Researchers in Sweden and United States Awarded New ThyCa Grants in 2012
We are proud to announce the awarding of 6 thyroid cancer research grants, including three new thyroid cancer research grants and three 2011 continuation grants, all funded by the patients and families who contribute to ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association. This is the ninth consecutive year in which ThyCa has awarded research grants.
One of the new grants is named the Ric Blake Memorial Thyroid Cancer Research Grant, named for ThyCa Co-Founder Ric Blake in honor of his dedication and commitment to ThyCa and to our goal of better futures for everyone with thyroid cancer, everywhere in the world.
The three new research grants are awarded to:
- Niklas Finnberg, Ph.D., Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Hershey, Pennsylvania, for the project titled “Sorafenib and Quinacrine as Potential Combination for Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma.”
- Aime Franco, Ph.D., University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, for the project titled “The Role of RAS versus RAF in Thyroid Cancer Development and Progression.”
- Andreas Lundqvist, Ph.D., Cancer Center Karolinska, Stockholm, Sweden, for the project titled “Study the Role of Natural Killer Cells in Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma.” Dr. Lundqvist is the recipient of the Ric Blake Memorial Thyroid Cancer Research Grant.
The three 2011 continuation grants are awarded to:
- Naifa L. Busaidy, M.D., University of Texas – M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, for the project “A PI3K Based Phophoproteome Signature To Predict Prognosis and Response to Therapy in BRAF Mutant Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma.”
- Joanna Klubo-Gwiezdzinska, M.D., Ph.D., Washington Hospital Center/Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., for the project, “The Role of the Translocator Protein (TSPO) in the Thyroid Cancer Response to Treatment.”
- Carmelo Nucera, M.D., Ph.D., Harvard Medical School, and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, for the project “Targeting BRAFV600E with an Orally Available Selective Inhibitor in Novel In Vitro and In Vivo Preclinical Models of Human Papillary Thyroid Cancer.”
Researchers and institutions worldwide are eligible for ThyCa grants. The winning grant proposals were selected by an independent expert panel of the American Thyroid Association (ATA), the professional association of research and clinical thyroidologists. Our thanks to the ATA for your ongoing support and collaboration.
Generous financial support from thousands of contributors make possible ThyCa’s annual research grants. Thank you very much to everyone for their support. No contribution is too large or too small. Everyone is invited to join the Rally for Research.
Together, we make a difference in our future, and are helping advance understanding and research for better management of our cancer as well as cures, toward our dream of a future free of thyroid cancer.
On Saturday, October 20, 2012, you’re invited to join us at the Eaglewood Resort & Spa in Itasca, Illinois, for a wonderful evening of connections, camaraderie, and fundraising for Thyroid Cancer Research. We all share the dream of research for cures for all thyroid cancer.
This year we will honor our dear friend and long-time contributor and ThyCa Medical Advisor Ernest Mazzaferri, M.D. The photo shows Dr. Mazzaferri speaking at a ThyCa workshop.
You’re invited to reserve your seat at the 11th Annual Dinner/Auction for Thyroid Cancer Research. Tickets are $50 each, and the net proceeds go to the ThyCa Research Funds. If you are unable to attend, you are invited to sponsor a ticket for someone else or help with a donation to the research fund.
Use the online form or download the mail in form for Dinner/Auction tickets, available on our Conferences page.
You honor us, not only by sharing this important and exciting moment in ThyCa history, but also by your continued interest and participation in helping us make a difference in our world. Thank you!
To find out more about the Rally for Research, and ThyCa’s Research Grants, awarded every year since 2003, visit our Rally for Research page.
In This Issue:
- Spotlight Shines on Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
- New Free Webinars with Experts: September 12 and September 24
- Latest News about the 15th International Conference, October 19 – 21, 2012
- Dinner/Auction Research Fundraiser Funds Thyroid Cancer; Dr. Mazzaferri To Be Honored
- New Drug Decision Update from the FDA
- Ric Blake Remembered with One-Year Anniversary Gathering
- Raising Awareness: Radio, TV, Facebook, Blogs, Walks, Talks, Displays, More
- What Are the Top 10 Things To Know About Thyroid Cancer?
- Genzyme’s Rare Community Spotlights Thyroid Cancer
- Follow Us on Facebook and Twitter
- Book Explains Cancer Clinical Trials
- Rejoicing Through the Tears
- Low-Iodine Recipe of the Month
- Stay Connected and Informed
- Have You Visited the Web Site Lately?
- Join Us, Become a Member
- Every Day
- About ThyCa News Notes
Spotlight Shines on Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
It’s Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month! Throughout September, survivors, caregivers, and friends everywhere will be urging everyone to “Find It Early.”
Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month shines the spotlight on
- the need for early detection of the fastest increasing cancer in both men and women,
- the need for treatment and long-term follow-up using expert guidelines, plus
- research for better treatments and cures for all thyroid cancer.
You’re invited to get involved!
Help the next person “Find It Early,” get free education and support, and connect with others around the world. ThyCa, sponsor of Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, invites you to become an Honor Roll Partner in raising awareness, now and throughout the year.
Get the facts about thyroid cancer, plus free handouts, tips on how to help, and the calendar of coming events, on our website.
New Free Webinars with Experts: September 12 and September 24
Free! Click here for details and registration
We’re excited to invite you to watch and listen to two new Free 1-Hour Thyroid Cancer Webinars with Thyroid Cancer Expert Speakers, sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. with CancerCare and the American Thyroid Association as partners.
- Wednesday, September 12 at 1 p.m. ET, 12 p.m. CT. Medullary Thyroid Cancer. Jeffrey Moley, M.D., Thyroid Surgeon, Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, and ThyCa Medical Advisor, is speaking and answering your questions about Surgery in the Care of Medullary Thyroid Cancer.
- Monday, September 24 at 3 p.m. ET, 2 p.m. CT. Thyrogen. Bryan Haugen, M.D., Endocrinologist, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado; President-Elect, American Thyroid Association, and ThyCa Medical Advisor, is speaking and answering your questions about Thyrogen® (rhTSH), used in connection with testing and treatment for differentiated thyroid cancer (papillary, follicular, and their variants).
Watch and listen free of charge, online from any computer, anywhere in the world. Telephone access is also available. Details will be added here.
Please tell everyone in your networks about these terrific free opportunities to learn.
Latest News about the 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference
Meet and Learn from Dozens of Distinguished Medical Professionals
October 19 – 21, 2012
Chicago, Illinois
The Annual International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference is where experts, survivors, and caregivers come together to:
- Share the latest advances in thyroid cancer treatment, testing, research, and clinical trials
- Learn skills and practical information for coping with thyroid cancer’s many challenges
- Take part in roundtables with survivors and caregivers affected by every type of thyroid cancer as well as every situation, from people being tested or newly diagnosed to people with advanced thyroid cancer and long-term survivors
- Become part of a community of people all dealing with the challenges of a thyroid cancer diagnosis and treatment.
More than 40 distinguished medical professionals are confirmed to speak at the 15th Annual Conference, October 19-21! Many of these experts will lead more than one session.
The complete speaker list is on the web site in the Conference section. We’ll add updates, as well as (late this month or in early October) the program schedule.
We’ll also have sessions with specialists in coping skills and practical issues, as well as numerous roundtable discussions with ThyCa volunteers and participants from collaborating organizations.
Conference Registration is open! Register early for the early-bird discount!
You can register either online, or by mail, for one, two, or all three days. Go to our website, and select the Conferences page, to register.
You’ll also find hotel room reservations, driving directions, airline and car rental discount information, and more. Please note the special hotel sleep room rate ($99) at the Eaglewood Resort & Spa (Meeting site) is only available for reservations made through September 28, 2012. Conference hotel rooms are filling fast, especially for pre-conference days. If the hotel website says that no rooms are available for pre-conference days, contact the Conference Team at conference@thyca.org and we’ll work with the hotel to find a room for you. The Conference section of the web site has more information about hotel rooms.
Looking forward to seeing you at this unique and amazing weekend of learning, support, and friendship!
Dinner/Auction Research Fundraiser Supports Thyroid Cancer Research
On Saturday, October 20, 2012, you’re invited to join us at the Eaglewood Resort & Spa in Itasca, Illinois for a wonderful evening of connections, camaraderie, and fundraising for Thyroid Cancer Research. We all share the dream of research for cures for all thyroid cancer.
This year we will honor our dear friend and long-time contributor and ThyCa Medical Advisor Dr. Ernie Mazzaferri.
You’re invited to reserve your seat at the 11th Annual Dinner/Auction for Thyroid Cancer Research by using the online form or downloading the mail in form available on our Conferences page. Tickets are $50 each, and the net proceeds go to the ThyCa Research Funds. If you are unable to attend, you are invited to sponsor a ticket for someone else or help with a donation to the research fund.
You honor us, not only by sharing this important and exciting moment in ThyCa history, but also by your continued interest and participation in helping us make a difference in our world. Thank you!
New Drug Decision Update from the FDA
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is maintaining its November 29, 2012, action date for deciding whether to approve cabozantinib, a potential treatment for medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), and also decided not to have the drug on its discussion agenda on November 9. Exelixis, Inc. makes this drug.
More information about Medullary Thyroid Cancer, including the MTC E-Mail Support Group, Webinars, and the 2012 Conference speakers on MTC, is available at www.thyca.org, as well as in the free handbookThyroid Cancer Basics.
Ric Blake Remembered with One-Year Anniversary Gathering
Early this August, family and friends gathered in New Hampshire to remember Ric Blake, ThyCa Co-Founder and longtime volunteer, who passed away on August 15, 2011. All gathered to dedicate a beautiful granite park bench in New Hampshire, in Ric’s memory.
Then everyone gathered with Diane Blake near the Blake home for refreshments and tributes. The afternoon included a slide show of some of Ric’s artistic photographs of nature, favorite places, and people, plus the video of Ric speaking of his vision for end-of-life support. The video was recorded by a member of Team Ricky, the friends and relatives who helped with Ric’s care and support and who continue to meet monthly.
Also in August, ThyCa announced the first Ric Blake Memorial Thyroid Cancer Research Grant, awarded to a researcher in Sweden, in Ric’s memory and honor. Click here for ThyCa’s tribute to Ric.
Raising Awareness: Radio, TV, Facebook, Blogs, Walks, Talks, Displays, More
People near and far are creating innovative and varied ways to mark Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month throughout September. The theme is “Find It Early,” because, when detected early, thyroid cancer is usually treatable. Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month sponsor ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. invites everyone to spread the message.
Here are a few of the many events and activities:
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September 1st: More than 150 individuals and organizations shared ThyCa’s FacebookAnnouncement on their own Facebook pages. Thank you for spreading their word through your networks around the world!
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September 7th: ThyCa will be represented at the Stand Up to Cancer Live Telecast! It’s at 8 p.m. ET/7p.m. CT on TV networks. www.standup2cancer.org Thank you, Joel Amromin, ThyCa Los Angele.s Support Group, and Diane Bible, ThyCa South Bay Los Angeles Support Group, for representing ThyCa
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September 12, 2012: Free Thyroid Cancer Webinar at 1 p.m. ET/12 p.m. CT with Jeffrey Moley, M.D., Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, and ThyCa Medical Advisor. Detailson our Webinarspage.
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September 12, 2012: Free Thyroid Cancer Expert Panel Program with 5 Speakers in Newark, Delaware. Hosted by the ThyCa Newark, Delaware Support Group.
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September 13, 2012: Call-in Radio Show broadcast from New York City with Dr. R. Mack Harrell, a member of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and long-time ThyCa Volunteer Christine Lanotte of New York City.
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September 15, 2012: Saturday at 8:30 a.m. in Newtown, Pennsylvania. Thyroid Thunder 5K Run/1 mile walk organized and hosted by Meghan Wright. Rain or Shine. Visitwww.active.com/running/newtown-pa/thyroid-thunder-5k-1mile-walk-2012.
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September 17, 2012, and September 24, 2012: at 7 a.m. TV Interview on Thyroid Cancer, with thyroid cancer survivor and R. Mack Harrell, M.D. On Lifetime Channel. Will also be on YouTube.
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September 22, 2012: Free Thyroid Disease Forum from 1 – 3 p.m. in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. Sponsored by American Thyroid Association with co-sponsorship by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association. Details to be added to the Calendar of Events on our website.
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September 24, 2012: Free Thyrogen Webinar at 3 p.m. ET with Bryan Haugen, M.D., Endocrinologist, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado and ThyCa Medical Advisor. Register and watch/listen at the ThyCa Webinars page.
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September 24, 2012: Radio Broadcast for Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. The Stupid Cancer Show with two representatives of ThyCa as guests.
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September 29, 2012. Pilates and More for a Cure, organized and hosted by Christine Sypien, starting at 10 a.m. at Fitness Fanatics, Great Southern Shopping Center, 1155 Washington Pike, Bridgeville, Pennsylvania 15017. Pilates, Medical Professional Speakers, Door Prizes, Snacks, More! Click here for the flyer with details.
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September 2012. The Pink Hair Project and Honor Our Angels Awareness Fundraiser, with Team Thyroid, Chris Prestano and Meredith Petrillo.
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Genzyme’s Rare Community spotlights thyroid cancer awareness and ThyCa’s free services, interviewing Gary Bloom, ThyCa Executive Director! The article, published August 28, is at www.genzymerarecommunity.com/blog.
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The Thyroid Examiner, Everyday Health, and more, have published articles about Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month.
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New Zealand Thyroid Support, the Hypoparathyroidism Association, and others are linking to Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, the 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference, and more, from their web sites.
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From Virginia: I would love to pass out free awareness info to the quilt guild I belong to at our next meeting. We have about 100 members. We meet at a public library so any remaining materials would be passed out there as well.
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From California: I am currently a senior in high school. My mom is a thyroid cancer survivor. I’d like to help out for the Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month in September. I plan to give out the brochures, the neck check cards and wallet cards to my school community and the neighborhood pharmacies to raise the awareness about thyroid cancer. I’m hoping my effort can raise awareness on the importance of early detection and treatment as well as the need for more thyroid cancer research.
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From Michigan: I am a thyroid cancer survivor who is hosting a thyroid cancer awareness walk in September. There will be approximately 60 people attending & I would love to have some information to pass out for this event.
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From a Survivor treated in 2012: I currently work at a small school and want to incorporate Thyroid Cancer Awareness month here. I would appreciate any brochures or info that I could pass out to the teachers and staff.
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From Texas: I am a school nurse. In my district we have 8 people who have had or are currently battling Thyroid cancer. I would love to request any free materials that we might pass out and share at a local health fair we have going on in Sept. I also want to thank you for a great web site. I was diagnosed with Hurthle Cell and last year our student body donated money to ThyCa at all of our home football games, in my honor.
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From North Carolina: I am a former teacher with advanced thyroid cancer. I will be going to two of the schools where I taught for Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. Since this is also the beginning of the school year when teachers are so busy, the principals have given me permission to talk to the teachers now and pass out materials gradually to refresh their memory. I will be talking to about 140 staff members. I would like brochures and information cards. “THANK YOU.”
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From Ontario, Canada: I work at a Family Health Team in Ontario, Canada and am a survivor and would like to order resources to distribute at work in September.
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From Florida: I am a thyroid cancer survivor and plan to give a presentation to my company about thyroid issues/cancer. I am requesting 60 copies of brochures and Neck Check Cards.
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From California: I have a display set up at the Redlands Public Library. The librarian said he will order the Thyroid Cancer: A Guide for Patients in English and Spanish. I also distributed the information to my family practice doctor. The YMCA said they would post the material on their bulletin board. After Labor Day I plan on taking some material to local hospitals and a few local pharmacies. The Redlands City Council has the proclamation of September as Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month on the Consent Calendar for the September 4th meeting. The Redlands Patch online newspaper said they would do an article. I also forwarded your press release to two other newspapers. Twenty-two years ago when I was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer there were few resources and no support so I think what you are doing is great.
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From Puerto Rico: I was diagnosed with a cancer nodule in 2011. I want to help others to get checked. (Mine was discovered on a routine check up; I didn’t have any symptoms.) Can you send me information? I can use both English and Spanish materials.From Nebraska: I would really like to help spread the word. I can post materials at work, nursing homes, health fairs etc. in and north of Omaha, Nebraska. I might get an article written in the local small town paper too. I am a papillary thyca survivor two years post surgery.
Want to help? Ask us for free materials (or download flyers from our web site), plus tips for spreading the word, and how you and your business, agency, or organization can partner with ThyCa in Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. Let us know what you’re doing to heighten awareness. Share your ideas with others.
Visit the Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month page for news, announcements, free handouts and tips, and the opportunity to partner with ThyCa in this important event.
Thank you for helping others!
What Are the Top 10 Things to Know About Thyroid Cancer?
The new free handout is here: www.thyca.org/wp-content/uploads/legacy/topten.pdf. And more free handouts on the Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month page. Or ask ThyCa to mail you free Neck Check Cards, Wallet Cards, and more. Thanks very much to everyone who’s helping raise awareness!
Genzyme’s Rare Community Spotlights Thyroid Cancer
On August 28, 2012, Genzyme’s Rare Community put the spotlight on thyroid cancer awareness and ThyCa’s free services, interviewing Gary Bloom, ThyCa Executive Director. The article is atwww.genzymerarecommunity.com/blog for August 28.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
Book Explains Cancer Clinical Trials
“Cancer Clinical Trials: A Commonsense Guide to Experimental Cancer Therapies and Clinical Trials” was written by Tomasz W. Beer, M.D., of Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, and Larry Axmaker, Ed.D., psychologist, teacher, and writer, to give patients and caregivers a general overview of clinical trials for all kinds of cancers as well as the factors to consider when determining whether a clinical trial is a good option for their situation. This 166-page book was published in 2012 by DiaMedica Publishing. ThyCa has added it to our Links list bibliography.
Rejoicing Through the TearsBy Brenda George
I am just now reaching my five-year mark of being a thyroid cancer survivor on the 27th of August.
Before my cancer diagnosis, life was good, but the dreaded news shattered my, otherwise-comfortable lifestyle, and turned my own world upside down. I had 8 nodules on my thyroid gland with one tumor measuring over 2 centimeters, with it being likely that the cancer had invaded the outside margin of my lymph nodes. I had to go through an MRI, ultrasound, biopsy, pre-op tests, a total thyroidectomy, the low iodine diet, and radioactive iodine therapy to treat the cancer. I have to take thyroid hormone replacement daily for the rest of my life, not to mention all of the follow-up tests that become a way of life for anyone dealing with any type of cancer.
Since my cancer diagnosis, my life has changed completely. It was a long arduous journey that only became easier with time. My faith in God pulled me through, which led me to write my book, “Rejoicing Through the Tears.” I want to reach out to people going through any type of a cancer diagnosis and tell them that a cancer diagnosis doesn’t always mean life is over; in fact, it can become an opportunity to make life more meaningful than ever.
Since my treatment, I’m fortunate that I have never felt better in my life (I wish everyone was as fortunate in that regard). I have gone on to work in an assisted living facility, where I can encourage others every day. I will be going to Mackinac Island, MI in September for a book signing and I will be participating in the 8-mile walk around the island.
As long as I have breath, I don’t want to waste one day. I am passionate about getting the word out to encourage everyone I can to never give up, but to fight the good fight and never lose hope.
There are some things we can all do each and every day to make our lives more meaningful. We need to find joy in simple things, by having a good attitude and developing a healthy lifestyle, by eating healthy and exercising regularly. Of course, we all must keep all of those follow up appointments to keep our health on track. We must also surround ourselves with the love of family and friends. It is so important to enjoy life and to celebrate each day!
While I am reaching out to people with all types of cancer, I have a special place in my heart for those with thyroid cancer. I will always be grateful for ThyCa for all of the help the many volunteers have been while I have been writing my book. I appreciate their support and permission to use information from www.thyca.org to include in my book. I am also thankful to ThyCa and all of the contributors for the Low Iodine Cookbook. It’s such a help to so many (including me) during a very difficult time.
I wish everyone good health and happiness.
Low-Iodine Recipe of the MonthContributed by Christi H.
Cinnamon Raisin Bread
This is for the bread machine
1 cup water
1 1/2 Tablespoons olive oil
3 cups flour (I used bread flour)
3 Tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons noniodized salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 1/2 teaspoons yeast
3/4 cups raisins –
Add all the ingredients in order listed except the raisins, keeping yeast and salt separate. I make a small well in the middle of the flour and put the yeast there. When you hear the “add ingredients” beep, add the raisins. This was cooked in my 1 1/2 lb bread machine.
Thank you, Christi, for contributing this recipe and tips. We will include them in the next edition of ThyCa’s FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook.
Free and Downloadable
Download the 7th edition of the Low-Iodine Cookbook in English for free, with more than 340 favorite recipes from more than 150 generous volunteers.
The Cookbook is also available in:
Please remember, while you’re welcome to download and print the entire free low-iodine cookbook, you can also print just the pages you need.
This free cookbook is a wonderful help when you’re preparing to receive radioactive iodine for treatment or testing. All the recipes are favorites of some of our ThyCa volunteers, who are sharing them with everyone, to make the low-iodine diet easy and tasty. The recipes are also great for family meals and for potlucks, any time.
To contribute your favorite recipe or tip, send it to recipes@thyca.org.
Patients, caregivers, and health care professionals in 96 countries are now receiving ThyCa’s free education, support services, and mailed materials.
Our web site has information and downloadable materials in English, Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish.
Free Newsletter and Guestbook
We invite you to join our worldwide network. We want to help you stay connected and informed. Our mission is to be there for every person affected by thyroid cancer.
By signing up on ThyCa’s free Guestbook, you’ll receive the latest news about thyroid cancer, new free publications, events, and more.
If you haven’t already signed up, we invite you to sign up today.
Every Day: Free Webinars
Listen, and learn from experts, anywhere you are in the world. Seven important thyroid cancer topics, plus 2 new webinars in September. All 9 webinars are available free at www.thyca.org/news/webinars/
Every Week: Meet and Learn
You’re invited to free Thyroid Cancer Support Group Meetings in dozens of locations. The web pages with details for all the groups are here: www.thyca.org/sg/. If you don’t see a group listed near you, find out how ThyCa can help you start a new ThyCa Support Group. Just e-mail to us at support_coord@thyca.org.
More Events:
- October 5, 2012. Madera, California. Cancer Legal Rights Conference. Free. Sponsored by the Cancer Legal Resource Center. ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc., is pleased to partner with CLRC in this event.
- October 6, 2012. Redondo Beach, California. Thyroid Cancer Seminar: Ask a Doctor. Free. Hosted by the ThyCa South Bay L.A. Support Group. For more information, contact Cheryl Moulton at 310-316-3077 or e-mail to southbay-ca@thyca.org.
- • October 13, 2012. Fresno, California. Thyroid Cancer Seminar with Physician Speakers. Free. Hosted by the ThyCa Fresno Thyroid Cancer Support Group. For details, call Facilitator Anjali Kapoor-Davis at 559-260-1870 or e-mail to fresno-ca@thyca.org.
- • October 19-21, 2012. The 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference, Chicago, Illinois, with dozens of distinguished physicians and other specialists. Scholarships on request to cover the registration fee. Speaker list, registration, more, on our Conferences page.
For more events, details, and updates, visit our Calendar of Events: www.thyca.org/support/calendar/.
Have You Visited the Web Site Lately?
We’re excited to report that the www.thyca.org web site receives more than 400,000 visits per month —more than 14,000 each day. Almost every day our volunteer webmasters make new additions or updates.
More than 650 web pages provide extensive information about all types of thyroid cancer, links to a broad range of free support services, and details about awareness campaigns, as well as fundraising for thyroid cancer research.
The web site has information in English, Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish. Recent additions include new handouts (Three Things To Tell Your Friends about Thyroid Cancer, Thyroid Cancer is not a “good” cancer, and the Top Ten Things To Know About Thyroid Cancer); new webinars, new events, and more.
Free downloadable publications include the Free Low-Iodine Cookbook in English, Spanish, and French, plus the Free 50-page handbook Thyroid Cancer Basics in English and Chinese, and dozens more downloadable publications.
Thank you very much to the more than 50 thyroid cancer specialists who provide their input and expertise, to our webmasters Betty Solbjor and Joel Amromin, and to the dozens of volunteers on ThyCa’s Publications and Web Site Teams.
Help us sustain, strengthen, and extend our services. We invite you to become a member of ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Your membership dues will support ThyCa’s efforts to reach and serve other survivors and their families around the world. Members receive our Membership Messenger newsletter.
Membership is open to everyone worldwide. You may become a 1-year ThyCa member ($25), 2-year member ($45), or lifetime member ($225). For our online Membership Form and our mailed Membership Form, go to our Membership page.
Every day, thousands of people with thyroid cancer, and their families, receive support, education, and hope from ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Your generous support, in the time you give and in financial contributions, is what makes it possible to sustain, strengthen, and expand our services and outreach.
It only takes a minute to volunteer your time by e-mailing to volunteer@thyca.org or to make a donation online in support of ThyCa’s work (or you are welcome to donate by mail to ThyCa, P.O. Box 964, Chesterfield, MO 63006-0964), so click here to give.
Thank you!
About ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2012 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Please share ThyCa News Notes with your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at publications@thyca.org.
Your suggestions for articles are welcome. The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month.
Thank you to our writing, editing, and proofreading team for this issue: Brenda George, Leah Guljord, Christi H., Pat Paillard, Barb StatasCherry Wunderlich, and Gary Bloom.
The information in this newsletter is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended, nor should it be interpreted, as medical advice or directions of any kind. Readers are advised to consult their own medical doctor(s) for all matters involving their health and medical care.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail to thyca@thyca.org, call toll-free at 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit our website.
Thyroid Cancer Survivors Urge Neck Checks; Awareness Handouts Free at www.thyca.org
Thyroid cancer will set a new record total of 56,460 people newly diagnosed in the United States this year, and more than 200,000 worldwide. Thyroid cancer affects people of all ages, from young children to seniors. Unlike many cancers, thyroid cancer is increasing in incidence. When detected early, thyroid cancer is usually treatable. However, some thyroid cancers are aggressive and difficult to treat.
September brings the annual international grassroots effort that also highlights the year-round activities of ThyCa participants in more than 96 countries around the world to:
- Raise awareness of the importance of early detection, treatment, and lifelong monitoring
- Inform the public about thyroid cancer and free support services, resources, and educational events with experts
- Increase awareness of the need for more thyroid cancer research
The message for Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month is “Find It Early.” Early detection is a key to improving outcomes.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. (www.thyca.org), sponsor of Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, encourages people to ask for a neck check each time they visit their doctor. Signs to discuss with the physician include a lump or fullness in the neck, lymph node swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or voice changes. Most thyroid nodules are benign, but some are cancer.
“Health care professionals are essential to the detection of thyroid cancer,” says ThyCa Executive Director Gary Bloom of Olney, Maryland, himself a thyroid cancer survivor. “Done properly, a neck check can be as simple as touching the neck and watching the patient swallow. This can be done very quickly and won’t cause any delays for the medical office, but that 30 seconds could make all the difference in the world when it comes to diagnosing thyroid cancer.”
A few of the many grassroots activities that volunteers have organized:
- In Texas, a mother who is a survivor of thyroid cancer, and her children are going to neighborhood pharmacies each weekend in September to give out wallet cards and Neck Check cards.
- \In Virginia, a hospital staff member has developed a Thyroid Cancer Awareness Display
- In Connecticut, a school staff member is giving materials to students and staff.
- Volunteers in than 90 local ThyCa support groups in the United States, Canada, Costa Rica, and Philippines, provide telephone and e-mail support and hold support group meetings.
- Around the world, thyroid cancer survivors, caregivers, and friends wear Neck Check shirts, wristbands, and pins, and give awareness materials to their friends and family.
Hundreds of pages of thyroid cancer information and free downloadable materials are available in English, Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish on ThyCa’s web site.. On October 19-21, 2012, the 15th Annual International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference will take place in Chicago, Illinois, with more than 35 distinguished experts speaking.
Free materials and information are available from the nonprofit ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. (which began in 1995), by e-mailing to thyca@thyca.org, calling toll free 1-877-588-7904, faxing to 1-630-604-6078, writing to ThyCa, PO Box 1545, New York, NY 10159-1545, or visiting our web site.
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Contact: Cherry Wunderlich, 301-493-8810, cwunderlich@thyca.org, Director of Publications and Outreach
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Sponsor of Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
In This Issue:
- Researchers in Sweden and United States Awarded New ThyCa Grants
- Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month Begins Soon!
- Invitation
- 32 Physicians Confirmed for the Conference
- Dinner/Auction Research Fundraiser Features Varied Items
- Free Thyroid Cancer Webinars in August and September
- Stacey’s Story
- Stay Connected and Informed
- Hypoparathyroidism: New Site, Support, Survey
- Follow Us on Facebook and Twitter
- Low-Iodine Recipe of the Month
- Join Us, Become a Member
- Every Day
- About ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Researchers in Sweden and United States Awarded New ThyCa Grants
We are proud to announce the awarding of 6 thyroid cancer research grants, including three new thyroid cancer research grants and three 2011 continuation grants, all funded by the patients and families who contribute to ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association. This is the ninth consecutive year in which ThyCa has awarded research grants.
One of the new grants is named the Ric Blake Memorial Thyroid Cancer Research Grant, named for ThyCa Co-Founder Ric Blake in honor of his dedication and commitment to ThyCa and to our goal of better futures for everyone with thyroid cancer, everywhere in the world.
The three new research grants are awarded to:
- Niklas Finnberg, Ph.D., Penn State Hershey Cancer Institute, Hershey, Pennsylvania, for the project titled “Sorafenib and Quinacrine as Potential Combination for Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma.”
- Aime Franco, Ph.D., University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, for the project titled “The Role of RAS versus RAF in Thyroid Cancer Development and Progression.”
- Andreas Lundqvist, Ph.D., Cancer Center Karolinska, Stockholm, Sweden, for the project titled “Study the Role of Natural Killer Cells in Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma.” Dr. Lundqvist is the recipient of the Ric Blake Memorial Thyroid Cancer Research Grant.
The three 2011 continuation grants are awarded to:
- Naifa L. Busaidy, M.D., University of Texas – M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, for the project “A PI3K Based Phophoproteome Signature To Predict Prognosis and Response to Therapy in BRAF Mutant Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma.”
- Joanna Klubo-Gwiezdzinska, M.D., Ph.D., Washington Hospital Center/Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., for the project, “The Role of the Translocator Protein (TSPO) in the Thyroid Cancer Response to Treatment.”
- Carmelo Nucera, M.D., Ph.D., Harvard Medical School, and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, for the project “Targeting BRAFV600E with an Orally Available Selective Inhibitor in Novel In Vitro and In Vivo Preclinical Models of Human Papillary Thyroid Cancer.”
Researchers and institutions worldwide are eligible for ThyCa grants. The winning grant proposals were selected by an independent expert panel of the American Thyroid Association (ATA), the professional association of research and clinical thyroidologists. Our thanks to the ATA for your ongoing support and collaboration.
Generous financial support from thousands of contributors make possible ThyCa’s annual research grants. Thank you very much to everyone for their support. No contribution is too large or too small.
Together, we make a difference in our future, and are helping advance understanding and research for better management of our cancer as well as cures, toward our dream of a future free of thyroid cancer.
Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month Begins Soon!
Get Free Materials, Help Others, Partner with ThyCa!
Volunteers are planning innovative and varied ways to mark Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month throughout September. ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc., established this annual observance 12 years ago to promote:
- the need for early detection of the fastest increasing cancer in both men and women,
- the need for treatment and long-term follow-up using expert guidelines, plus
- research for better treatments and cures for all thyroid cancer.
A few samples of this year’s activities.
- In Texas, Lisa C., a papillary thyroid cancer survivor, and her five children plan to distribute Neck Check cards and thyroid cancer awareness brochures outside two neighborhood pharmacies, every weekend in September. Lisa wants to spread the word about how important it is to have neck checks.
- In California, a nonprofit family service agency plans to have a thyroid cancer awareness and information booth at a combined one-day community health fair and vehicle show.
- In Pennsylvania, the State Senate unanimously adopted a Senate resolution sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati, a thyroid cancer survivor, to designate September 2012 as Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month in Pennsylvania.
- In Virginia, Tennessee, and other states, hospitals and ThyCa volunteers are organizing thyroid cancer awareness displays for tabletops and bulletin boards.
- Volunteers will give awareness materials to friends and relatives, wear the Neck Check Awareness Shirts and awareness pins and wristbands. Additionally, we receive numerous requests from thyroid cancer survivors, caregivers, and health care professionals for materials to help raise awareness and educate others about thyroid cancer.
Want to help? Ask us for free materials (or download flyers from our web site), plus tips for spreading the word, and how you and your business, agency, or organization can partner with ThyCa in Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. Let us know what you’re doing to heighten awareness. Share your ideas with others.
Visit the Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month page for news, announcements, free handouts and tips, and the opportunity to partner with ThyCa in this important event: www.thyca.org/how-to-help/awareness/ .
Thank you for helping others!
Have you visited Chicago, to see the sights, and try new foods? How about going to learn all you can about thyroid cancer?
Well, from October 19-21, 2012, you can. You can go to the 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors Conference at the Eaglewood Resort & Spa and you’ll do just that!
You won’t believe how enlightened this weekend will make you feel. You will meet wonderful and friendly people, learn from the experts who deal with thyroid cancer every day, have the opportunity to ask your questions of the experts, and probably make a lot of new friends.
I have learned so much while attending five conferences already, and I’ve made friends in ThyCa whom I truly look forward to seeing, even if just once a year! They have become a second family to me.
We all know how some physicians may speak in “medicalese”— well, not these doctors! They speak to us in terms that we can understand, and they respond to our questions in a warm, caring way.
If you or someone you care about has been touched by thyroid cancer, you really should make sure to attend a Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference. ThyCa is always there to help and give all the support and information you need to help make the journey with thyroid cancer easier to survive.
Come and see what it’s all about! Hope to see you there!
32 Physicians Confirmed for the Conference
15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference
October 19 – 21, 2012
Register Online or by Mail
Details on our website
On October 19 – 21, 2012, you’re invited to meet and learn from 32 distinguished physicians, plus numerous other specialists and hundreds of other thyroid cancer survivors like you. You’ll be able to choose from more than 100 sessions and topics, with varied choices and speakers in 6 different rooms at each time period during the day.
The 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference will bring together thyroid cancer survivors, caregivers, and health care professionals and other specialists at the beautiful Eaglewood Resort and Spa in Itasca, Illinois, located near Chicago as well as near O’Hare Airport and several major highways.
More than 40 leading medical professionals will speak during the weekend. Some will lead more than one sessions. It’s a tremendous opportunity to get answers to your question and learn the latest about treatment, followup, and research, including clinical trials.
Early-bird registration is open, both online and by mail. You’re welcome to attend for one, two, or all three days. There are discounts for guests and ThyCa members. Scholarships are available on request to cover the registration fee. Hotel rooms are available for $99 for single, double, triple, or quad. Conference details are on the web site.
Our speakers are coming from major centers in the United States and Mexico, and include nine members of ThyCa’s Medical Advisory Council:
- Beth Israel Medical Center, New York
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute, Ohio
- Hospital Angeles de las Lomas, Mexico
- Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Maryland
- Mayo Clinic, Minnesota
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Wisconsin
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York
- National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Maryland
- North Shore University Hospital, New York
- Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Illinois
- Northwestern University Medical School, Illinois
- Ohio State University College of Medicine, Ohio
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Maryland
- University of Chicago, Illinois
- University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Colorado
- University of Connecticut Health Center, Connecticut
- University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania
- University of Southern California, California
- University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Texas
- Yale University School of Medicine, Connecticut
- and more medical professionals are being confirmed!
Also confirmed:
- A Cancer Rights Attorney
- Speakers from the Hypoparathyroidism Association, Idaho
- Sessions on coping skills and complementary approaches to well-being
- Roundtable leaders and participants from ThyCa and collaborating organizations focusing on cancer and thyroid issues
More About the Conference
Conference Registration is now open! Register early and get the early-bird discount! You can register either online, or by mail, for one, two, or all three days. Go to www.thyca.org, and select the Conference web page, to register.
The web site has added details about the hotel, as well as driving directions and highlights of nearby attractions. The conference web page also has airline discount and car rental discount information and links. Online and call-in hotel room reservations are now open at www.thyca.org on the Conferences web page.
Praise for the Conference, from last year’s attendees:
- Lots of terrific information and sharing.
- Excellent content, organization, and mood/friendliness.
- One to one with doctors was the best feature
- Good relaxed approach for getting to know people and their concerns
- This was my first ThyCa Conference — Fantastic
Looking forward to seeing you at the Conference!
Dinner/Auction Research Fundraiser Features Varied Items
On Saturday, October 20, 2012, you’re invited to join us at the Eaglewood Resort & Spa in Itasca, Illinois for a wonderful evening of connections, camaraderie, and fundraising for Thyroid Cancer Research.
At this year’s event we’re going to honor our dear friend, and long-time contributor and ThyCa Medical Advisor, Dr. Ernie Mazzaferri.
This annual event was initiated 10 years ago by ThyCa volunteer Joni Eskenazi of Mercer Island, Washington.
We all share the dream of research for cures for all thyroid cancer. You may reserve your seat at the 11th Annual Dinner/Auction for Thyroid Cancer Research by using the online form or downloading the mail in form available on our Conferences web page at www.thyca.org/support/conferences/
Free Thyroid Cancer Webinars in August and September
In September, ThyCa will present two new free webinars on thyroid cancer. You’re invited to watch and listen from your home or office.
- On September 12, 2012, at 1 p.m. ET Jeffrey F. Moley, M.D., will speak and answer questions about Surgery in the Care of Medullary Thyroid Cancer. Go to ThyCa’s Webinar page for further details and to sign up.
- On September 24, 2012, at 3 p.m. ET, Bryan R. Haugen, M.D., Endocrinologist, will speak and answer questions about Thyrogen (rhTSH) and its role in the management of differentiated thyroid cancer (papillary, follicular, and their variants). Go to ThyCa’sWebinarr page for further details and to sign up.
- The August 23 Webinar on Molecular Imaging and Treatment for the Thyroid will be available online in an archive. Andrei Iagaru, M.D., and Alan Farwell, M.D., were the speakers. Visit Discover MI. This webinar was sponsored by the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, and ThyCa and ATA partnered in outreach support.
Stacey’s StoryBy Stacey C. of New York
My story began last July when I was diagnosed with Stage 1 Papillary Thyroid Cancer just one month after my wedding in June 2011.
Earlier, during an annual office visit with my primary care physician, the doctor found 2 nodules along my throat and referred me to an endocrinologist. At the time, the nodules were too tiny to biopsy, so I was scheduled for a follow-up ultrasound a month after my wedding.
The ultrasound showed that my nodules had grown and I should go for a biopsy. The biopsy results revealed Papillary Thyroid Cancer in its early stages. I had a total thyroidectomy and partial lymph node dissection (4 were removed) in late August, and then, in early November, a treatment dose of radioactive iodine.
I will have my one year testing in November 2012 and hope to continue a healthy lifestyle, including lifetime monitoring of my thyroid cancer. I ran my first Half Marathon in New York City in March 2012. In honor of Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, I will be running in the Hamptons Half Marathon in September 2012 with the American Cancer Society. My cancer diagnosis has caused me to change my life for the better, and it has motivated me to be the healthiest I can be.
I am so grateful for my family and friends who have stayed by my side through this entire ordeal, and for ThyCa and all the services it made available to me.
Patients, caregivers, and health care professionals in 96 countries are now receiving ThyCa’s free education, support services, and mailed materials. Our web site has information and downloadable materials in English, Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish.
Free Newsletter and Guestbook
We invite you to join our worldwide network. We want to help you stay connected and informed. Our mission is to be there for every person affected by thyroid cancer.
By signing up in ThyCa’s free Guestbook, you’ll receive the latest news about thyroid cancer, new free publications, events, and more.
If you haven’t already signed up, we invite you to sign up today: www.thyca.org/support/guestbook/
Every Day: Free Webinars
Listen, and learn from experts, anywhere you are in the world. Six important topics. The speakers are ThyCa medical advisors.
- Papillary Follicular Thyroid Cancer—A Primer
- Papillary/Follicular Thyroid Cancer—Persistent Disease
- Medullary Thyroid Cancer—A Primer
- Medullary Thyroid Cancer—Persistent Disease
- Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
- . Pediatric Thyroid Cancer
All 6 webinars are available, free, anytime at www.thyca.org/news/webinars/
New webinars scheduled, too! Visit the Webinar page for details and updates.
Every Week: Meet and Learn
You’re invited to free Thyroid Cancer Support Group Meetings in dozens of locations. The web pages with details for all the groups are here: www.thyca.org/sg/. If you don’t see a group listed near you, find out how ThyCa can help you start a new ThyCa Support Group. Just e-mail to us atsupport_coord@thyca.org.
Free Events with Experts in California, Delaware, Illinois, Quebec, and for People Worldwide
- September 7, 2012, Chicago, Illinois. Cancer Legal Rights Conference. Sponsored by the Cancer Legal Resource Center. ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc., is pleased to partner with CLRC in this event. Details at http://cancerrightsconference.org/.
- September 12, 2012 at 1 p.m. ET. Free Webinar sponsored by ThyCa, with Dr. Moley speaking on Surgery in Medullary Thyroid Cancer.
- September 12, 2012. Newark, Delaware. Free Thyroid Cancer Expert Panel Program with 5 Speakers. Hosted by the ThyCa Newark Delaware Support Group. To register, call Cindy Waddington at 302- 623-4707 or e-mail to Delaware@thyca.org.
- September 22, 2012. Quebec City, Quebec. Free Thyroid Disease Public Health Forum, sponsored by the American Thyroid Association with ThyCa a partnering co-sponsor.
- September 24, 2012, at 3 p.m. ET. Free Webinar sponsored by ThyCa, with Dr. Haugen speaking on Thyrogen (rhTSH) and its use in the management of differentiated thyroid cancer (papillary, follicular, and their variants).
- October 5, 2012. Madera, California. Cancer Legal Rights Conference. Sponsored by the Cancer Legal Resource Center. ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc., is pleased to partner with CLRC in this event. Details at http://cancerrightsconference.org/centralvalley.
- October 6, 2012. Redondo Beach, California. Thyroid Cancer Seminar: Ask a Doctor. Hosted by the ThyCa South Bay L.A. Support Group. For more information, contact Cheryl Moulton at 310-316-3077 or e-mail to southbay-ca@thyca.org.
- October 13, 2012. Fresno, California. Thyroid Cancer Seminar with Physician Speakers. Hosted by the ThyCa Fresno Support Group. For details, call Facilitator Anjali Kapoor-Davis at 559-260-1870 or e-mail to fresno-ca@thyca.org.
For details, updates, and more coming events, visit our Calendar of Events: www.thyca.org/support/calendar/.
Hypoparathyroidism: New Site, Support, Survey
If you have or know someone who deals with hypoparathyroidism, below are two web sites with helpful information about hypoparathyroidism.
Hypoparathyroidism is a deficiency of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the body resulting in low levels of calcium in the blood. Some thyroid cancer patients experience hypoparathyroidism due to the accidental removal of or damage to the parathyroid glands during thyroid surgery.
- Site sponsored by the Hypoparathyroidism Association
- Site sponsored by NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
- Visit ThyCa’s home page for a new survey for people with Hypoparathyroidism. The survey was developed by NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc., which develops drugs related to skeletal, endocrinological, and other body systems.
- We’re pleased to announce that Julie Hunsaker and Carol Sanders of the nonprofit Hypoparathyroidism Association will again lead sessions at the International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference, being held this year on October 19-21, 2012. Thank you very much to the Hypoparathyroidism Association for the support and education you provide, and to Julie Hunsaker and Carol Sanders for your participation again at the Conference.
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Low-Iodine Recipe of the MonthPlus Some TipsContributed by Lily W. of California
Chilled Peach Soup
4 fresh peaches
1/4 cup fresh juice from oranges, clementines, or tangerines
2 Tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
1/4 teaspoon non-iodized salt
Boil 3 quarts of water. Score peaches with a knife. Blanch peaches for 1 minute. Drop peaches into ice water. Peel and cube peaches. Add all ingredients into blender; blend until smooth. Add water to create the desired consistency (approx 2 cups). Refrigerate at least an hour before serving.
Makes 6 servings.
Variations:
- You can also skip the blanching step and just chop peaches with the skins. The soup will be a darker color but the skins are nutritious.
- Skip the salt and this makes a great base for smoothies.
Both options are great ways to enjoy the summer fruit regardless of the time of year.
Some Tips –
- Freeze portions of your favorite summer fruits to enjoy during your low-iodine diet; this is great in the winter when fresh fruit options may be limited.
- Dress your favorite fruit salad with tangerine or Clementine juice.
- Puree roma tomatoes in the food processor to use for base of tomato sauce or gazpacho. Freeze in 2-cup containers.
Thank you, Lily, for contributing this recipe and tips. We will include them in the next edition of ThyCa’s FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook.
Free and Downloadable
Download the 7th edition of the Low-Iodine Cookbook in English for free, with more than 340 favorite recipes from more than 150 generous volunteers.
The Cookbook is also available in:
Please remember, while you’re welcome to download and print the entire free low-iodine cookbook, you can also print just the pages you need.
This free cookbook is a wonderful help when you’re preparing to receive radioactive iodine for treatment or testing. All the recipes are favorites of some of our ThyCa volunteers, who are sharing them with everyone, to make the low-iodine diet easy and tasty. The recipes are also great for family meals and for potlucks, any time.
To contribute your favorite recipe or tip, send it to recipes@thyca.org.
Help us sustain, strengthen, and extend our services. We invite you to become a member of ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Your membership dues will support ThyCa’s efforts to reach and serve other survivors and their families around the world. Members receive our Membership Messenger newsletter.
Membership is open to everyone worldwide. You may become a 1-year ThyCa member ($25), 2-year member ($45), or lifetime member ($225). For our online Membership Form and our mailed Membership Form, visit our Membership page.
Every day, thousands of people with thyroid cancer, and their families, receive support, education, and hope from ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Your generous support, in the time you give and in financial contributions, is what makes it possible to sustain, strengthen, and expand our services and outreach.
It only takes a minute to volunteer your time by e-mailing to volunteer@thyca.org or to make a donation online in support of ThyCa’s work (or you are welcome to donate by mail to ThyCa, P.O. Box 964, Chesterfield, MO 63006-0964), so click here to give.
Thank you!
Copyright (c) 2012 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Please share ThyCa News Notes with your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at publications@thyca.org.
Your suggestions for articles are welcome. The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month.
Thank you to our writing, editing, and proofreading team for this issue: Stacey C., Leah Guljord, Pat Paillard, Barb Statas, Lily W., Cherry Wunderlich, and Gary Bloom.
The information in this newsletter is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended, nor should it be interpreted, as medical advice or directions of any kind. Readers are advised to consult their own medical doctor(s) for all matters involving their health and medical care.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail to thyca@thyca.orgcall toll-free at 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit our website.
The 4th Annual Texas/Southwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop will be held on Saturday, July 21, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Medical Center Plano, Building III – 3rd Floor Auditorium, 4001 West 15th Street, Plano, TX 75093.
This free event is sponsored by the nonprofit ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. (www.thyca.org) and is open to everyone interested in thyroid cancer.
The workshop is a free day of education and support for people at all phases of thyroid cancer testing, treatment, and follow-up. Caregivers, friends, and everyone interested are welcomed to come and learn from specialists, and to learn and share with other thyroid cancer survivors and families.
Attendees may come for all or part of the workshop. Walk-in attendees are welcome. There will be free parking. Register either online in advance on www.thyca.org (use the form in the Workshops section) or onsite at the workshop. Onsite registration begins at 8:30 a.m., the Welcome at 8:45 a.m., and the speakers at 9 a.m. The program schedule includes:
- 9 – 10 a.m. Barbara Fraser, L.P.C., Counselor, Green Oaks Counseling Services
- 10 – 11 a.m. Randy Shulkin, R.Ph., Pharmacist, Medical Center of Plano
- 11 a.m.- 12 noon. Dennis M. Abbott, D.D.S., Dental Oncology Professionals of North Texa
- 12 noon – 1 p.m. Maggie Powell, R.N., B.S.N., Genzyme (Thyrogen)
- 1 – 2p.m. Roundtable Discussions and Video: ThyCa Volunteers— Young Adult Survivors, ThyCa Dallas Volunteers, Caregiver, and Thyroid Cancer’s Magic Bullet Video (Time Permitting)
For more workshop information, call 1-972-384-1866 or 1-877-588-7904 or visit ThyCa’s web site www.thyca.org. For directions and more information, visit www.mapquest.com or the ThyCa Dallas Support Group web page.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. www.thyca.org is an international nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. For more information e-mail to: thyca@thyca.org; write to: PO Box 1545, New York, NY 10159-1545; call toll-free: 1-877-588-7904; or visit our website.
In This Issue:
- Research Grant Recipients Selected
- Research Update: New Test May Spare Some Patients from Thyroid Surgery
- Just a Few Weeks Until Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, Worldwide; You’re Invited To Become an Honor Roll Partner in Awareness
- 31 Physicians, Plus More Specialists, Confirmed for the Conference;Register Online or by Mail
- Cancer Pain Survey Completes Data Collection
- Two More Surveys Invite Your Input
- In Memory of Two Volunteers
- People in 96 Countries Receive ThyCa’s Free Services
- Theresa Wickerham Named Assistant to Executive Director
- Get News Updates: Follow Us on Facebook and Twitter
- Low-Iodine Recipe of the Month
- Join Us: Become a Member
- Every Day
- About ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Research Grant Recipients Selected
We are proud to announce the awarding of six thyroid cancer research grants—three new thyroid cancer research grants, plus three continuation grants, all funded by the patients and families who contribute to ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association.
This is the ninth consecutive year in which ThyCa has awarded research grants. Our grants are open to researchers and institutions worldwide. The winning grant proposals were selected by an independent expert panel of the American Thyroid Association, the professional association of research and clinical thyroidologists. Our thanks to the ATA for your ongoing support and collaboration. ThyCa will soon announce further details about the grant awardees and their research projects.
Generous financial support from thousands of contributors makes possible ThyCa’s research grants. Thank you very much to everyone. Together, we are helping advance understanding and research for better management of our cancer as well as cures, toward our dream of a future free of thyroid cancer.
Research Update: New Test May Spare Some Patients from Thyroid Surgery
A new test helps determine which patients do not need thyroid surgery when their nodules are suspicious for thyroid cancer, reports a recent study published in New England Journal of Medicine, and noted by the National Cancer Institute.
The test analyzes gene expression when fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is inconclusive, to determine whether a nodule is cancerous. ThyCa’sweb site links to information on this test, the Afirma® Thyroid FNA Analysis from Veracyte, on the Links page in the Tests and Levels section.
Just a Few Weeks Until Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, Worldwide
You’re Invited To Become an Honor Roll Partner in Awareness
This worldwide observance is sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc., to promote:
- the need for early detection of the fastest increasing cancer in both men and women,
- the need for treatment and long-term follow-up using expert guidelines,
- connections to free support services, resources, and educational events with specialists, plus
- research for better treatments and cures for all thyroid cancer.
We publish our Honor Roll of Awareness Partners on our web site. We invite you to join in raising awareness. Free materials, including Thyroid Cancer Basics, are available both for Awareness Month and for your year-round efforts. Help someone else become more aware of their thyroid cancer, and of the free support, resources, and events of ThyCa.
Find out how to partner with ThyCa in Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. Go to our Awareness page for details.
31 Physicians, Plus More Specialists Confirmed for the 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference
October 19 – 21, 2012
Register Online or by Mail
This October 19 – 21, 2012, you are cordially invited to meet and learn from 31 distinguished physicians, plus numerous other specialists in health, coping skills, practical issues like insurance and employment, as well as hundreds of other thyroid cancer survivors like you.
It’s the 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference, sponsored by ThyCa. Join thyroid cancer survivors, caregivers, and health care professionals and other specialists at the beautiful Eaglewood Resort and Spa in Itasca, near Chicago, Illinois.
We’re honored that we’ve already confirmed more than 35 outstanding medical professionals from these 19 institutions :
- Beth Israel Medical Center, New York
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute, Ohio
- Hospital Angeles de las Lomas, Mexico
- Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Maryland
- Mayo Clinic, Minnesota
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Wisconsin
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York
- National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Maryland
- Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Illinois
- Northwestern University Medical School, Illinois
- Ohio State University College of Medicine, Ohio
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Maryland
- University of Chicago, Illinois
- University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Colorado
- University of Connecticut Health Center, Connecticut
- University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania
- University of Southern California, California
- University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Texas
- Yale University School of Medicine, Connecticut
- and more medical professionals are being confirmed!
Also confirmed:
-A Cancer Rights Attorney
-Speakers from the Hypoparathyroidism Association, Idaho
More About the Conference
Conference Registration is now open! Register early and get the early-bird discount! You can register either online, or by mail. Go to our website’s Conferences page to register.
Conference Hotel Rooms are once again $99. Online room reservations are now open at our Conferencespage.
The web page also has airline discount and car rental discount information and links.
Praise for the Conference, from last year’s attendees:
- Lots of terrific information and sharing.
- Excellent content, organization, and mood/friendliness.
- One to one with doctors was the best feature
- Good relaxed approach for getting to know people and their concerns
- This is my first ThyCa Conference — Fantastic
Looking forward to seeing you at the Conference!
Cancer Pain Survey Completes Data Collection
Thank you to eveyone who helped advance knowledge through the Cancer Pain Survey that was posted on www.thyca.org. This survey’s data collection is now complete.
Two More Surveys Invite Your Input
Two more surveys of thyroid cancer patients are available on our website. If you received radioactive iodine (RAI) as part of your thyroid cancer treatment, you’re invited to participate. By completing the surveys, you increase understanding and improvements in thyroid cancer care.
Go to our website and look for the surveys on the right side of the home page.
In Memory of Two Volunteers
We are saddened to tell you that two longtime ThyCa volunteers passed away recently.
Rebecca Lord of Maryland was devoted to her family, her community, and to helping others who were coping with difficult situations with their thyroid cancer. She served for many years as Co-Facilitator of the ThyCa Washington, DC, Support Group, as well as leader of sessions at many ThyCa workshops and the International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference.
Clayton Twigg of Ohio was diagnosed in 1997 with anaplastic thyroid cancer 
(ATC), and through a clinical trial, exceptional doctors, and his wife Rose’s Chicken Soup, he defied the stated prognosis, and went on to check numerous things off of his bucket list, one item at a time. Clayton’s ATC was cured; a few months ago he had developed other medical issues unrelated to ATC. Clayton and Rose were remarkable pioneers and people who paved the way for many.
We are privileged to have known Clayton and Rebecca. We plan to add further tributes to Clayton and Rebecca in our newsletter.
People in 96 Countries Receive ThyCa’s Free Services
Patients, caregivers, and health care professionals in 96 countries are now receiving ThyCa’s free education, support services, and mailed materials. Our web site has information and downloadable materials in English, Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish.
Free Newsletter and Guestbook
We invite you to join our worldwide network. By signing up in ThyCa’s free Guestbook, you’ll receive the latest news about thyroid cancer, new free publications, events, and more.
We want to help you stay connected and informed. Our mission is to be there for every person affected by thyroid cancer.
If you haven’t already signed up, we invite you to sign up today: www.thyca.org/guestbook.htm
Every Day: Free Webinars
Listen, and learn from experts, anywhere you are in the world. Six important topics. The speakers are ThyCa medical advisors.
- Papillary Follicular Thyroid Cancer—A Primer
- Papillary/Follicular Thyroid Cancer—Persistent Disease
- Medullary Thyroid Cancer—A Primer
- Medullary Thyroid Cancer—Persistent Disease
- Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
- Pediatric Thyroid Cancer
All 6 webinars are available, free, anytime at www.thyca.org/news/webinars.htm
Every Week: Meet and Learn
You’re invited to free Thyroid Cancer Support Group Meetings in dozens of locations. The web pages with details for all the groups are here: www.thyca.org/sg/local.htm. If you don’t see a group listed near you, find out how ThyCa can help you start a new ThyCa Support Group. Just e-mail to us at support_coord@thyca.or
Texas Workshop Held on July 21
On Saturday, July 21, 2012, the 4th Texas/Southwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop took place in Dallas. It’s free. Speakers included a pharmacist, a dentist, a mental health progressional, and a nurse/Thyrogen speaker. The day also included survivor/caregiver roundtables. The day’s program is at www.thyca.org/support/conferences/.
Theresa Wickerham Named Assistant to Executive Director
We are pleased to announce that Theresa Wickerham of Missouri is now the Assistant to the Executive Director. ThyCa created this position to help support ThyCa’s continuing growth and reach of services and outreach. Theresa will serve in a variety of capacities, all designed to strengthen our programs and services to respond to you and your needs.
A thyroid cancer survivor of more than 30 years, Theresa has been involved in ThyCa since 2000, when she came to the 3rd International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference. She started and continues to co-facilitate the ThyCa St. Louis Support Group and has organized Midwest Workshops. She also co-hosted the 2008 Conference held in St. Louis, Missouri, and has led numerous roundtables at the Conferences.
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Low-Iodine Recipe of the MonthContributed by Lily W. of California
Corn Salad
6 cobs of fresh corn
2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 pound grape tomatoes, sliced in half
2 green onions, finely sliced
Arugula or your favorite lettuce
Slice the corn kernels off the cobs. (Cobs can be used to make stock) In a large skillet, heat the olive oil. Add the corn and cook until translucent—about 3 minutes. Add garlic and stir for a minute. Add balsamic vinegar, tomatoes and green onions, and cook for another minute. Remove from stove, cool, and chill.
Serve on top of a bed of Arugula or your favorite lettuce.
Makes 6 servings
Thank you, Lily, for contributing this recipe. We will include it and the other recipes you sent us, in the next edition of ThyCa’s FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook.
Free and Downloadable
Download the 7th edition of the Low-Iodine Cookbook in English for free, with more than 340 favorite recipes from more than 150 generous volunteers.
The Cookbook is also available in:
Please remember, while you’re welcome to download and print the entire free low-iodine cookbook, you can also print just the pages you need.
This free cookbook is a wonderful help when you’re preparing to receive radioactive iodine for treatment or testing. All the recipes are favorites of some of our ThyCa volunteers, who are sharing them with everyone, to make the low-iodine diet easy and tasty. The recipes are also great for family meals and for potlucks, any time.
To contribute your favorite recipe or tip, send it to recipes@thyca.org.
Help us sustain, strengthen, and extend our services. We invite you to become a member of ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Your membership dues will support ThyCa’s efforts to reach and serve other survivors and their families around the world. Members receive our Membership Messenger newsletter.
Membership is open to everyone worldwide. You may become a 1-year ThyCa member ($25), 2-year member ($45), or lifetime member ($225). For our online Membership Form and our mailed Membership Form, go to our Membership page.
Every day, thousands of people with thyroid cancer, and their families, receive support, education, and hope from ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Your generous support, in the time you give and in financial contributions, is what makes it possible to sustain, strengthen, and expand our services and outreach.
It only takes a minute to volunteer your time by e-mailing to volunteer@thyca.org or to make a donation online in support of ThyCa’s work (or you are welcome to donate by mail to ThyCa, P.O. Box 964, Chesterfield, MO 63006-0964), so click here to give.
Thank you!
About ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2012 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Please share ThyCa News Notes with your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at publications@thyca.org. Each ThyCa News Notes complete issue is also published on this web page: www.thyca.org/newsletters.htm.
Your suggestions for articles are welcome. The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month.
Thank you to our writing, editing, and proofreading team for this issue: Leah Guljord, Pat Paillard, Barb Statas, Lily W., Cherry Wunderlich, and Gary Bloom.
The information in this newsletter is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended, nor should it be interpreted, as medical advice or directions of any kind. Readers are advised to consult their own medical doctor(s) for all matters involving their health and medical care.\
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail to thyca@thyca.orgcall toll-free at 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit our website.
Six Stanford physicians will speak on Saturday, June 23, 2012, at the Northern California/Bay Area Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop. The workshop will take place from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at Stanford University Cancer Center, 8785 Blake Wilbur, Stanford, Califoenia, in the 2nd floor Conference Room. This free event is sponsored by the nonprofit ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. (www.thyca.org) and is open to everyone interested in thyroid cancer.
The workshop is a free day of education and support for people at all phases of thyroid cancer testing, treatment, and follow-up. aregivers, friends, and everyone interested are welcomed to come and learn from physician speakers, and to learn and share with other thyroid cancer survivors and families.
Speakers include:
- Haruko Akatsu, M.D., M.S., Endocrinologist, Stanford University
- Dimitrios Colvas, M. D., Oncologist, Stanford University
- Colevas Ava Kamaya, M.D., Radiologist-Ultrasound, Stanford University
- Aya Erik Mittra M.D., Radiologist-Nuclear Medicine, Stanford University
- Jeffrey Norton, M.D., Endocrine Surgeon, Stanford University
- John B. Sunwoo, M.D., F.A.C.S., Head and Neck Surgeon, Stanford University
Program topics include Thyroid Cancer Management, Thyroid Surgery, Nuclear Medicine, 1-131 RAI Treatment and Scanning Techniques,.Ultrasound in Thyroid Cancer Surveillance, Neck Recurrence and Neck Dissection, and Chemotherapy for Thyroid Cancer.
Attendees may come for part or all of the day. Register either online on the form at www.thyca.org or else onsite on the day of the workshop. Online registration is encouraged. Visit ThyCa’s web site www.thyca.org for updates and further details about the workshop. For more information, e-mail SiliconValley@thyca.org or thyca@thyca.org or call 1-877-588-7904.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is an international nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. For more information e-mail to: thyca@thyca.org; write to: PO Box 1545, New York, NY 10159-1545; call toll-free: 1-877-588-7904; or visit our website.
In This Issue:
- New Survey Seeks Input on Your RAI Treatment
- Over 30 Medical Professionals Already Confirmed for the Conference in October
- New Drug Application Submitted for a Targeted Therapy for Medullary Thyroid Cancer
- Dentists Raise Awareness of Neck Check
- 9/11 Fund Coverage Proposed for Thyroid Cancer
- Become a Partner in Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
- Make Your Voice Heard: Become a Member of ThyCa
- Every Week: Meet and Learn
- ThyCa’s Free Guestbook and Newsletter Subscription
- Six Stanford Experts Speak on June 23rd at the California Workshop; July Brings Texas Workshop
- Low-Iodine Recipe of the Month
- A Letter to ThyCa
- Follow Us on Facebook and Twitter
- Every Day
- About ThyCa News Notes
New Survey Seeks Input on Your RAI Treatment
The new thyroid cancer patient survey asks about your radioactive iodine treatment. It takes just 5 to 10 minutes to complete. The researchers are David Myssiorek, M.D., Professor of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, at New York University School of Medicine, and Steven Scharf, M.D., Chief of Nuclear Medicine, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, NY.
Go to ThyCa’s home page to find the survey, on the right side. Thank you for helping advance knowledge about thyroid cancer management!
Over 30 Medical Professionals Already Confirmed for the Conference in October
On October 19 – 21, 2012, you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet and learn from more than 30 specialists from numerous leading centers. It’s the 15th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference, and will be held in Chicago, Illinois.
We’re honored that already more than 30 distinguished medical professionals from 19 institutions are confirmed to speak at the Conference:
- Beth Israel Medical Center, New York
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute, Ohio
- Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Maryland
- Mayo Clinic, Minnesota
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Wisconsin
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York
- National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Maryland
- Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Illinois
- Northwestern University Medical School, Illinois
- Ohio State University College of Medicine, Ohio
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Maryland
- University of Chicago, Illinois
- University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Colorado
- University of Connecticut Health Center, Connecticut
- University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania
- University of Southern California, California
- University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Texas
- Yale University School of Medicine, Connecticut
- and more medical professionals are being confirmed!
Also confirmed—speakers from
- The Cancer Legal Resource Center/ Disability Rights Legal Center, California & Illinois
- The Hypoparathyroidism Association, Idaho
Conference Registration is now open! Register early and get the early-bird discount! You can register either online, or by mail. Go to our website’s Conferences web page to register.
Conference Hotel Rooms at $99. Once again, we’re pleased to confirm the special $99 room rate for our conference attendees, at the Eaglewood Resort & Spa in Itasca, Illinois. Online room reservations are now open on our website’s Conferences page.
The web page also has airline discount and car rental discount information and links.
Praise for the Conference, from last year’s attendees:
- Lots of terrific information and sharing.
- Excellent content, organization, and mood/friendliness.
- One to one with doctors was the best feature
- Good relaxed approach for getting to know people and their concern
- This is my first ThyCa Conference — Fantastic
Looking forward to seeing you at the Conference!
New Drug Application Submitted for a Targeted Therapy for Medullary Thyroid Cancer
On May 31, 2012, Exelixis completed its new drug application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cabozantinib, a targeted therapy for the treatment of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) that is progressive, unresectable, locally advanced, or metastatic. Exelixis submitted the application under the NDA was submitted under the FDA’s Fast Track designation, aimed to accelerate its review. If the FDA decides on the faster review, the goal for its completion would be six months after receiving the final submission.
Dentists Aid Early Detection through Neck Checks
Once again, ThyCa is giving out Neck Check and Thyroid Cancer Awareness materials at meetings of the Academy of General Dentistry. ThyCa thanks dentists for their important role in early detection of thyroid cancer by doing neck checks for thyroid nodules and other head and neck conditions, during routine dental appointments.
9/11 Fund Coverage Proposed for Thyroid Cancer
On June 8, 2012, federal health officials in the United States recommended that 50 types of cancer, including thyroid cancer, be added to the list of illnesses covered by a fund for people who were exposed to toxins at the site of the World Trade Center in New York City following the attacks of September 11, 2011. The coverage was recommended by the Science/Technical Advisory Committee of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Prior to implementing the proposal, a 30-day public review and comment period began on June 11.
September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
This worldwide observance is sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Get free materials! Find out how to partner with ThyCa in Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. Visit our Awareness page.
Make Your Voice Heard—Become a Member of ThyCa
Together We’re Better
Help us sustain, strengthen, and extend our services, plus support and advocacy for more thyroid cancer research. We invite you to become a member of ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Your membership dues will support ThyCa’s efforts to reach and serve other survivors and their families around the world, and increase early detection as well as research for cures for all thyroid cancer. Members receive our Membership Messenger newsletter.
Membership is open to everyone worldwide. You may become a 1-year ThyCa member ($25), 2-year member ($45), or lifetime member ($225). For our online Membership Form and our mailed Membership Form, go to Membership page.
You’re invited to free Thyroid Cancer Support Group Meetings in dozens of locations. The web pages with details for all the groups are here: www.thyca.org/sg/ . If you don’t see a group listed near you, find out how ThyCa can help you start a new ThyCa Support Group. Just e-mail to us atsupport_coord@thyca.org.
Every Day: Free Webinars: Listen, watch, and learn from thyroid cancer experts. Six important topics:
- Papillary Follicular Thyroid Cancer—A Primer
- Papillary/Follicular Thyroid Cancer—Persistent Disease
- Medullary Thyroid Cancer—A Primer
- Medullary Thyroid Cancer—Persistent Disease
- Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
- Pediatric Thyroid Cancer
All 6 webinars are available, free, anytime at www.thyca.org/news/webinars/
ThyCa’s Free Guestbook and Newsletter Subscription
By signing up in ThyCa’s free Guestbook, you’ll receive the latest news about thyroid cancer, new free publications, events, and more.
The standard of care for thyroid cancer has changed dramatically in the past few years. Research continues to make advances.
We want to help you stay connected and informed. Our mission is to be there for every person affected by thyroid cancer.
If you haven’t already signed up, we invite you to sign up today.
Six Stanford Experts Speak on June 23rd at the California Workshop; July Brings Texas Workshop
- Saturday, June 23, 2012, is the date of the Free Northern California/Bay Area Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Stanford University Cancer Center, 2nd Floor Conference Room, 875 Blake Wilbur, Stanford, CA. The speaker list and program schedule are on our Conferences page.
- On Saturday, July 21, 2012, you’re invited to the 4th Texas/Southwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop. It’s free. This event starts at 9 a.m. at Medical Center Plano, Building III – 3rd Floor Auditorium, 4001 West 15th Street, Plano (Dallas), TX. Details and free registration are on our Conferences page.
Low-Iodine Recipe of the MonthContributed by Margy
Fresh, Tangy Chicken Fajita Bowls
Marinade:
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
1/3 cup lemon or lime juice
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 clove crushed garlic
1/4 cup minced onion
1/2 teaspoon non-iodized salt
Other ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Onion
2 Red Peppers
Avocado
Tomatoes
Rice
Cilantro
Directions:
Cut chicken into strips. Refrigerate 4 to 8 hours in the marinade .
Cook the rice according to instructions on package.
Cook marinaded chicken strips over medium-high until cooked through and slightly browned.
Slice the peppers and chop the onion. Sautee these in oil, separately from the chicken, until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
Chop the avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro.
Mix the chicken, rice, peppers and onions, tomatoes and avocado.
Serve and top with the chopped cilantro.
Thank you, Margy, for contributing this recipe. We will include it in the next edition of ThyCa’s FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook.
Free and Downloadable
Download the 7th edition of the Low-Iodine Cookbook in English for free, with more than 340 favorite recipes from more than 150 generous volunteers.
The Cookbook is also available in:
Please remember, while you’re welcome to download and print the entire free low-iodine cookbook, you can also print just the pages you need.
This free cookbook is a wonderful help when you’re preparing to receive radioactive iodine for treatment or testing. All the recipes are favorites of some of our ThyCa volunteers, who are sharing them with everyone, to make the low-iodine diet easy and tasty. The recipes are also great for family meals and for potlucks, any time.
If you’d like to contribute your favorite recipe or tip, send it to recipes@thyca.org.
Good Morning:
I just wanted to take a minute to say thank you to all the people involved in this website. I truly don’t know what I would have done without it. I have utilized it from everything to what questions to ask my doctor; medical explanations of my cancer, printed and used recipes off the low iodine diet, to what to expect from the I-131 treatments.
May you all be blessed!
Linda
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
Every day, thousands of people with thyroid cancer, and their families, receive support, education, and hope from ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Your generous support, in the time you give and in financial contributions, is what makes it possible to sustain, strengthen, and expand our services and outreach.
It only takes a minute to volunteer your time by e-mailing to volunteer@thyca.org or to make a donation online in support of ThyCa’s work (or you are welcome to donate by mail to ThyCa, P.O. Box 964, Chesterfield, MO 63006-0964), so click here to give.
About ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2012 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Please share ThyCa News Notes with your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at publications@thyca.org. Each ThyCa News Notes complete issue is also published on this web page.
Your suggestions for articles are welcome. The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month.
Thank you to our writing, editing, and proofreading team for this issue: Leah Guljord, Margy, Pat Paillard, Linda R.S., Barb Statas, Cherry Wunderlich, and Gary Bloom.
The information in this newsletter is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended, nor should it be interpreted, as medical advice or directions of any kind. Readers are advised to consult their own medical doctor(s) for all matters involving their health and medical care.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) organization (tax ID #52-2169434) of thyroid cancer survivors, family members, and health care professionals. Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail to thyca@thyca.orgcall toll-free at 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit our website.
Congratulations to baseball fan Reggie Deal of Wyoming, thyroid cancer survivor who is blind, and in April and May 2012 is attending baseball games and raising thyroid cancer awareness. Reggie, originally from Texas, is an educator with a background in youth issues and counseling.
Reggie is attending games in all 30 major league baseball stadiums in 30 days.
Reggie is taking this opportunity to raise awareness of thyroid cancer and the importance of early detection through neck checks, because thyroid cancer is usually treatable when found early. ThyCa is pleased to provide materials to support Reggie in this important effort.
Reggie wears the thyroid cancer awareness wristband and shirt to tell people about thyroid cancer and ThyCa’s free services. Read his story here.
Congratulations and thank you, Reggie!