I am thrilled to share my experience of being invited to speak at the National Congress of Medical Oncology opening ceremony. This prestigious event brings together experts, researchers, and patient advocates dedicated to advancing cancer care. As one of the patient advocates, it was an honour to present alongside such a distinguished group, highlighting a resource close to my heart: My DiCE Companion.

Introducing My DiCE Companion

During my presentation, I focused on My DiCE Companion, a uniquely valuable resource designed to guide patients through the complexities of digestive cancers. This tool offers critical information and support, empowering patients to understand their condition better and collaborate effectively with their healthcare providers.

To ensure that every attending oncologist and expert could explore this resource firsthand, we placed a printed My DiCE Companion flyer on each of the 200 seats at the venue. The flyer included a scannable code for easy access to the app, allowing attendees to dive deeper into its features and capabilities.

A Flourishing Interest

The response to the My DiCE Companion was overwhelming. The app’s potential to enhance patient care intrigued many oncologists specialising in digestive cancers. Several requested further meetings to discuss ways to integrate My DiCE Companion into their practices, signalling a promising step towards broader adoption.

Acknowledging the Human Journey

Beyond the technological advancements and innovative treatments, the human journey remains at the heart of effective cancer care. My participation in the SNOMR Congress highlighted the critical importance of understanding patient experiences. This approach is vital for ensuring that survivors not only overcome their battles with cancer but also have the opportunity to build fulfilling lives, including the families they desire.

A Personal Mission

My involvement in this Congress underscores the growing recognition of patient journeys as a critical aspect of cancer care. By raising awareness and advocating for improved support, she is helping to ensure that cancer survivors have the opportunity to build the families they desire.

As I continue my advocacy work, I am committed to championing tools and initiatives like My DiCE Companion that empower patients and enhance their journeys through cancer and beyond. I believe that by working together—patients, healthcare providers, and advocates alike—we can create a future where cancer care is more comprehensive, compassionate, and informed by the diverse experiences of those affected.

Author:
Alina Comanescu