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Home > Cancer Disparities Progress Report Survivors > Survivors 2026

The goal of cancer research is to save, extend, and enhance the lives of patients with cancer. These cancer survivors have generously shared their stories to highlight how cancer science and medicine is transforming patient care.

Talking About Gaps in Early-onset Colon Cancer Care

Janaylon Wright

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Talking About Gaps in Early-onset Colon Cancer Care

Charting a Clearer Path for Ultra-rare Cancers

Sebastián (Sebas) Casaus Natale

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Charting a Clearer Path for Ultra-rare Cancers

Closing Resource Gaps for Young Adults With Cancer

Vanessa Bañuelos

Mosier, Oregon

Closing Resource Gaps for Young Adults With Cancer

Advocating for Competent Care for LGBTQIA+ Patients

Mikey Shock

Chicago, Illinois

Advocating for Competent Care for LGBTQIA+ Patients

Expanding Access to Care in Tribal Communities

Melanie R. Stewart

Charles City, Virginia

Expanding Access to Care in Tribal Communities

Understanding the Importance of Representation in Research

Alejandro (Alex) Valdez

Pico Rivera, California

Understanding the Importance of Representation in Research

Openly Discussing Hepatitis B Infection in the Asian Community

Alan Wang

Turlock, California

Openly Discussing Hepatitis B Infection in the Asian Community

Turning Diagnosis Into a Lifelong Mission to Save Lives

Pastor Rhonda Holbert and Freddie Muse Jr

Inglewood, California | Los Angeles, California

Turning Diagnosis Into a Lifelong Mission to Save Lives

Overcoming Great Distances to Receive Care

Dennis P. Gruenhagen

Storm Lake, Iowa

Overcoming Great Distances to Receive Care