Beating Burnout: Self-Care Strategies for Patient Advocates
As patient advocates we are highly motivated to make things better for others. Our commitment and passion for the work we do can lead us to take on more activities…
Putting the Human Back in Healthcare
I recently listened to one of my favorite podcasts, “What Should I Read Next.” The premise of the podcast is the host, Anne Bogel, chats with a guest about their…
How Do You Deal With Cancer Guilt?
It may come as a surprise to those who have not experienced cancer to learn that many cancer survivors suffer a form of “survivor guilt.” Survivor guilt is most often…
Before You Share Your Cancer Diagnosis at Work
When Marybeth heard the word “cancer” she felt like the floor had fallen out from under her. She had a million questions. So many, in fact, she was too overwhelmed…
Facing Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Notes from a Survivor
In the spring of 2016, I was looking forward to a final year of teaching sociology before a retirement promising new adventures. I felt great and had no reason to…
What Not to Say When You Don’t Know What to Say
We don’t always talk much about how to talk to each other when illness comes calling. People tend to feel awkward and uncomfortable, often blurting out words that are meant…
Deceived But Not Defeated
I never felt any symptoms. I mean, I was tired, but what young 20-something who had just started graduate school while maintaining a full time job wouldn’t be? It happened…
Words Matter: Why Cancer Isn’t a Game of Winners or Losers
Are you “battling” cancer? Do you know someone who has “lost their fight” with the disease and died? It seems whenever we hear a story about someone with cancer, war…
The Restorative Power of Music
Music has always been a universal language with the power to heal, restore and challenge an individual. The history of music dates back to the beginning of civilization and music…
Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs)
Patient Assistance Programs: A Guide for Patients Cancer is costly. Each year, it costs $180 billion in health care expenses and loss of productivity, says the American Cancer Society. For…
Patient Participation in Research: Towards Meaningful Engagement
“If patient engagement were a drug, it would be the blockbuster drug of the century and malpractice not to use it.” Leonard Kish Have you detected a recent upsurge in…
Tips on Finding a New Job or Changing Career after Cancer Treatment
In this three-part series, I’ve been exploring different aspects of returning (or continuing) to work after a cancer diagnosis. So far I’ve tackled issues from preparing to return to work…