What do you want people to know during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month?
Cancer is the leading cause of disease-related deaths in children. Childhood cancer not only affects the child but also the family; emotionally, physically, and financially. Continued research is vital for improving survival rates and discovering less toxic treatments for pediatric cancers. Despite this, only 4% of the federal government’s cancer research budget goes to pediatric cancer research.
What do you want people to know about your specialty?
As a pediatric neuro-oncologist, taking care of pediatric and adolescent brain tumor patients is incredibly rewarding due to the remarkable resilience and strength that these young patients display. Despite the challenges they face, including the emotional, physical, and cognitive impacts of their diagnoses and treatments, children and adolescents consistently demonstrate an inspiring ability to adapt and persevere. Their capacity for hope, combined with their ability to recover from setbacks, creates a unique and deeply fulfilling experience for those of us in this specialty.