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A New Hope for Veterans Facing Cancer

The Florida Society of Clinical Oncology (FLASCO) is taking significant steps to support veterans living with cancer through a groundbreaking initiative. Recognizing the unique challenges that veterans face when diagnosed with cancer, FLASCO is committed to offering educational resources and community support to help them navigate this difficult journey.

Understanding the Initiative

This initiative, known as the Veterans Living With Cancer program, aims to create a patient-centered environment where veterans can receive vital information and support tailored to their needs. Led by Amanda Bridges, Senior Director of Operations and Business Development at FLASCO, the program is deeply rooted in personal understanding. Bridges, married to a veteran, understands firsthand the complexities veterans encounter, especially when battling a disease such as cancer.

“Veterans are often fighting a second war,” Bridges states, highlighting that along with their military service-related health issues, they face cancer diagnoses. This initiative aims to provide these brave individuals with a comprehensive support system crucial for their treatment and recovery.

The Program's Backbone

For many years, no dedicated programs existed for veterans dealing with cancer. However, with the launch of the Veterans Living With Cancer program, FLASCO fills this significant gap. They offer free, one-day educational sessions in collaboration with respected organizations such as the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs and the American Cancer Society. Furthermore, partnerships with leading cancer treatment centers ensure that veterans benefit from the collective expertise of both VA and civilian oncologists.

Bridges emphasizes that programs like this can dramatically change the experience of patients often feeling isolated and overwhelmed following a cancer diagnosis. “By linking veterans to trusted resources and expert care, we equip them with not just information, but knowledge, hope, and a supportive community,” she says.

Bridging the Divide

This initiative is uniquely positioned to enhance the coordination of care between civilian and VA hospitals. It underscores the importance of collaboration within cancer treatment, allowing veterans to receive the best possible support from all available resources. Elevating awareness of the care offered by the VA Health System, the program seeks to foster trust and transparency, letting veterans know they are not alone in this journey.

The program's focus is not only on the care they receive but also on improving health outcomes by empowering veterans to take an active role in their treatment. By arming them with pertinent knowledge, the initiative encourages informed decision-making, enhancing patient confidence and potentially leading to better outcomes during their cancer journey.

Educational Sessions to Empower Veterans

The Veterans Living With Cancer program comprises various educational sessions designed specifically for veterans. These sessions cover commonly diagnosed cancers, including:

• - Living With a Hematologic Malignancy
• - Living With Prostate Cancer
• - Living With Breast Cancer
• - Living With Lung Cancer
• - Living With Colorectal Cancer
• - Living With Head & Neck Cancer
• - Living With GI/GU Cancer

Moreover, supplementary topics such as survivorship navigation, clinical trials, nutrition, and financial assistance will also be addressed. A unique “Ask the Experts” session will provide veterans with the opportunity to interact with specialists, asking questions and sharing concerns in real-time.

Join Us in Making an Impact

The Veterans Living With Cancer program is entirely free for participants, including breakfast, lunch, parking, and travel support for select individuals. The event is scheduled for August 16, 2025, at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center in Gainesville, FL, and it aims to gather veterans, their families, and caregivers for a day of learning and healing.

FLASCO invites individuals and organizations to share this valuable initiative with veterans who may significantly benefit from the support in their cancer journey. Together, through education and community connection, we can truly impact the lives of those who have bravely served our nation. For further details, contact Amanda Bridges by email.

By lifting up our veterans and providing them with the resources they need, FLASCO is making strides towards a healthier and more informed community of cancer survivors.