National cancer groups host free forim Sept. 28

By Andrea Butler
Massey Cancer Center

EVENT:      VCU's Massey Cancer Center, the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, and the Lance Armstrong Foundation will host a free public forum on palliative care, a fast-growing form of care for people with life-limiting illnesses.

Palliative care draws upon a wide variety of practitioners to address the spiritual, emotional and physical symptoms of chronic and/or terminal illnesses. It can include pain management, legal and financial advice, spiritual and psychological counseling, massage therapy and many other forms of patient support.

FORMAT:   The forum includes a reception, brief presentations from cancer and healthcare experts, and a question and answer session.

WHO:    Speakers include:

* Ellen Stovall, president and CEO, National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship
* Gordon Ginder, M.D., director, Massey Cancer Center
* Tom Smith, M.D., director, Thomas Palliative Care Unit, Massey Cancer Center
* Sherman Baker, M.D., medical director, hematology oncology clinics, Massey Cancer Center
* Randy Axelrod, M.D., vice president and general manager of healthcare management, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
* Julia Rowland, Ph.D., director, National Cancer Institute Office of Cancer Survivorship
* High Anxiety, a therapy dog from Massey's palliative care unit

WHEN:   Tuesday, Sept. 28
            6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

WHERE: VCU Student Commons
            Richmond Salon
            907 Floyd Ave., Richmond

Free parking is available at the Main Street deck, located on Main and Cherry Streets, one block from the VCU campus. 

RSVP requested at 804-828-0883.