colleagues from across the country. The benefits are across the board. Although patients cannot attend, patients from across the country will benefit as the medical professionals exchange ideas from their different experiences, disciplines and approaches. Their level of knowledge and dedication is awe-inspiring. These physicians work tirelessly, and the fact that they can enjoy a sense of community in the tumor board is really important. Jim would always ask all of his doctors from different states to talk to one another, so I feel Jim is close by when there is a professional and passionate discussion on a case. This gift from the union is making one of Jim’s dreams a reality.

I would like to personally thank the I.U.E.C, Local 18, for their donation and Dr. Eric Liu and Healing NET for starting this amazing program. Being a part of launching this program has given me peace and pride. I feel connected not just to Jim during these meetings but to all patients and caregivers. Even though the reminders of Jim not being here to hug during National Cancer Survivor Month are hard to ignore, it is tangible to me how he lives on in his friends, his union and my work here at HNF. He lives on through the stories I hear from his union brothers and sisters. He shines through my children's eyes and the tone of their voices. There is a sense of his beautiful energy in my life. May you all feel your own importance during this month and the importance of your loved ones that have passed but are still remembered and shaping our world.