Connecting Science, Advocacy, and Action
The past two weeks have been an inspiring journey across four gatherings, each reinforcing the collective drive to accelerate precision medicine and strengthen the global cancer patient voice.
Illumina GOAL Summit: The Power of Genomics and Advocacy
The week before this busy stretch began, I had the privilege of participating in the Genomics in Oncology Advocacy Leaders (GOAL) Summit hosted by Illumina at their offices in San Diego. The event brought together patient advocates from across the United States to explore how genomics is transforming cancer care and what it means for those we represent.
Just as valuable as learning about genomics was the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues in different disease areas on how to effectively communicate these critical messages to the patient and healthcare provider communities.
FT3: Advancing Precision Medicine Together
In Berlin, From Testing to Targeted Treatments (FT3) meetings held three critical sessions in advance of ESMO's annual scientific meeting. The Community of Practice, Strategic Advisory Board, and Board of Directors meetings all reminded me of how far we have come in building a global community with local impact.
These gatherings brought together experts, advocates, and industry partners to align on solutions that connect testing to treatment and ensure every patient can benefit from biomarker-driven care, no matter where they live.
Global Cancer Coalitions Network x Ipsen: Centering the Patient Voice
Immediately following FT3, I had the honor of representing the Global Cancer Coalitions Network (GCCN) at a collaborative event with Ipsen. The discussion focused on shared decision-making and the power of patient coalitions to drive change, influence policy, and ensure that innovations reach those who need them most. It was energizing to see how collaboration across disease areas can strengthen the collective voice of patients worldwide. Stay tuned for the GCCN report that we will issue before the end of 2025.
ESMO 2025: Hope Through Innovation and Connection
Last, but not least was ESMO, the European Society for Medical Oncology's annual meeting. I attended scientific sessions, connected with advocates from around the world and met with our industry partners. This year’s research updates in lung, breast, and gastrointestinal cancers offered tremendous hope. Each breakthrough, regardless of tumor type, reminds us that progress in one area benefits us all. A personal highlight was having dinner with three GCCA member organizations: Nest of Hope from Nigeria, Bowel Matters from the United Kingdom, and Zav Menia from Israel. We exchanged insights on opportunities and challenges in our regions and reflected on how, at the heart of it all, we share a common mission to prevent the needless suffering and loss caused by colorectal cancer.
Moving Forward
Weeks like these reaffirm why collaboration is essential to progress. From scientific innovation to patient advocacy, every connection and shared experience brings us closer to a world where every person with cancer has access to timely testing, targeted treatments, and a future filled with hope.