One of the cancer organizations I most admire is Stand Up to Cancer. They've changed the search for a cure for cancer. Their mission is to build collaborate teams of top researchers who work together to advance discoveries and treatments much more quickly than in the past. They've also done a great job of pulling together media giants and the entertainment industry to get more public support behind their work.
This week Stand Up to Cancer chose my personal story to feature on their blog and Facebook page. As someone with a rare cancer I rarely see mine included in these types of endeavors, so it was both a surprise and an honor, for which I am grateful. They also mentioned EmpowHER which I also appreciated. Here's the text:
Posted on January 13, 2011 9:36 AM
This week's With You We Stand features stories from our Facebook supporters.
Thank you to everyone who shared their amazing story with us and became part of our community on su2c.org.
Pat Elliott
Pat Elliott says of her battle with cancer that she was, "born to tell you her story." Her birthday, September 22nd, falls on Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) Awareness Day, and her own battle with CML is one she will never forget. From the beginning of her diagnosis Pat shared her experience through blogs, and online forums. Today, Pat also provides volunteer support for national and international patient advocacy groups and works as the Cancer Guide for the women's health website, EmpowHER.com. "Through these forums I've met CML patients from around the world" she says. "When you have a rare cancer it can be hard to find accurate information and it's extremely important to learn from fellow patients, and to share what you know too." Her experience as a cancer survivor, journalist and healthcare executive has enabled her to be a strong advocate for herself and others around the world battling this disease. "Before my diagnosis I had never even heard of CML," says Elliott. "But, now I'm happy to spend my birthdays, and every day, helping others learn about this rare cancer."
See the full post at http://bit.ly/hCGfQv