Blog

Our blog covers a wide range of topics to help support, inspire, and inform members of our community, including those who have been personally impacted by cancer. Use the search filters below to find blog posts on topics that are important to you, from wellness tips, advocacy & policy news, and cancer research findings to stories and insights shared by patients, survivors, and caregivers.

Justin and Kelly laugh together during an evening out with friends in 2008
Read November 8, 2022

Lessons Learned: The Importance of Self-care When Caregiving

In 2007, Kelly unexpectedly became a caregiver when her husband, Justin, was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. "At 27 years old and having been married for only 3 months, I felt completely unequipped to take on the title of caregiver," she writes. "I was just getting used to being a 'Mrs.' and signing a new last name. Life was supposed to just be beginning for Justin and me." Keep reading to learn more about Kelly's story and some vital lessons she learned that are important for every caregiver to know.
Lotus flower on pond with lily pads
Read November 3, 2022

Spotlight on Mental Health: Let’s Talk About Cancer Support and Why It’s Critical

Nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults lives with a mental illness. Factor in the stress of a cancer diagnosis, and the numbers become even more concerning. To help address these urgent concerns, we’ve been busy expanding our support programs and services with new, innovative offerings. We share more in this blog, which kicks off a new series on mental health and cancer.
A woman gently rests her hand on a man's shoulder in a comforting way
Read October 25, 2022

Regular People Doing Extraordinary Things: Cancer Caregivers Need Support

The demands of caregiving can be hard physically, financially, and emotionally. All these factors put caregivers at risk for substantial distress that can impact their quality of life and physical and mental health. To help address caregivers’ needs, CSC created a web-based distress screening, referral, and support program for family caregivers and anyone who is a care partner for someone living with cancer. “The number-one feedback we get is that there’s no other program out there like this right now,” says CSC’s Vice President of Research Alexandra Zaleta, Ph.D. Read on to learn more.
A senior woman stands at a pharmacy counter showing a female pharmacist her prescription
Read October 14, 2022

Here’s What Patients Need to Know About Laboratory Benefit Managers and Pharmacy Benefit Managers

Have you ever arrived at a laboratory or pharmacy with your doctor's order for lab work or a prescription, only to be denied the test or your prescribed medication? Each insurance plan has different benefits and coverage guidelines. Benefit managers determine these guidelines. Keep reading to learn how laboratory and pharmacy benefit managers can impact your insurance benefits and coverage.
A diverse group of women smiling in jackets outdoors with their arms around one another
Read October 6, 2022

Breast Cancer Awareness: Let’s Talk Screening, Survivorship & Support

In the United States, mammography has helped reduce breast cancer mortality by nearly 40% since 1990. Many women have shared their own stories about the key role routine screening played in their breast cancer diagnosis, leading to timely treatment. To mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we share a few of those stories here. If you are living with breast cancer or are a caregiver to someone with breast cancer, we also share resources that can help ease the burden of your journey.
Michael Kolodziej, M.D., smiles in a sunlit interior wearing glasses and a collared shirt
Read September 15, 2022

Advocate Spotlight: Michael Kolodziej, M.D.

As part of our Advocate Spotlight series, we are highlighting Michael Kolodziej, M.D., who is passionate about ensuring that cancer patients receive the best possible care. “If we keep the patient as our North Star, we will succeed," he says. Read on to learn about Dr. Kolodziej, his background in cancer care, and how cancer advocacy has played a role throughout his career.
CSC’s CEO Debbie Weir introduces White House Cancer Moonshot Coordinator Danielle Carnival, PhD, during CSC's annual leadership conference
Read September 9, 2022

White House Cancer Moonshot Coordinator Shares Progress & Priorities

From the very beginning, CSC has been a dedicated partner and go-to resource for the Cancer Moonshot, the White House initiative to drive urgent progress against cancer. Cancer Moonshot Coordinator Danielle Carnival, Ph.D., recognized CSC’s contributions during a recent conference for our network partner leaders. We share highlights from Dr. Carnival’s presentation, including a call to action that you, your friends, and loved ones may be able to answer.
Amber smiles while standing on a sidewalk in front of a leafy green tree in the summer sunshine
Read August 30, 2022

A Brave August

“August, you get me every time. It’s that time of year…when my trauma triggers fire nonstop.” In the final installment of her blog series, Amber Havekost reflects on the difficult August, 5 years ago, when an advanced-stage cancer diagnosis changed her life. “Anniversary dates are complex,” she writes. “Some are amazing but now also tainted by pain. Some we wish to forget but then, if we do, what else would have to be forgotten?”