On September 25th, 2021, the Anal Cancer Foundation held the first virtual Anal Cancer Patient Conference. Recordings of the day's events are now available on YouTube.
Medical professionals spoke about anal cancer causes, treatments, and how to mitigate the various side effects of chemoradiation. We also heard from advocates who taught us, through sharing their own stories, how to use our personal experiences to advance the fight against anal cancer. Finally, thrivers were able to network both in groups and one-on-one which, for many people, was the first time they were meeting a fellow thriver.
We created this event as an opportunity for anal cancer patients and caregivers to learn from medical professionals, connect with experts and each other, and take action to empower themselves and this community.
Over 440 people registered for the conference from 20 countries around the world. Feedback from participants included that, “this is, without doubt, one of the finest virtual conferences I've ever attended, personal and professional -- and I've attended a lot!,” “thank you for this conference. It provided me with a lot of information and more confidence to share my own story and help others become more aware of this disease,” and “superb conference - so informative and deeply touching! Really, thank you!”
Anal Cancer Foundation Co-Founder Justine Almada facilitated the day's events. Experts including Drs. Joel Palefsky, Cathy Eng, Karyn Goodman, and Paul Romesser spoke about anal cancer causes, treatments, emerging therapies, and how to mitigate the various side effects of chemoradiation. Thrivers were given the opportunity to ask questions live, as well as to connect with one another. Anal Cancer Thriver and Activist Marcia Cross and Cervivor's Tamika Felder shared their own stories, guiding the audience in how to use their personal experiences to advance the fight against anal cancer.
We would like to make sure every family facing anal cancer has access to the same information as their doctors. Please view the presentations, share with others, and send us any feedback you may have.
Some suggested language for sharing on social media:
The first #AnalCancer patient conference on September 25th was a day full of learning, connection, and advocating with @HPVAnalCancer. View the day’s presentations, from experts and thrivers alike, and help us keep the momentum going!
On Sept 25th, I attended the first #AnalCancer patient conference with @HPVAnalCancer. I learned from experts in the field and connected with fellow thrivers. Now, you can too! Check out the videos from the day and help us #EndTheStigma!
Help support more community knowledge-sharing! Learn more about how you can connect and act on behalf of yourself and the entire anal cancer community.
Comments? Questions? Please get in touch!
