CategoriesCancer Awareness Months Understanding CancerCancer is difficult at any age—but for adolescents and young adults (AYA), the journey presents unique and often overlooked challenges. Defined as individuals between the ages of 15 and 39, AYA cancer patients occupy a transitional phase of life where independence is forming, identities are being shaped, and futures are just beginning to take root. […]
Understanding a Rare and Aggressive Childhood Cancer When cancer is discussed, the focus is often on more common types such as breast, lung, or colon cancer. However, there are rare cancers that affect small populations—many of them children—and these diagnoses deserve equal attention. One such cancer is Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a rare and aggressive form of […]
CategoriesCancer Awareness Months Understanding CancerJune is National Cancer Survivor Month—a time to recognize the strength, courage, and resilience of the more than 18 million cancer survivors living in the United States today. At Byrd Cancer Foundation, we believe every survivor story matters. Whether you’re a survivor, a caregiver, or honoring a loved one, your voice has the power to […]
When we think about life-saving cancer treatments, breakthrough medications, or cutting-edge therapies, we often forget what makes them possible: clinical trials. These research studies are the foundation of medical progress. They test the safety and effectiveness of new drugs, procedures, and interventions before they become widely available. But here’s a critical truth — not all […]
Pancreatic cancer originates in the pancreas, an essential organ for digestion and blood sugar regulation. It is one of the deadliest cancers, with a five-year survival rate of less than 11%. This grim statistic is largely due to its silent progression and late detection. Symptoms, such as jaundice, back pain, and unintended weight loss, often […]
Gastric cancer, or stomach cancer, develops in the lining of the stomach. It often progresses silently, with symptoms like bloating, heartburn, and nausea being attributed to common gastrointestinal issues. As the disease advances, patients may experience more concerning symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing, persistent abdominal pain, and unintended weight loss. By the time symptoms become […]
Carcinoid cancer, a subset of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), originates in hormone-producing cells of the body. These tumors commonly form in the gastrointestinal tract (stomach, intestines, and appendix) or the lungs, though they can occur in other areas such as the pancreas or ovaries. Despite its rarity, this cancer poses significant challenges because of its slow-growing […]
Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer worldwide. It starts in the lungs and can spread to other areas of the body if not treated early. With advances in diagnosis and treatment, there is a greater chance of managing lung cancer and improving outcomes. Let’s dive into the causes, […]
CategoriesCancer Cancer Awareness Monthshttps://youtu.be/DecxrnIOhIE For the remarkable souls who shone with their light,Who walked among us, fierce and bright,Each heart a beacon, each voice a song,Their spirit a place where we all belong. They graced us with courage, steadfast and true,Through days that were heavy, skies dimmed to blue.With hands reaching out and hearts open wide,They taught us […]
CategoriesCancer Cancer Awareness MonthsJanique Rivera-McGriff’s story is both powerful and inspiring. Diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) at just 29 years old, she has faced and conquered cancer three times. Now at 36, Janique continues to share her message of self-advocacy, reminding others that they are not just statistics but individuals with the power to take charge […]
