Making the Most of More Time:
Stories of Survivorship
A KidneyCAN Town Hall Event
In a moderated discussion, patients reflect on their kidney cancer diagnosis, living fully, getting support, and making the most of their time.
➥ Missed the live webinar? Watch here!
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This event has already taken place, but you can watch the full video here and find the resources mentioned and linked in the chat listed below.
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Here are links to the resources for patients and caregivers mentioned in the program. Some resources were discussed by panelists, while others were brought up by attendees in the chat discussion.
More from the Panelists
Mental Health Resources
Connecting with Community
KidneyCAN’s SmartPatients Group
Katie’s Cancer Jams – Spotify Playlist by Katie Coleman
Support Groups for Patients & Caregivers
Communication Tips for Family and Friends
“When you have cancer, there’s so much pressure to go out and DO SOMETHING every day. Sometimes just existing and being happy is a good day. Take the win when you can!”
– Panelist Laura Esfeller
KidneyCAN thanks all who participated in this special Town Hall event, including Dr. Evan Hall for masterful moderation, and our panelists for sharing their stories and perspectives. Thank you as well to our patient and caregiver community for providing insights and resources in the chat and community social that followed the Town Hall.
Meet the Patient Panelists
ADAM STERN, M.D.
Psychiatrist,
Harvard Medical School
A distinguished psychiatrist at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Adam Stern’s journey took a twist when he transitioned from being a physician to a patient. Diagnosed with metastatic kidney cancer in 2018, he faced the challenge head-on and has spent the last five years undergoing multiple surgeries, ablations, and immunotherapy treatments to manage the disease.
Despite these hurdles, Adam returned to work full-time, pursued his passions in writing, cartooning, and podcasting, and celebrated the birth of his second child, who is now 2 1/2 years old.
Embodying resilience and optimism, he approaches each day with the determination to make the most of the time he’s been given and to position himself for good fortune. Adam attributes his perseverance to the exceptional care he has received and the unwavering support of his loving family.
Read more about Adam’s work here.
Laura Esfeller
Patient Advocate,
SWOG Cancer Research Network
Laura is a 35-year-old metastatic kidney cancer survivor and HLRCC patient who was diagnosed with kidney cancer at the age of 29. She is a writer, marketer, and cat fanatic. Laura loves the beach, music, traveling, and not having cancer. Born in Louisiana and now living in California, Laura is a statistical abnormality who fights for cures for kidney cancer.
Laura says cancer is “one big game of deception,” as it took years for doctors to diagnose her with kidney cancer. Her young age deceived them. Despite her cancer diagnosis, she maintains a positive outlook and is always candid about her struggles with the disease. Laura has undergone major surgery to remove her kidney and other organs, and has experienced multiple setbacks, including a diagnosis of metastatic kidney cancer. However, she has been in remission for six years, thanks in part to the Cabometyx drug, which she received through the through PAPMET/SWOG S1500 clinical trial.
In addition to her cancer advocacy work, Laura is also the Director of Marketing Services for the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in California, where she oversees the production, account services, and copywriting teams within the brand marketing organization. Despite her busy schedule, Laura is committed to fighting for cures for kidney cancer and raising awareness about AYA (adolescent and young adult) cancer. You can read more on Laura’s blog here.
Bryan Lewis
Co-Founder & President,
KidneyCAN
Bryan’s journey with kidney cancer began in the summer of 2007 when he was only 46 years old and a new father to one-year-old twins.
Despite the disease spreading beyond local lymph nodes, Bryan and his wife chose to undergo surgery, thanks to the recommendation of a doctor who believed in his chances due to his age and overall health. After an arduous 13-hour operation, a week in intensive care, and weeks of recovery, Bryan’s three-month scans were clear. Today, he continues to show no evidence of disease (NED).
In 2013, a spark of inspiration from a good friend ignited Bryan’s passion for kidney cancer advocacy and the pursuit of cures for others. Grateful for the unwavering support from his wife, family, friends, and his faith in God, Bryan is proud of KidneyCAN’s success in raising research funding for kidney cancer and the growing community of researchers committed to providing better treatment options for those still in need.
Read more about Bryan’s work here.
An informed patient is an empowered patient.
We at KidneyCAN know how challenging it can be to keep up with research developments and how they could impact your treatment options. We hope the ideas presented in our Town Hall help you as you work with your doctor to manage your care for kidney cancer.
If you’re looking to connect with more people who share your challenges and can offer support, check out our Smart Patients forum.
This event supported by:
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🎥 NEW VIDEO ALERT! Dive into the highlights of the KCRS23 meeting with Dr. Adam Stern, a #kidneycancer warrior, and Dr. Toni Choueiri from Dana-Farber, a leading voice in kidney cancer research. Discover why KCRS23 is a pivotal event in the kidney cancer community.
For an in-depth look at all the groundbreaking presentations, slides, and videos from KCRS23, visit: https://kcrs.kidneycan.org/kcrs23-presentations-video-slides/
Stay informed and be a part of the change in kidney cancer research!
#KCRS23 #KidneyCancerResearch
Sep 21
🎥 NEW VIDEO ALERT! Dive into the highlights of the KCRS23 meeting with Dr. Adam Stern, a #kidneycancer warrior, and Dr. Toni Choueiri from Dana-Farber, a leading voice in kidney cancer research. Discover why KCRS23 is a pivotal event in the kidney cancer community.
For an in-depth look at all the groundbreaking presentations, slides, and videos from KCRS23, visit: https://kcrs.kidneycan.org/kcrs23-presentations-video-slides/
Stay informed and be a part of the change in kidney cancer research!
#KCRS23 #KidneyCancerResearch
From coast to coast, our advocates made their voices heard! Over 100 passionate individuals joined us virtually this week, connecting with their representatives from the comfort of their homes.
Their message? The urgent need for #kidneycancer research funding.
Distance didn`t diminish our impact! In fact, it showcased our community`s resilience and adaptability. From living rooms to home offices, our advocates shared personal stories, presented data, and urged their reps to prioritize research for #RCC.
A massive thank you to every virtual advocate. Your dedication and commitment prove that we can come together to make a difference no matter where we are. 🌟💻
#AdvocacyDays #FundtheCure #VirtualAdvocacy #UnitedForResearch
Sep 20
From coast to coast, our advocates made their voices heard! Over 100 passionate individuals joined us virtually this week, connecting with their representatives from the comfort of their homes.
Their message? The urgent need for #kidneycancer research funding.
Distance didn`t diminish our impact! In fact, it showcased our community`s resilience and adaptability. From living rooms to home offices, our advocates shared personal stories, presented data, and urged their reps to prioritize research for #RCC.
A massive thank you to every virtual advocate. Your dedication and commitment prove that we can come together to make a difference no matter where we are. 🌟💻
#AdvocacyDays #FundtheCure #VirtualAdvocacy #UnitedForResearch
A behind-the-scenes look at the heart of advocacy in action! Our tireless advocates have been meeting face-to-face with decision-makers in DC, sharing personal stories and emphasizing the critical importance of #kidneycancer research funding.
Each photo captures a moment of collaboration, hope, and determination. These moments drive change, push boundaries, and remind us of the collective power we hold when we come together for a cause. Witness the change-makers in action!
Huge gratitude to our advocates for their unwavering commitment. Together, we`re shaping a brighter future for all affected by kidney cancer.
#AdvocacyDays #RCC #FundtheCure #KidneyCANOnTheHill #CancerResearch #AdvocacyInAction #TogetherForACure
Sep 20
A behind-the-scenes look at the heart of advocacy in action! Our tireless advocates have been meeting face-to-face with decision-makers in DC, sharing personal stories and emphasizing the critical importance of #kidneycancer research funding.
Each photo captures a moment of collaboration, hope, and determination. These moments drive change, push boundaries, and remind us of the collective power we hold when we come together for a cause. Witness the change-makers in action!
Huge gratitude to our advocates for their unwavering commitment. Together, we`re shaping a brighter future for all affected by kidney cancer.
#AdvocacyDays #RCC #FundtheCure #KidneyCANOnTheHill #CancerResearch #AdvocacyInAction #TogetherForACure
KidneyCAN in Action!
Scenes from a powerful week in DC! Our dedicated advocates took to Capitol Hill, navigating the halls of power and engaging in meaningful conversations with our representatives.
Their mission? To emphasize the urgent need for funding #kidneycancer research.
Every handshake, every story shared, and every office visited brings us one step closer to a future where kidney cancer is a thing of the past. Together, we`re not just making a statement; we`re making a difference.
Swipe to see the passion and commitment in action!
Thank you to all our advocates for being the voice of the kidney cancer community. Let`s keep the momentum going! #AdvocacyDay #RCC #FundtheCure #KidneyCANOnTheHill #CancerResearch
Sep 20
KidneyCAN in Action!
Scenes from a powerful week in DC! Our dedicated advocates took to Capitol Hill, navigating the halls of power and engaging in meaningful conversations with our representatives.
Their mission? To emphasize the urgent need for funding #kidneycancer research.
Every handshake, every story shared, and every office visited brings us one step closer to a future where kidney cancer is a thing of the past. Together, we`re not just making a statement; we`re making a difference.
Swipe to see the passion and commitment in action!
Thank you to all our advocates for being the voice of the kidney cancer community. Let`s keep the momentum going! #AdvocacyDay #RCC #FundtheCure #KidneyCANOnTheHill #CancerResearch
Standing tall in front of the Capitol Building, Kathleen champions the fight against #kidneycancer, inspired by the memory of her husband, Ken Moore, who passed in July 2021.
With the unwavering support of her children, Allison and Eric, Kathleen joins KidneyCAN today in urging Congress for:
✅ A $60 million appropriation for the #KCRP for FY24.
✅ $50.9 billion for the NIH, including a $9.988 billion appropriation for the NCI.
✅ Long-term #telehealth legislation.
✅ Sustainable funding for medical #research and ensuring the #patientvoice is central in legislative policy, especially in promoting diverse #clinicaltrial enrollment.
Together, we believe in a future with early detection, less toxic treatments, and ultimately, cures for kidney cancer.
#AdvocacyDays #KidneyCAN #AcceleratingCures #OneVoiceAgainstCancer
Sep 18
Standing tall in front of the Capitol Building, Kathleen champions the fight against #kidneycancer, inspired by the memory of her husband, Ken Moore, who passed in July 2021.
With the unwavering support of her children, Allison and Eric, Kathleen joins KidneyCAN today in urging Congress for:
✅ A $60 million appropriation for the #KCRP for FY24.
✅ $50.9 billion for the NIH, including a $9.988 billion appropriation for the NCI.
✅ Long-term #telehealth legislation.
✅ Sustainable funding for medical #research and ensuring the #patientvoice is central in legislative policy, especially in promoting diverse #clinicaltrial enrollment.
Together, we believe in a future with early detection, less toxic treatments, and ultimately, cures for kidney cancer.
#AdvocacyDays #KidneyCAN #AcceleratingCures #OneVoiceAgainstCancer
We’re off to our first #AdvocacyDays meetings on Capitol Hill!
Today we ask Congress to fund #kidneycancer research through the CDMRP and National Institutes of Health.
With 40 people per day losing their lives to this terrible disease, our mission is urgent.
#AcceleratingCures
Sep 18
We’re off to our first #AdvocacyDays meetings on Capitol Hill!
Today we ask Congress to fund #kidneycancer research through the CDMRP and National Institutes of Health.
With 40 people per day losing their lives to this terrible disease, our mission is urgent.
#AcceleratingCures
🎉 Milestone Alert! The #PACTAct has reached the $1 MILLION mark for claims filed!
This legislation has been instrumental in supporting #kidneycancer patients and many others. At KidneyCAN, we`re proud to have advocated for such transformative legislation and ensured veterans know the benefits available to them.
Learn more about this achievement here: https://bit.ly/PACTAct1M
#PACTAct #KidneyCANAdvocacy #SupportOurVeterans
Sep 15
🎉 Milestone Alert! The #PACTAct has reached the $1 MILLION mark for claims filed!
This legislation has been instrumental in supporting #kidneycancer patients and many others. At KidneyCAN, we`re proud to have advocated for such transformative legislation and ensured veterans know the benefits available to them.
Learn more about this achievement here: https://bit.ly/PACTAct1M
#PACTAct #KidneyCANAdvocacy #SupportOurVeterans
In the heart of Washington D.C., as the Rally for Medical Research unfolds, we take a moment to honor the brave souls we’ve lost to kidney cancer.
Each name on this sign, held by KidneyCAN President Bryan Lewis, is more than a memory—it’s a legacy.
Many of these patients participated in clinical trials and advocated tirelessly for research funding. Their courage and commitment have paved the path for future advancements in kidney cancer research.
They were not just patients; they were pioneers, champions for change, ensuring brighter prospects for those who follow in their footsteps.
Today, we rally in their memory, inspired by their dedication. Their spirit drives our mission forward. 🧡💚
#RallyMedRes #FundNIH
Sep 14
In the heart of Washington D.C., as the Rally for Medical Research unfolds, we take a moment to honor the brave souls we’ve lost to kidney cancer.
Each name on this sign, held by KidneyCAN President Bryan Lewis, is more than a memory—it’s a legacy.
Many of these patients participated in clinical trials and advocated tirelessly for research funding. Their courage and commitment have paved the path for future advancements in kidney cancer research.
They were not just patients; they were pioneers, champions for change, ensuring brighter prospects for those who follow in their footsteps.
Today, we rally in their memory, inspired by their dedication. Their spirit drives our mission forward. 🧡💚
#RallyMedRes #FundNIH
The power of unity! Today, we’re rallying with organizations from across the country to emphasize the importance of investing in the NIH.
Together, we can drive change, inspire hope, and save lives. Be part of the movement. 🌟
#RallyMedRes #FundNIH
#AcceleratingCures
Sep 14
The power of unity! Today, we’re rallying with organizations from across the country to emphasize the importance of investing in the NIH.
Together, we can drive change, inspire hope, and save lives. Be part of the movement. 🌟
#RallyMedRes #FundNIH
#AcceleratingCures
We`re proud to be in Washington D.C. today and tomorrow, standing alongside advocates from across the country at the 2023 Rally for Medical Research.
Our mission? To emphasize the importance of NIH funding and champion kidney cancer research.
Join us in raising our voices for MORE PROGRESS, MORE HOPE, and MORE LIVES SAVED.
#RallyMedRes #FundNIH
Sep 13
We`re proud to be in Washington D.C. today and tomorrow, standing alongside advocates from across the country at the 2023 Rally for Medical Research.
Our mission? To emphasize the importance of NIH funding and champion kidney cancer research.
Join us in raising our voices for MORE PROGRESS, MORE HOPE, and MORE LIVES SAVED.
#RallyMedRes #FundNIH
