CategoriesGenetics and Cancer Understanding CancerCancer is a word that touches many families. Whether it is a parent, grandparent, sibling, aunt, uncle, or cousin, most people know someone who has been affected by the disease. While not every cancer diagnosis is inherited, understanding your family’s health history can play an important role in protecting your health and the health of […]
CategoriesCancer News Understanding CancerThe Byrd Cancer Education and Advocacy Foundation recently attended the RISE UP for Breast Cancer and Women’s Health Conference in San Francisco, a national gathering that brought together researchers, clinicians, and advocates to explore the future of breast cancer prevention and women’s health. What emerged from this experience was a clear and consistent message that […]
CategoriesCancer News Understanding CancerTriple negative breast cancer (TNBC) has historically been one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat forms of breast cancer. Unlike other breast cancer types, TNBC does not have estrogen, progesterone, or HER2 receptors — which means many common targeted therapies are not effective. However, treatment options have expanded significantly in recent years. According to research […]
When adolescents and young adults (AYA) are diagnosed with cancer, the emotional and mental impact can be just as overwhelming as the physical journey. Between navigating treatment, relationships, identity, and the fear of missing out on major life milestones, AYA patients often feel misunderstood or invisible. That’s where Elephants and Tea comes in. Founded by […]
A cancer diagnosis is never easy—but for adolescents and young adults (AYA), the experience can be particularly isolating. Often too old for pediatric services and too young for traditional adult care, young people diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 39 are frequently underserved, overlooked, and under-resourced. Stupid Cancer, a national nonprofit organization, is working […]
The Dear Jack Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life and emotional well-being of adolescents and young adults (AYA) diagnosed with cancer. Founded by musician Andrew McMahon, a leukemia survivor himself, the foundation focuses on the specific challenges faced by patients between the ages of 15 and 39. Young […]
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 […]
