ThyCa NEWS NOTES – June 2008
In This Issue
- Conference Preview: Speaker Introductions
- Clinical Trials News: Phase III Trial of XL184-301
- Newest Support Group Begins in Northern New Jersey
- Want To Start a Support Group in Your Community?
- Research Advocacy: ThyCa and the 2008 AACR Scientist-Survivor Program
- Online Communities Grow
- One-To-One Support Available Year-Round
- Golfers and Friends Remember Megan and Raise Funds for Research
- What’s New on the Web Site?
- Creative Awareness in North Carolina
- A Story from Kayce
- Low-Iodine Tips and Recipes of the Month
- Coming Events
- Every Day
- Get Involved
Conference Preview: Speaker Introductions
We’re honored to introduce 27 distinguished medical professionals already confirmed for the 11th Annual International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference, which will take place in St. Louis, Missouri on October 17-19, 2008.
Surgery:
- James H. Boyd, M.D., St. Johns Mercy Medical Center, MO
- Douglas B. Evans, M.D., University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, TX
- Paul R. Krakovitz, M.D., The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH
- Mira Milas, M.D., The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH
- Jeffrey F. Moley, M.D., Washington University School of Medicine, MO
- David Myssiorek, M.D., F.A.C.S., New York University Clinical Cancer Center, NY
- Joseph Scharpf, M.D., The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH
- Julie Ann Sosa, M.D., M.A., Yale University School of Medicine, CT
Endocrinology:
- Rebecca Brown, M.D., University of Chicago Medical Center, IL
- Mimi Hu, M.D., University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, TX
- Uzma Khan, M.D., University of Missouri, MO
- Paul W. Ladenson, M.D., Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, MD
- Bryan McIver, M.B.Ch.B., Ph.D., Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
- Matthew D. Ringel, M.D., Ohio State University College of Medicine, OH
- \Steven I. Sherman, M.D., University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, TX
- Jennifer A. Sipos, M.D., University of Florida Shands Cancer Center, FL
- Beatriz Tendler, M.D., University of Connecticut Health Center, CT
- R. Michael Tuttle, M.D., Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, NY
- Irini E. Veronikis, M.D., St. Johns Mercy Medical Center, MO
- Steven G. Waguespack, M.D., University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, TX
Nuclear Medicine, PET/CT, and Radiology:
- A. Cahid Civelek, M.D., University of Louisville, KY
- Perry W. Grigsby, M.D., Washington University School of Medicine, MO
- Edward B. Silberstein, M.D., University of Cincinnati, OH
Medical Oncology:
- Marcia S. Brose, M.D., Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania, PA
- Scot C. Remick, M.D., Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, WV
Dentristry:
- Christopher M. Wolken, D.D.S., St. Louis, MO
Endocrine Nursing/Research:
- Pamela Schultz, R.N., Ph.D., New Mexico State University, NM
More to be confirmed.
Other Specialists and Survivor/Caregiver Roundtable Discussions
- Get-Acquainted Roundtables
- Coping Skills: Dealing with Fears about Testing, Treatment
- Health Insurance Coverage, Appeals, Portability
- Being in a Clinical Trial: Things To Consider, Questions To Ask
- Coping with Voice Issues
- Neck Dissection Recovery
- Living with Thyroid Cancer Over the Long Term
- ….and many more
For conference questions or to volunteer before or during the conference, e-mail to conference@thyca.org
We look forward to seeing you in St. Louis!
Clinical Trial News: Phase III Trial of XL184-301 for Medullary Thyroid Cancer
On June 16, 2008 June, Biopharmaceutical company Exelixis Inc. said Monday it reached an agreement with the Food and Drug Administration on the design of a Phase III clinical trial for a drug to treat medullary thyroid cancer.
Results of previous clinical trials were presented at the 2008 American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting. Exelixis said it plans to initiate the late-stage trial of XL184 this summer. The first of the trial’s several planned sites is now recruiting patients.
ThyCa’s web site has a clinical trials section. In it you’ll find links to all clinical trials for all types of thyroid cancer, plus background information about clinical trials and what you should know.
Newest Support Group Begins in Northern New Jersey
Welcome to ThyCa Northern New Jersey, which will be meeting in Denville, New Jersey on the third Tuesday evening of every month starting on July 15, 2008.
The facilitators are Candy Larkins, R.N. and Diane Wood, L.C.S.W. You’ll find meeting details and contact information on the group’s web page.
There are now ThyCa Support Groups in more than 70 communities around the United States and in Costa Rica and Philippines. These groups are wonderful places to get to know other survivors and caregivers in your community, face to face.
Want To Start a ThyCa Support Group in Your Community?
ThyCa will help you, with training and materials and ongoing support. To find out more about starting a group, contact Sara Brenner, Director of ThyCa Local Support Group Development, at
support_coord@thyca.org
Research Advocacy: ThyCa and the 2008 AACR Scientist—Survivor Program
Round 2: Progress, Youth, and Hope
By Joel Amromin, ThyCa Los Angeles Support Group Co-Facilitator and Board Member for ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association
This year was my second year representing ThyCa as a participant in the American Association for Cancer Research Scientist-Survivor Program (SSP). The SSP was held in connection with the 2008 AACR Annual Meeting.
This time, because I was at last year’s meeting, I could sense the pace of progress in cancer research that was not obvious last year. Much of this progress has resulted from the mapping of the human genome and the associated understanding of chain reactions in normal and cancerous cells.
I also took a closer look at the demographics of research presenters. I came away with hope.
Last year, Dr. Jean-Pierre Issa from the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center talked to us about epigenetics, which, in simplified terms, is the study of those parts of the DNA and associated cell mechanisms that are not genes. These play critical roles in the cell’s ability to translate the genes into instructions for building the right proteins at the right time.
Dr. Issa said that therapies based on epigenetics were still primarily applicable only to liquid tumors, but that Steven Sherman, M.D., also of M.D. Anderson, was starting to look into epigenetics in solid tumors. (Editor’s note: Dr. Sherman is a thyroid cancer specialist and is a ThyCa medical advisor.)
This year, Dr. Sherman spoke about New Directions and Targeted Therapies in a session on thyroid cancer. He described using Decitabine in Phase 1I clinical trials to see if it can restore radioactive iodine uptake in patients with metastatic papillary or follicular thyroid cancer that is unresponsive to radioactive iodine I 131.
Regardless of the trial outcomes, seeing this presentation highlighted the exciting progress being made as cutting-edge epigenetic research moves into the clinical arena, even if only in early trials.
Around the clock, seven days a week, the nearly 9,000 thyroid cancer survivors and caregivers in our e-mail support groups share their experiences and give and receive encouragement and support. More people join every day.
The 10 ThyCa E-Mail Groups offer discussions on coping with each type of thyroid cancer, as well as varied situations with thyroid cancer.
The e-mail groups are Thyca (papillary and follicular), Medullary Thyroid Cancer, Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer, Pediatric Thyroid Cancer, Long-Term Survivors, Advanced Thyroid Cancer (metastatic papillary and follicular), Childbearing and Thyroid Cancer, Mental Challenges, Love-Loss-Legacy, and the Caregivers Support Group.
One-To-One Support Available Year-Round
Our Person To Person Network serves thyroid cancer survivors around the world, giving one-to-one support from ThyCa volunteers matched by type of thyroid cancer.
Golfers and Friends Remember Megan and Raise Funds for Research
On May 18, 2008, “Big” John Oaks, proprietor of the Hanging Tree Saloon in Bracken, Texas, generously organized and hosted a golf tournament in memorial tribute to longtime ThyCa Volunteer Megan Stendebach.
John wrote, “The 7th annual Hanging Tree Saloon Golf Tournament for Thyroid Cancer Research, which has been renamed the 7th Annual Megan Stendebach Memorial Golf Tournament for Thyroid Cancer Research raised more than $13,000 this past May 18th!”
“It was a beautiful, sunny day for golf, as 109 golfers, and many more additional supporters got together to fondly remember Megan, share in great barbecue and refreshments, and raise much needed funds for Thyroid Cancer Research!”
Big John generously donated the food and refreshments, ensuring that all net proceeds go to our cause. He plans to continue this tribute event, and we will continue to announce it and honor Megan on our web site.
Megan was one of the first contributors to ThyCa’s web site, sharing many of her creative poems and songs in our web site’s Humor section. She also helped with ThyCa’s outreach programs and our conferences, and organized several fundraising golf tournaments as part of her many wonderful contributions to ThyCa.
Our award-winning web site received more than 320,000 hits in May.
Every week, and sometimes more often, our web site adds pages and free resources for survivors, caregivers, professionals, and the public. Some of the recent additions:
- Lotsa Helping Hands, a free online care coordination service
- Conference Updates: speakers, hotel reservation, and transportation details
- The latest edition of ThyCa News Notes
- Research Advocacy: ThyCa and the 2008 AACR Scientist-Survivor Program (complete article)
Coming soon:
- Low-Iodine Recipes in French
- More materials in Spanish
- Information about RAI and the chance of secondary cancers
- More Conference news
Thank you to Webmistress Betty Solbjor of Massachusetts, Webmaster Joel Amromin of California, the members of ThyCa’s Publications Committee, and the more than 50 thyroid cancer experts who give review and input to the web site.
Creative Awareness in North Carolina
In early June, Jennifer Bureau organized a highly successful Thyroid Cancer Awareness Display at the Wachovia Health Fair in Charlotte, North Carolina. Jennifer had signs and lots of ThyCa provided materials for the Wachovia employees, raising awareness for early detection and prompt treatment.
Taking part at the health fair was Karen Ferguson, ThyCa Co-Founder and coordinator of our Toll-Free Number volunteers. Karen writes,
“The health fair was grand. Wachovia was as huge as Jennifer promised. It is an indoor city. It has everything on site except living quarters. The facility even has several doctors offices, including specialists. I have no idea how many folks visited our booth. Jennifer deserves thanks and recognition for putting it together. She plans to do it next year too.”
Thank you, Jennifer and Karen!
(Editor’s Note: Hearing that word “Cancer” and knowing it is you that is being associated with it can be scary. You don’t even think about your thyroid that much and then someone tells you that you have thyroid cancer and you didn’t even know your thyroid could get cancer and that can be very disturbing. Some of “US” can still keep our sense of humor through it all and ThyCa has received humorous creative works from patients and caregivers alike and enjoys sharing them with you.)
Here is one such story thanks to Kayce:
I found out that I had thyroid cancer when pregnant with my second child and went in for my first baby’s appointment. The doctor felt my throat and said, “What’s this on your thyroid?” I thought to myself (“to myself” of course, since this is probably the stupidest thing you will ever hear, I didn’t DARE say it out loud!)…Thy-roid…there’s nothing’ wrong with my Thighs!”
Like I said, I didn’t dare say this out loud as I knew that it was extremely silly! So to break the ice with people, this is what I told them so they didn’t feel awkward and feel like they had to apologize for me having cancer…it’s a tough thing to tell people and a scary word for most.
So, I just decided if it’s extremely uncomfortable for people to talk about I just whip that story out and get a good laugh!
People need to know you can have humor about serious things such as this so they know you will be okay mentally, emotionally and most importantly physically. This will help your loved ones help you out in the times when you don’t feel much humor.
(Editor’s note: By the way, we’re always interested in different ways that people cope, and we invite you to share your poem, story, etc. by e-mailing to publications@thyca.org or mailing them to ThyCa, Attn: Coping with Thyroid Cancer, P.O. Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102. Help give other ThyCans a little humor, and thanks! )
Low-Iodine Tips and Recipes of the MonthFrom Melissa L. of Pennsylvania
For children and teens coping with thyroid cancer, Melissa L. of Pennsylvania generously contributed tips on menus and snacks, as well as recipes, to the Pediatric Thyroid Cancer Web Site.
Here are her suggestions for meals that kids enjoy:
Breakfast
- Oatmeal
- Fresh Fruit
- Fruit Juice
Lunch
- Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich
- Tortilla Chips
- Fruit Leather
- Juicy Juice
Dinner Menus
- Goulash and Green Beans
- Hamburger and French Fried Potatoes
- Chicken Breast and Mashed Potatoes
- Beef Roast, Carrots, Green Beans, and Mashed Potatoes
- Steak and Baked Potato
- Spaghetti, Tomato/Meat Sauce, and Green Beans
Kids’ Snack Ideas
- Sorbets instead of ice cream
- Italian Ice
- Popcorn popped in canola oil and salted to taste
- Fresh fruit
- Fresh vegetables
- Unsalted peanuts (add noniodized salt or non-sea salt to taste)
- Tortilla chips
- Fruit leather
- Fruit snacks
- Matzo crackers with peanut butter
Thank you, Melissa! Your tips and recipes will be added to the next edition of the FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook.
Download the cookbook, with more than 250 favorite recipes from more than 100 generous volunteers.
If you’d like to contribute your favorite recipe or tip to the cookbook’s next edition, send it torecipes@thyca.org.
- Each Month: Meetings of Local Thyroid Cancer Support Groups.
More than 70 groups. Meetings are held in states coast to coast, as well as Costa Rica and Philippines. Each group has its own web page. These meetings are wonderful ways to talk with other survivors and caregivers face to face. For meeting locations, times, and contacts, visit our web site’sLocal Support Groups page.
- September 2008: Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month.
Sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Find out how you can help raise awareness for early detection, and connect others with ThyCa’s free support services, resources, and special events. - Friday, Saturday, Sunday, October 17, 18, and 19, 2008: St. Louis, Missouri.
The 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference. Sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Conference location: Sheraton Westport Hotel, 191 Westport Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146. Learn from experts and share experiences with others coping with thyroid cancer. More than 80 session choices: The latest research, advances in treatment and follow-up, insurance and employment issues, and coping skills for well-being. More than 50 speakers will include leading physicians and other specialists. The hotel has arranged special room rates for conference attendees for single, double, triple, or quad rooms.
- Saturday, October 18, 2008 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.: St. Louis, Missouri.
ThyCa’s 7th Annual Dinner/Auction to Support Research. Sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. To be held in conjunction with the 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference. At the Sheraton Westport Hotel, 191 Westport Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146.
Every Day….thousands of people receive help and hope from ThyCa.
What ThyCa Can Do For You:
- Give free information and numerous downloadable publications on thyroid cancer
- Offer support via the Internet, local support group meetings, and person-to-person contacts
- Supply materials on thyroid cancer that you can’t find elsewhere
- Offer you an annual conference and regional workshops where you can meet other survivors, get answers to your questions about thyroid cancer, treatments, medications, and more, from doctors who are approachable and experts in thyroid cancer
- Make available to you, via the internet, printable flyers, articles, and newsletters that give the latest information on thyroid cancer
- Have people available who have been through this disease and are very willing to share their experiences and help you out
Get Involved— Five Ways You Can Help
- Tell others about www.thyca.org and our toll-free survivors’ line 1-877-588-7904
- Raise Awareness of Thyroid Cancer—Get Free Materials
- Volunteer: We’ll help you find an activity to match your time and talents.
- Become a ThyCa Member: Our thanks to all our one-year members, two-year members, and lifetime members.
- Donate: Donate by mail or online, or give a tribute gift in honor of someone special.
Special Thanks to the hundreds of wonderful volunteers who help ThyCa throughout the year. You are bringing help and hope to people worldwide by raising awareness, and sustaining and extending our outreach, support services, and special events, as well as fundraising to strengthen our services and support for thyroid cancer research for cures for all thyroid cancer.
ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2008 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Thank you to Pat Palliard, Editor, as well as Joel Amromin, Gary Bloom, Kayce K., Melissa L., and Cherry Wunderlich, for writing, editing, and proofreading this newsletter.
The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month. Suggestions for articles are welcome.
We invite you to send News Notes to your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at outreach@thyca.org.
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. We are dedicated to support, education, and communication for thyroid cancer survivors, their families and friends, as well as to public awareness for early detection, treatment, and lifetime health monitoring, and to thyroid cancer research fundraising and research grants.
Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mailthyca@thyca.org, call 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit www.thyca.org.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. (www.thyca.org) is pleased to announce the formation of the ThyCa Denville/Northern New Jersey Support Group.
The free support group meets on the third Tuesday of each month from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. beginning Tuesday, July 15, 2008. The meetings are held at Saint Clare’s Hospital, First Floor Silby Cafeteria, 25 Pocono Road, Denville, New Jersey.
The meetings welcome people at all phases of testing, treatment, and follow-up for thyroid cancer, as well as their family members and friends.
Diane Wood and Candy Larkins are the group’s facilitators. For more information about the group, e-mailnorthern-nj@thyca.org, call Diane Wood at 973-625-6176 or Candy Larkins at 973-334-1006, or visit the group’s web page. The web page has a link map to the hospital.
“We are delighted to have a support group in Northern New Jersey for people coping with thyroid cancer, as well as their caregivers,” said ThyCa’s Support Groups Coordinator Sara Brenner.
Free thyroid cancer support groups are also available in Central New Jersey and Southern New Jersey, as well as coast to coast in the United States, and in Costa Rica and Philippines.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization of thyroid cancer survivors, families, and health care professionals, advised by internationally recognized thyroid cancer specialists. The organization is dedicated to support, education and communication for thyroid cancer survivors, their families and friends. ThyCa also sponsors Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, year-round awareness activities, and thyroid cancer research fundraising and research grants.
For more information about ThyCa’s free support services, education, publications, and annual international conference, e-mail to thyca@thyca.org, call toll-free 1-877-588-7904, write to PO Box 1545, New York, NY 10159-1545, or visit the ThyCa web site.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 1, 2008
Contacts:
ThyCa: Cherry Wunderlich, 301-493-8810, thyca@thyca.org
ATA: Jennifer Reising, 703-300-9248, jreising@reisingcommunications.com
Thyroid Cancer Experts and Survivors Collaborate To Provide 2008 Thyroid Cancer Research Grants
(FALLS CHURCH, VA)—The American Thyroid Association (ATA) and ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. are awarding two new research grants in 2008 and renewing two grants on thyroid cancer, one of the few cancers significantly increasing in the number of newly-diagnosed patients.
ThyCa’s grants are the first-ever thyroid cancer research grants to be funded by thyroid cancer patients, caregivers, and friends. The ATA and ThyCa have been working together to provide research funds to new investigators for thyroid cancer research projects since 2003.
“ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association is thrilled to raise much-needed funds for thyroid cancer research and is grateful for the opportunity to work with the ATA. We’re grateful to our thousands of donors and pleased to provide these funds to the best thyroid cancer research projects proposed by young investigators, because more research on thyroid cancer is urgently needed,” says ThyCa Executive Director Gary Bloom.
The grants are open to researchers worldwide. An independent expert ATA panel rigorously evaluates the grant proposals and selects the projects to be funded. The ATA panel is made up of thyroid cancer experts, thyroidologists, and thyroid surgeons. The ATA also supports the administrative costs of the grant review process. The ATA fosters excellence in research, patient care, and education of patients, the public, and the medical and scientific communities. Similarly, the ATA is dedicated to guiding public policy about the prevention and management of thyroid diseases.
“The ATA values its relationship with ThyCa furthering its mission to support research of thyroid cancer and thyroid disease. We are proud of the invaluable public service by ATA members to the research review committee,” said Richard Kloos, M.D., secretary/chief operating officer of the ATA.
The grants support new investigators for a research project in thyroid cancer and +one in medullary thyroid cancer. Research grants, up to $25,000 annually, are awarded for two-year terms, with renewals based on satisfactory progress report from funded investigators in the fourth quarter of the first year.
In 2008, thyroid cancer is expected to reach a record number of 37,340 newly diagnosed people in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the American Cancer Society.
2008 ATA/ThyCa Grant Recipient Renewals – Thyroid Cancer
Krystian Jazdzewski, M.D., Ph.D
Assistant Professor, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland
Visiting Scientist, The Ohio State University
Project: The Role of miR146a in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Krystian Jazdzewski, M.D., Ph.D., and his research team are searching for genetic factors which predispose those to papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). It is worthwhile because an inherited predisposition to differentiated thyroid cancer is very strong, one of the highest of all cancers (3- to 8-fold higher risk for first-degree relatives than in general population).
2008 ATA/ThyCa Grant Recipient Renewals – Medullary Thyroid Cancer
Mabel Ryder, M.D.
Assistant Attending Physician, Division of Endocrinology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York
Project: The Role of Tumor-Associated Macrophages on Thyroid Cancer Progression
Thyroid cancers are richly infiltrated with immune cells, in particular tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Yet, their role on thyroid cancer progression has not been clearly investigated.
Mabel Ryder, M.D., and her research team have shown that the density of TAMs correlates with tumor grade and tumor progression in well-differentiated, poorly-differentiated and anaplastic human thyroid cancers, suggesting that TAMs may be involved in thyroid cancer progression. Dr. Ryder will examine the functional role of TAMs on thyroid cancer progression, on tumor angiogenesis and on tumor metastases.
About ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, a national nonprofit organization begun in 1995 and advised by thyroid cancer specialists, educates and supports patients and families through free support services and education.
Services include its award-winning educational web site, local and e-mail support groups, person-to-person support, free newsletters, the free downloadable low-iodine cookbook, and other publications. ThyCa also sponsors year-round awareness programs for early detection, Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month each September, educational conferences and workshops, and thyroid cancer research funds and grant funding.
The 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference will take place in St. Louis, Missouri, on October 17-19, 2008. Conference, workshop, and support service details are at www.thyca.org. To find out more about ThyCa’s Research Funds and Rally for Research, visit http://www.thyca.org/researchfund.htm.
About ATA
The American Thyroid Association (ATA) is the lead organization in promoting thyroid health and understanding thyroid biology. The ATA values scientific inquiry, clinical excellence, public service, education, collaboration, and collegiality.
A non-profit medical society founded in 1923, the ATA fulfills its mission through supporting excellence and innovation in research, clinical care, education, and public health. ATA members are physicians and scientists who work to enhance the understanding of thyroid physiology and pathophysiology, improve the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases, and promote the education of physicians, patients, and the public about thyroid disorders.
Thyroid diseases are among the most common disorders of the endocrine system, affecting almost 13 million Americans alone. The ATA has extensive online information for patients on thyroid disease (in English and Spanish) serving the clinician as a resource for patients and the public who look for reliable information on the internet. To further benefit patients, the ATA Alliance for Patient Education was formed in 2002 to offer an exchange of information between the ATA and patient education groups: ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.; the Light of Life Foundation, and the National Graves’ Disease Foundation. A public forum is held each year in conjunction with the ATA annual meeting.
Thyroid Research grants total over $275,000 annually to young investigators. Publications sourced by this research and application procedures are available at www.thyroid.org. An ATA national workshop, Frontiers in Thyroid Cancer: ATA Guidelines in Clinical Practice will be in Boston on July 11-12, 2008 at the Boston Park Plaza. The 79th annual meeting of the ATA will be in Chicago from October 1-5, 2008 at the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. All registration and program information is available at www.thyroid.org. We welcome your participation.
In This Issue
- Lotsa Helping Hands—New Free Service
- ATA and ThyCa Issue Joint Press Release
- Clinical Trials: Questions Patients and Caregivers Ask
- Joni Eskenazi Named ThyCa Board Member Emeritus
- Jacob Robbins, M.D. — A Tribute
- Spring Workshops Draw Record Numbers
- Calendar — Coming Events
- ThyCa Exhibits at Medical Meetings and Community Events
- Haiku — Thyroid Surgery
- Low-Iodine Recipe of the Month
- What ThyCa Can Do for You
- Get Involved— How To Help
Lotsa Helping Hands—New Free Service
ThyCa is pleased to be partnering with Lotsa Helping Hands, a free online caregiving coordination service.
Lotsa Helping Hands can help you or someone you love to easily organize family members, friends, and others during times of medical crisis, family caregiver exhaustion, or when caring for an aging loved one.
Whether coordinating volunteers for meals, rides, or visits, or just sharing photos, medical status updates, well wishes, or vital medical, legal, or financial information with the selected members of your community, a ThyCa/Lotsa Helping Hands private web community can help.
This free online service helps you schedule the everyday tasks of your friends, family, and co-workers who are helping to support you and your loved one.
ATA and ThyCa Issue Joint Press Release
Thyroid Cancer Experts and Survivors Collaborate To Provide 2008 Thyroid Cancer Research Grants
(May 1, 2008) —The American Thyroid Association (ATA) and ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. are awarding two new research grants in 2008 and renewing two grants on thyroid cancer, one of the few cancers significantly increasing in the number of newly-diagnosed patients.
ThyCa’s grants are the first-ever thyroid cancer research grants to be funded by thyroid cancer patients, caregivers, and friends. The ATA and ThyCa have been working together to provide research funds to new investigators for thyroid cancer research projects since 2003.
“ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association is thrilled to raise much-needed funds for thyroid cancer research and is grateful for the opportunity to work with the ATA. We’re grateful to our thousands of donors and pleased to provide these funds to the best thyroid cancer research projects proposed by young investigators, because more research on thyroid cancer is urgently needed,” says ThyCa Executive Director Gary Bloom.
The grants are open to researchers worldwide. An independent expert ATA panel rigorously evaluates the grant proposals and selects the projects to be funded. The ATA panel is made up of thyroid cancer experts, thyroidologists, and thyroid surgeons. The ATA also supports the administrative costs of the grant review process.
“The ATA values its relationship with ThyCa furthering its mission to support research of thyroid cancer and thyroid disease. We are proud of the invaluable public service by ATA members to the research review committee,” said Richard Kloos, M.D., secretary/chief operating officer of the ATA.
Read the complete news article.
Clinical Trials: Questions Patients and Caregivers Ask
Now available on our web site are lists of questions and points to consider when looking into participating in a clinical trial of a new treatment of thyroid cancer.
These checklists are useful when thinking about clinical trials for treatment of any disease. They are also helpful when considering taking part in a clinical trial on the prevention, diagnosis, or ongoing monitoring of thyroid cancer or another disease.
Patti Malloy and Clayton and Rose Twigg, ThyCa volunteers in Ohio, have generously shared their perspectives on clinical trials. Patty, Clayton, and Rose also have led many survivor/caregiver roundtables at our conferences. We look forward to seeing them in St. Louis in October, at the 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference.
Read their helpful information and checklists.
Thank you, Patti, Clayton, and Rose!
Joni Eskenazi Named ThyCa Board Member Emeritus
We are pleased to announce that ThyCa Volunteer Joni Eskenazi of Mercer Island, Washington, has been named a ThyCa Board Member Emeritus, in recognition of her outstanding service on the ThyCa Board.
During her Board tenure beginning in 2001, Joni created the role of Director of Fundraising and developed numerous fundraising projects, including the annual silent/live auction for thyroid cancer research hosted annually at the Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference. This important event has netted hundreds of thousands of dollars, which have contributed to research grants for the benefit of everyone with thyroid cancer.
Joni also initiated the Tribute Cards and the year-round Rally for Research. Joni also mentored anyone who stepped forward with a fundraising project on ThyCa’s behalf. Her efforts have inspired numerous other volunteers to step forward with events and behind-the-scenes activities.
Joni’s primary interest is fundraising for thyroid cancer research. Beyond this, she is very interested in promoting and supporting all of ThyCa’s support and education efforts. The commitment and energy Joni has put into ThyCa, especially fundraising for research, has made a big difference for all, in bringing hope for urgently-needed cures for all thyroid cancer.
Thank you, Joni!
Jacob Robbins, M.D. —A Tribute
We are sad to report that Jacob Robbins, M.D., distinguished thyroid cancer researcher at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, for 54 years, and wonderful friend of ThyCa for the past 10 years, passed away on May 12, 2008.
Dr. Robbins, who received his medical degree from Cornell in 1947, was internationally recognized for his research on the thyroid, including pediatric thyroid cancer resulting from radioactive fallout. In recent years, his research focused on the effects over the long term from the fallout from the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear accident in Ukraine.
Thyroid cancer patients in clinical trials at the National Institutes of Health greatly appreciated Dr. Robbins for his expertise and his kindness. One ThyCa member recalled how Dr. Robbins always took extra time to stop by and offer encouragement to the patients hospitalized at the Clinical Center for treatment. Dr. Robbins always made time for patients, whether they were his, or in the care of other physicians.
Dr. Robbins also gave a memorable talk to a large crowd at a ThyCa Conference, on “Lessons from the Chernobyl Accident: Thyroid Cancer and Poland’s use of Potassium Iodide.”
The legacy of Dr. Robbins’s dedication to patient well-being and his many contributions to the advancement of knowledge about thyroid cancer will continue to be remembered and to benefit people everywhere.
Spring Workshops Draw Record Numbers
ThyCa’s four spring regional workshops, drew well over 400 attendees from around the United States as well as from Australia and Ukraine. The workshops took place in Chicago, Illinois; Dallas, Texas; Stowe, Vermont; and Falls Church, Virginia.
Our thanks to the distinguished physicians, other specialists, survivors and caregivers who made these free events so informative, supportive, and successful. If you’re interested in developing a Workshop for Spring 2009, please contact Theresa Wickerham (support_coord@thyca.org).
See Calendar updates.
Every Month
Local Thyroid Cancer Support Groups. More than 70 groups. Meetings are held in states coast to coast, as well as Costa Rica and Philippines. Each group has its own web page. These meetings are wonderful ways to talk with other survivors and caregivers face to face. For meeting locations, times, and contacts, visit our web site’s Local Support Groups page.
June 12-14, 2008
Third Annual Hypoparathyroidism Association Patient Conference, sponsored by the nonprofit Hypoparathyroidism Association, Inc. Location: Legacy Hotel (Ramada Inn), Rockville, Maryland. The conference will feature selected speakers from the medical community, pharmaceutical industry, and government to help increase your knowledge about hypoparathyroidism, what is being done to find more effective means of treating it, and how people with hypoparathyroidism can improve their lives and live with hypoparathyroidism. For more information, go to www.hpth.org.
September 2008
Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month. Sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Find out how you can help raise awareness for early detection, and connect others with ThyCa’s free support services, resources, and special events.
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, October 17, 18, and 19, 2008
St. Louis, Missouri. The 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference. Sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. Conference location: Sheraton Westport Hotel, 191 Westport Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146. Learn from experts and share experiences with others coping with thyroid cancer. More than 80 session choices: The latest research, advances in treatment and follow-up, insurance and employment issues, and coping skills for well-being. More than 50 speakers will include leading physicians and other specialists. The hotel has arranged special room rates for conference attendees for single, double, triple, or quad rooms. Details and the registration form will be added to the ThyCa web siteConferences page.
Saturday, October 18, 2008 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m
St. Louis, Missouri. ThyCa’s 7th Annual Dinner/Auction to Support Research. Sponsored by ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. To be held in conjunction with the 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference. At the Sheraton Westport Hotel, 191 Westport Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63146. Details on the ThyCaweb site Conferences page.
ThyCa Exhibits at Medical Meetings and Community Health Events
This spring, numerous ThyCa volunteers have helped raise awareness and connect others to ThyCa’s free support services, publications, and special events. Thank you all!
A few recent events, and the ThyCa representatives:
- American Association for Cancer Research Scientist-Survivor Program, in California. Joel Amromin, ThyCa Los Angeles Support Group Facilitator and ThyCa Web Site Team.
- American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists 2008 Annual Meeting, in Florida. Leah Guljord, ThyCa Spacecoast Support Group Facilitator, Low-Iodine Cookbook Editor, and Membership and Spirit Items Coordinator, and Jan Halzel, ThyCa Medullary Thyroid Cancer E-Mail Support Group Moderator and ThyCa Medical Advisor.
- American Thyroid Association 2008 Spring Meeting, Washington, DC. Barbara Statas, ThyCa Outreach and Publications Volunteer, and Cherry Wunderlich, ThyCa Outreach and Publications Coordinator.
- National Comprehensive Cancer Network Annual Conference, in Florida. Christine Ciletti, ThyCa South Florida Support Group Co-Facilitator, and Fran Goodstat, ThyCa Volunteer.
- Northwestern University Head and Neck Cancer Fair in Illinois. Jessica Brunner and Tina Stipati, ThyCa Chicago Support Group Co-Facilitators.
- Society of Nuclear Medicine Regional Meeting in Virginia. Cherry Wunderlich, ThyCa Outreach and Publications Coordinator.
- Stowe Weekend of Hope in Vermont. Jaime Toth, ThyCa Southern Connecticut Support Group Facilitator.
- Tennessee Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition 2008 Summit. Sheila Williams, ThyCa Midsouth Support Group Facilitator and Thyca E-Mail Support Group Moderator.
- THANC Foundation Thyroid Disease Course in New York. ThyCa Materials Exhibit.
From the Mailbox — A HaikuBy Diane Schetky of Maine
Thyroid Surgery
My scar smiles at me
From the mirror each morning
Better than a frown
Low-Iodine Recipe of the Month
Tacos
Contributed by Jamie M.
1 pound ground beef or other meat preference
Seasoning Mix:
2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon noniodized salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (more or less depending on your spice tolerance)
1 teaspoon corn starch
2/3 cup water
Directions:
In small bowl mix together dry ingredients, set aside. Brown and drain beef. Add seasoning mix and water. Reduce heat and simmer 2 to 3 minutes. Enjoy!
Jamie comments: “I made a taco salad and scooped it up using the cracker recipe from the ThyCa Cookbook, but I think you can find special tortillas at a health market if you prefer.” (Editor’s Note: Page 40 of ThyCa’s free Cookbook has a recipe for flour tortillas. In the grocery store, look for tortillas made from corn, lime, and water.)
Thank you, Jamie! Your recipe will be added to the next edition of the FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook. Download the cookbook, with more than 250 favorite recipes from more than 100 generous volunteers:
Send your favorite recipe to recipes@thyca.org, for a future newsletter and the cookbook’s next edition.
- Give free information and numerous downloadable publications on thyroid cancer
- Offer support via the Internet, local support group meetings, and person-to-person contacts
- Supply materials on thyroid cancer that you can’t find elsewhere
- Offer you an annual conference and regional workshops where you can meet other survivors, get answers to your questions about thyroid cancer, treatments, medications, and more, from doctors who are approachable and experts in thyroid cancer
- Make available to you, via the internet, printable flyers, articles, and newsletters that give the latest information on thyroid cancer
- Have people available who have been through this disease and are very willing to share their experiences and help you out
Five ways you can help:
- Tell others about www.thyca.org and our toll-free survivors’ line 1-877-588-7904
- Raise Awareness of Thyroid Cancer—Get Free Materials
- Volunteer: We’ll help you find an activity to match your time and talents.
- Become a ThyCa Member: Our thanks to all our one-year members, two-year members, and lifetime members.
- Donate: Donate by mail or online, or give a tribute gift in honor of someone special.
Our thanks to all the wonderful volunteers who are helping ThyCa with awareness, outreach, support services, and special events, as well as fundraising to sustain and strengthen our services and support thyroid cancer research.
ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2008 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Thank you to ThyCa’s Publications Committee as well as Jaime M. and Diane Schechty for writing, editing, and proofreading this newsletter.
The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month. Suggestions for articles are welcome.
We invite you to send News Notes to your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at outreach@thyca.org.
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. We are dedicated to support, education, and communication for thyroid cancer survivors, their families and friends, as well as to public awareness for early detection, treatment, and lifetime health monitoring, and to thyroid cancer research fundraising and research grants.
Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail thyca@thyca.org, call 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit www.thyca.org.
In this Issue
- ThyCa Invites You To Attend Two New Free Spring Workshops
- Person To Person Network Supports Thyroid Cancer Survivors Worldwide
- Conference Press Room Opens
- Watch for Research Grant Announcement First Week in May
- Pediatric Backpack Project Receives New Donation
- Creative Efforts Raise Awareness
- From the Mailbox
- More Than 20 Free Publications Available for Downloading
- Low-Iodine Tip and Recipe of the Month
- What ThyCa Can Do for You
- Thank You for Helping
ThyCa Invites You To Attend Two New Free Spring Workshops
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Vermont/New England Survivors’ Symposium in Stowe, Vermont
.
This special event is part of the Stowe Weekend of Hope for people affected by any cancer. Caregivers are most welcome to attend as well. Receive answers to your questions, and learn and share with other thyroid cancer survivors and their families.
10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Stowe High School, 413 Barrows Road. Discussions and Presentations will be held in the Middle School Wing, Room 112. Please pre-register at www.stowehope.com.
Physician speakers will be:
- Beatriz Tendler, M.D., Endocrinologist and Assistant Professor of Medicine of the University of Connecticut Health Center in Farmington, CT; and
- David W. Cheng, M.D., PhD., Assistant Professor of Diagnostic Radiology and Clinical Chief of Nuclear Medicine of Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT.
Visit ThyCa’s website Conference/Workshop page for further details, program, and directions.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Mid-Atlantic Survivors’ 7th Annual Workshop in Falls Church, Virginia (near Washington, DC and I-495).
You will hear presentations by thyroid cancer experts, receive answers to your questions, and learn and share with others coping with thyroid cancer. Caregivers, friends, and all interested are invited to attend.
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Physician’s Conference Center at Inova Fairfax Hospital, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, Virginia.
Medical Professional Speakers will be:
- Douglas W. Ball, M.D., Endocrinologist, John Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD;
- Lisa M. Boyle, M.D., Endocrine Surgeon, Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC;\
- Frank R. Crantz, M.D., Endocrinologist, McLean, VA;
- Janis I. Halzel, Pharm.D., Pharmacist, Consensus Medical Communications, Centennial, CO;
- Heather Jacene, M.D., Nuclear Medicine Physician, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD;
- Jacqueline Jonklaas, M.D., Endocrinologist, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC;
- Marina Zemskova, M.D., Endocrinologist, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.
For further details, transportation directions or to register for this Workshop online go to ThyCa’sConference/Workshop page . You may also register on-site on May 10th. Walk-in attendees are welcome.
Person To Person Network Supports Thyroid Cancer Survivors Worldwide
In the last few months, volunteers from the ThyCa Person To Person Network have given one-to-one support, matched by diagnosis, to thyroid cancer survivors all around the United States and in Canada, Finland, Great Britain, Hong Kong, Israel, and New Zealand.
The ThyCa Person to Person Network believes that no person should have to face thyroid cancer alone.
We are a support network of thyroid cancer survivors who support the emotional needs of people with thyroid cancer, as well as their families and caregivers.
Wherever you are around the world, we will find a volunteer who has the same type of thyroid cancer, to listen and offer support. Begun in 2000, this ThyCa support service is free.
To find out more, and ask that a ThyCa Person To Person volunteer contact you,
visit ThyCa’s Person to Person page.
We’re pleased to announce that the Online Press Room for the 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’
Thank you to Roselle Kovitz and Mary Catherine Petermann, Coordinators of Conference Outreach, for developing this informative addition to our web site. Visit this page for fact sheets, a preview about some of our expert speakers, and more.
If you are interested in helping get the word out, please contact Roselle and Mary Catherine at conf-outreach@thyca.org.
Watch for Research Grant Announcement First Week in May
At the beginning of May, the American Thyroid Association and ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc., are pleased to announce news about our research grant plans. Visit our web site home page www.thyca.org and the News section in early May for the latest news.
Pediatric Backpack Project Receives Generous Donation
JanSport, Inc., of Everett, Washington, has donated six boxes of beautiful backpacks for the Pediatric Backpack Project. Thank you to JanSport for this terrific contribution!
Tim Clark, teenage thyroid cancer survivor or Auburn, Maine, created the Backpack Project to give support, education, and help to children and youths with thyroid cancer, and to their families.
Each free backpack comes with copies of Tim’s Tips for Children and Teens with Thyroid Cancer, ThyCa’s Free Downloadable Low Iodine Cookbook, the American Thyroid Association Guidelines for thyroid cancer management, ThyCa pill cases, awareness materials, and more.
So far, the backpacks have gone to young people and their families around the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, most recently to families in Georgia, Illinois, and Wisconsin.
Click here to learn more about the Backpack Project.
Creative Efforts Raise Awareness
Volunteers have initiated new outreach efforts in their communities:
- In Maine, Danielle Meier’s artwork on display at the College of the Atlantic honors and celebrates the friendships that sustained her during her thyroid cancer treatment. Our next Membership Messenger Newsletter will have a feature article plus pictures of some of Danielle’s art.
- In North Carolina, Jennifer B. is planning a workplace display for Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month with signs, flyers, wallet cards, and brochures.
- In Idaho, Amber is giving thyroid cancer awareness brochures to her friends and relatives to raise awareness.
- In New Hampshire, Joan is handing out brochures at a women’s seminar at her local town hall.
- In Ohio, the Director of Nursing at a nursing home requested educational materials for staff, residents, and families.
- In Vermont, Macy, age 12, is setting up a display and giving out materials at a Music Fest.
These are just a few of the new outreach projects. Thank you very much to all our volunteers for your terrific efforts!
April 4, 2008
Thank You
To all at thyca.org,
I wanted to take a quick moment to thank you for providing a very informative web site for those of us with thyroid cancer and our loved ones. The wealth of information available on your web site helped me immensely. In addition, double thumbs up for your cookbook. It was a wealth of information; and, made an unpleasant event more palatable. Although support [group] was not available in my area, triple thumbs up to the support you do offer to those in need. Again, thanks to all of you who have made this site possible.
Warmest regards,
Ed G.
More Than 20 Free Publications Available for Downloading
Visit this page for a list of the most-requested materials you can download and print out:, or e-mail us or call toll-free 1-877-588-7904 for copies of free materials.
Low-Iodine Tip and Recipe of the Month
Tip Contributed by Jody G. of Illinois
Last year when I did this diet for the first time I tried the Peanut Brittle with popcorn!
When I got to the light and foamy part I spread it on my salt-free popcorn and let it dry. It tasted better than the Crunch-N-Munch you can buy in the store!
(Ed. Note: The Peanut Brittle recipe follows).
Jody also writes, “Thank you for this cookbook. It has been VERY helpful to me in the past and now I need to follow it again.”
Thank you, Jody! Your tip will be added to the next edition of the FREE downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook. Download the cookbook, with more than 250 favorite recipes from more than 100 generous volunteers.
Recipe: Never-Fail Microwave Peanut Brittle
On page 88 of the Cookbook’s 6th Edition
Contributed by Mary Ann S.
Never-Fail Microwave Peanut Brittle
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup*
1 cup raw peanuts, or use unsalted dry roasted; almonds and walnuts are good also
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon baking soda
Combine first 4 ingredients in 2-quart microwave mixing bowl. Microwave on HIGH for 8 minutes, stirring after 4 minutes. Add vanilla. Microwave on HIGH 2 minutes . Brittle should not get too brown. Stir in the baking soda until light and foamy. Spread on lightly oiled baking sheet as thinly as possible. Cool. Break into pieces.
* Read the label on the corn syrup. It may be salt-free, or it may have a small amount of salt.
Send your favorite recipe to recipes@thyca.org, for a future newsletter and the cookbook’s next edition.
- Give information on thyroid cancer
- Offer support via the Internet, local support group meetings, and person-to-person contacts
- Supply helpful information on thyroid cancer that you can’t find elsewhere
- Offer you an annual conference and regional workshops where you can meet other survivors, get answers to your questions about thyroid cancer, treatments, medications, and more, from doctors who are approachable and experts in thyroid cancer
- Make available to you via the internet free printable newsletters that give the latest information on thyroid cancer
- Have people available who have been through this disease and are very willing to share their experiences, and a caring shoulder to help you out
Out thanks to all the wonderful volunteers who are helping ThyCa with awareness, outreach, support services, and special events, as well as fundraising to sustain and strengthen our services and support thyroid cancer research.
Five ways you can help:
- Tell others about www.thyca.org and our toll-free survivors’ line 1-877-588-7904
- Raise Awareness of Thyroid Cancer—Get Free Materials
- Volunteer: We’ll help you find an activity to match your time and talents.
- Become a Member: Our thanks to all our one-year members, two-year members, and lifetime members.
- Donate: Donate by mail or online, or give a tribute gift in honor of someone special.
ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2008 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Thank you to Pat Paillard, Editor and Contributor, and the others who helped with this issue: Gary Bloom, Ed G., Jody G., Roselle Kovitz, Mary Catherine Petermann, Mary Ann S., and Cherry Wunderlich.
The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month. Suggestions for articles are welcome.
We invite you to send News Notes to your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at outreach@thyca.org.
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.
We are dedicated to support, education, and communication for thyroid cancer survivors, their families and friends, as well as to public awareness for early detection, treatment, and lifetime health monitoring, and to thyroid cancer research fundraising and research grants.
Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mailthyca@thyca.org, call 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102.
Thyroid cancer continues to increase in incidence, and on Saturday, April 19, 2008, ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association will offer a FREE one-day educational workshop in Plano, Texas, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Medical Center Plano, Bldg III, Third Floor Auditorium, 4001 West 15th Street, Plano, Texas.
Ernest Mazzaferri, M.D., Endocrinologist, distinguished thyroid cancer expert and former President of the American Thyroid Association, will be the featured speaker at the Second Annual Texas/Southwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop. Dr. Mazzaferri speak and answer questions about thyroid cancer diagnosis, treatment, lifelong monitoring for low-risk and high-risk patients, and research advances.
This free educational and supportive day is open to people at all phases of testing, treatment, and follow-up for thyroid cancer, as well as their caregivers and everyone interested in learning about thyroid cancer.
The workshop also includes a session on Humor for Coping with Janet Adams, Certified Laugh Leader; a caregiver roundtable support group session; and questions and answers about prescription medications Thyrogen and levothyroxine used in thyroid cancer management.
The ThyCa Dallas Support Group has organized this event. Attendees may register either in advance on the online form or on site at the workshop. Walk-in attendees are welcome. Attendees may come for part or all of the day.
For further workshop information, e-mail Peggy Melton at ThyCaDallas@aol.com or to thyca@thyca.org, or call 1-972-384-1866 or 1-877-588-7904 or visit ThyCa’s web site.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization providing person-to-person support, support groups, the free downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook, free online newsletter, awareness materials, free one-day workshops, and other resources to thyroid cancer survivors, their families, and the public at no charge.
ThyCa also funds thyroid cancer research grants, sponsors Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month in September, and will hold the 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, on October 17-19, 2008.
For more information, visit ThyCa’s web site, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, call toll-free to 877-588-7904, fax to 630-604-6078, or e-mail to thyca@thyca.org.
On Tuesday, April 22, 2008, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., a FREE Thyroid Cancer Public Education Symposium and dinner will be held in Chicago, Illinois, at The Robert H. Lurie Medical Research Center of Northwestern University, Baldwin Auditorium,
303 East Superior Street, Chicago, Illinois. A boxed dinner will be provided to all pre-registered attendees.
This free program is offered by Northwestern University’s Robert Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center and ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association. The event welcomes people at all phases of testing, treatment, and follow-up for thyroid cancer, as well as their caregivers and everyone interested in learning about thyroid cancer.
Topics and physician speakers include:
- Detection and Initial Treatment — Dina Elaraj, M.D.
- Surgery for Advanced Thyroid Cancer — Jose Dutra, M.D.
- Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostics — Stewart Spies, M.D.
- Screening and Treatment for Recurrent Thyroid Cancer — Cord Sturgeon, M.D.
- Hormone Replacement, Clinical Trials and Long-term Thyroid Cancer Management — Peter Kopp, M.D.
The physicians are specialists at Northwestern University. In addition, Tina Stipati and Jessica Brunner, ThyCa Chicago Thyroid Cancer Support Group Facilitators, will provide free information materials on thyroid cancer and the free support groups, one-to-one support services, and resources of ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association.
For more details and to register, go to www.cancer.northwestern.edu/thyroid.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization providing person-to-person support, support groups, the free downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook, free online newsletter, awareness materials, free one-day workshops, and other resources to thyroid cancer survivors, their families, and the public at no charge.
ThyCa also funds thyroid cancer research grants, sponsors Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month in September, and will hold the 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, on October 17-19, 2008.
For more information, visit ThyCa’s web site, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, call toll-free to 877-588-7904, fax to 630-604-6078, or e-mail to thyca@thyca.org.
On Saturday, May 3, 2008, ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association and the Stowe Weekend of Hope will offer a FREE one-day educational symposium in Stowe, Vermont, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Stowe High School, 413 Barrows Road, Stowe, Vermont.
This free educational and supportive event is open to people at all phases of testing, treatment, and follow-up for thyroid cancer, as well as their caregivers and everyone interested in learning about thyroid cancer.
The physician speakers are Beatriz Tendler, M.D., Endocrinologist and Assistant Professor of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, and David W. Cheng, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Diagnostic Radiology and Clinical Chief of Nuclear Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
They will speak and answer questions about Familial Papillary Carcinoma, the Management and Follow-Up of Differentiated Thyroid Cancer (Papillary & Follicular), and The Role of Nuclear Medicine in Thyroid Cancer, including radioiodine imaging and PET imaging as an alternate imaging modality. The Thyroid Cancer Symposium also includes a presentation titled “Thyroid Cancer Is Not the ‘Good Cancer,'” with ThyCa Southern Connecticut Support Group Facilitator Jaime Toth.
Two additional thyroid cancer events will be held on Friday and Saturday evenings. On Friday Evening, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m, Thyroid Cancer Dessert Social (location to be announced later) will offer the opportunity to meet David Cheng, M.D. Register online for the Dessert Social at www.stowehope.com. On Saturday Evening, the Thyroid Cancer Dinner for survivors, caregivers, and friends, will be free to the first 50 registrants. For dinner details, contact Southern-CT@thyca.org.
The ThyCa Southern Connecticut Group has organized this symposium. Attendees are asked to pre-register at www.stowehope.com, whether or not they need overnight lodging. Attendees may come for part or all of the day. For more information about the Thyroid Cancer Symposium and added events, e-mail tothyca@thyca.org or Southern-CT@thyca.org or phone Jaime Toth 203-624-7495 or 203-243-7866.
The Stowe Weekend of Hope offers additional topics and sessions, plus a Health Fair. The Stowe Weekend of Hope is an annual event offering free support sessions and workshops for people affected by any cancer. Details about the Stowe Weekend of Hope, and transportation directions, are available at www.stowehope.com.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization providing person-to-person support, support groups, the free downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook, free online newsletter, awareness materials, free one-day workshops, and other resources to thyroid cancer survivors, their families, and the public at no charge.
ThyCa also funds thyroid cancer research grants, sponsors Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month in September, and will hold the 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, on October 17-19, 2008.
For more information, visit ThyCa’s web site, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, call toll-free to 877-588-7904, fax to 630-604-6078, or e-mail to thyca@thyca.org.
Thyroid cancer continues to increase in incidence, and on Saturday, May 10, 2008, ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association will offer a FREE one-day educational workshop in Falls Church, Virginia, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Physicians Conference Center at Fairfax Hospital, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, Virginia.
Distinguished thyroid cancer experts from Georgetown University Medical Center, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, National Institutes of Health, and Washington Hospital Center, and other specialists will speak and answer questions at the 7th Annual Mid-Atlantic Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop.
This free educational and supportive day is open to people at all phases of testing, treatment, and follow-up for thyroid cancer, as well as their caregivers and everyone interested in learning about thyroid cancer. Featured speakers include:
-
Douglas W. Ball, M.D., Endocrinologist, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD
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Lisa M. Boyle, M.D., Surgeon, Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC
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Frank R. Crantz, M.D., Endocrinologist, McLean, VA
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Janis I. Halzel, Pharm.D., Pharmacist, Consensus Medical Communications, Centennial, CO
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Heather Jacene, M.D., Nuclear Medicine Physician, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD
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Jacqueline Jonklaas, M.D., Endocrinologist, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
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Marina Zemskova, M.D., Endocrinologist, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
Presentations and question-and-answer sessions will cover thyroid cancer diagnosis, treatment, lifelong monitoring, and research advances, including research on papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic thyroid cancer. The workshop also includes survivor and caregiver roundtable support group sessions on skills for living with thyroid cancer.
For attendees needing overnight lodging, a special room rate is available at a nearby hotel, with details on ThyCa’s web site.
The ThyCa Support Groups of Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, and Baltimore, have organized this event. Attendees may register either in advance on the online form or on site at the workshop. Walk-in attendees are welcome. Attendees may come for part or all of the day.
For further workshop information, e-mail to Washington_DC@thyca.org, call Cherry Wunderlich at 301-493-8810, or visit ThyCa’s web site.
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc. is a national nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization providing person-to-person support, support groups, the free downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook, free online newsletter, awareness materials, free one-day workshops, and other resources to thyroid cancer survivors, their families, and the public at no charge.
ThyCa also funds thyroid cancer research grants, sponsors Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month in September, and will hold the 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, on October 17-19, 2008.
For more information, visit ThyCa’s web site, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, call toll-free to 877-588-7904, fax to 630-604-6078, or e-mail to thyca@thyca.org.
In This Issue
- Attend These Informative Spring Workshops
- Welcome to the Newest Texas Support Group
- Radio Messages Raise Awareness
- Clinical Trials Page
- Plans for Zactima New Drug Application
- Rally for Research 2008
- A Special Memorial Event
- Introducing a ThyCa Volunteer
- Nathania’s Creative Outreach
- Conference Lovers—We’d Love Your Help Getting the Word Out
- In Appreciation for Your Generous Support
- Low-Iodine Recipe of the Month
- What ThyCa Can Do for You
- Thank You for Helping
ThyCa Invites You To Attend These Informative Spring Workshops
Attendance at all of these workshops is free.
We know that these workshops will give you information you need so that you won’t feel “in the dark” about thyroid cancer.
To register for any of the workshops announced below, or to get more details, visit ThyCa’s Conferencespage or call toll-free 1-877-588-7904.
We encourage you to register online in advance. Walk-in attendees are welcome also.
Saturday, April 19, 2008 – 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Second Annual Texas/Southwest Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop
at the Medical Center Plano, Bldg. III, 3rd floor Auditorium, 4001 West 15th Street, Plano, TX 75093. Physician Speaker will be Ernest L. Mazzaferri, M.D., Endocrinologist and Past President of the American Thyroid Association and ThyCa Medical Advisor (and other speakers, to be announced). Also featuring Janet Adams, Certified Laugh Leader, and, to answer questions,Thyrogen Representative Edie Dodson of Genzyme and Abbott Representative Patrick Alcorn. Walk-in attendees are welcome.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008 – 5 to 8 p.m.
Chicago/Midwest Thyroid Cancer Public Education Symposium
at The Robert H. Lurie Medical Research Center of Northwestern University, 303 East Superior Street, Chicago, IL. Speakers will include Peter Kopp, M.D., Associate Professor, Division of Endocrinology; Dina Elaraj, M.D., Assistant Professor, Division of Endocrine Surgery; Jose Dutra, M.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery; Stewart Spies, M.D., Professor, Department of Radiology; and Cord Sturgeon, M.D., Assistant Professor, Division of Endocrine Surgery. This event is free and open to the public. Dinner is included for everyone who pre-registers.
Saturday, May 3, 2008 – 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Vermont/New England Thyroid Cancer Public Education Symposium
at the Stowe High School, 413 Barrows Road, Stowe, VT. Physician speakers include Beatriz Tendler, M.D., Endocrinologist and Assistant Professor of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center in Farmington, CT, and David W. Cheng, M.D., PhD. Assistant Professor of Diagnostic Radiology and Clinical Chief of Nuclear Medicine of Yale University School of Medicine in New Haven, CT. Plus Patients’ Perspectives with Jaime Toth, ThyCa Southern Connecticut Support Group Facilitator. Two optional special added events for this event will be a Thyroid Cancer Dessert Social on Friday evening, May 2 from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. to meet Dr. Cheng. Plus, on Saturday evening, a special dinner, which is free to the first 50 registrants.
Saturday, May 10, 2008 – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Seventh Annual Mid-Atlantic Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Workshop
will be held near Washington, DC, and I-495, at the Physicians Conference Center at Fairfax Hospital, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA. Medical Professional Speakers include Douglas W. Ball, M.D., Endocrinologist at John Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD; Lisa M. Boyle, M.D., Surgeon at Washington Hospital Center in Washington, DC; Frank R. Crantz, M.D., Endocrinologist in McLean, VA; Janis I. Halzel, Pharm.D., Pharmacist with Consensus Medical Communications in Centennial, CO; Heather Jacene, M.D., Nuclear Medicine Physician at John Hopkins Medical Institutions in Baltimore, MD; Jacqueline Jonklaas, M.D., Endocrinologist at the Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, DC; and Marina Zemskova, M.D., Endocrinologist at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD. Free event with parking in the garage (Bring the ticket from the garage to the registration desk, for a voucher to cover the parking).
Welcome to the Newest Texas Support Group
This new group meets on the first Monday evening of every month starting April 7th in Fort Worth, Texas. Thank you, Debra Drzich, for starting this new support group!
Find the group nearest you, and meet others in your community.
Call (toll-free) 1-877-588-7904.
Radio Messages Raise Awareness
Three new radio public service announcements are raising awareness of thyroid cancer and the 11th International Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Conference. Thank you to John Breen, WDTV NewsChannel 5, Clarksburg, West Virginia. You can hear these messages by going to either our Conferences page or ourAwareness page.
Visit this page to find links to all the current clinical trials for advanced thyroid cancer of all types. This page also has helpful information for patients if you’re considering a clinical trial.
Plans for Zactima New Drug Application
AstraZeneca recently made public their continuing plans to submit a New Drug Application, for Zactima to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in the 4th quarter of 2008. It appears that the indications will be both medullary thyroid cancer and lung cancer. Zactima is being used in clinical trials for Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC). This drug continues to progress through the stages of clinical research for medullary thyroid cancer. Even if the approval for use in MTC doesn’t come until later, the drug might be available for off-label use for MTC as early as the second or third quarter of 2009.
Please join our Rally for Research as we work toward our dream of cures for all thyroid cancer.
ThyCa’s Research Grants are open to all institutions and all researchers worldwide. Grants are awarded on the basis of scientific merit, regardless of hospital or institutional affiliation.
You will find details on the Rally for Research page.
On Saturday, May 18, 2008, Big John of the Hangin’ Tree Saloon in Bracken, Texas, will host a benefit golf tournament in honor and loving memory of his friend and longtime ThyCa volunteer Megan Stendebach of San Antonio, Texas. He has named the tournament the Megan Stendebach Memorial Golf Tournament for Thyroid Cancer Research.
Megan volunteered in many ways to help others, at our conferences, by composing and sharing songs about coping with the challenges of thyroid cancer, and by organizing several golf tournaments for thyroid cancer research.
Hundreds of thyroid cancer survivors, family members and caregivers, friends, and health care professionals generously contribute their time and talents to sustain and strengthen our free support services and resources. Each has a story to tell, about his or her connection with thyroid cancer. In this article, one of our new outreach and publications volunteers shares her story.
My Story
By Julia McGuire of Virginia
My diagnosis came the summer before my junior year of college in 2002. For a couple years prior, a growth on my thyroid was monitored and a biopsy was taken which came back benign. With no reason to worry, I was always cognizant of the growth but felt relieved by the biopsy. Unfortunately, early that summer, my endocrinologist found that the nodule had begun to grow rapidly, and recommended a partial thyroidectomy to be completed that July.
The surgeon who performed my partial thyroidectomy biopsied the nodule and found that I did indeed have a follicular variant of papillary cancer. I received the diagnosis over the phone, and being young and overwhelmed, I then had a difficult two weeks. I decided to take a short vacation away to take my mind off things.
Upon my return, I had my second partial thyroidectomy to remove the remaining part of my thyroid gland in August, and returned to college in Pittsburgh two weeks later against my parent’s advice. My return home in December was when I received my first body scan and radioactive iodine treatment.
It was a difficult year to balance the diagnosis, schooling, and newfound stress. I found what helped me get through this period in my life was just to make a point to continue on with my life. I wasn’t going to let this get in the way of my future plans.
Through this experience I have learned that cancer can affect anyone, and that people must always be self-aware of any changes that occur on their bodies.
Each year my body scans have turned out negative and I have been blessed thus far to be five years cancer free.
Since I’ve graduated college I’ve continued on with my life by getting married to a wonderful husband, growing my professional career, and spreading cancer awareness informally and formally.
My diagnosis was a turning point in my life that helped me become the person I am today. I take pride in overcoming these obstacles, and make sure to live my life healthily in all aspects physically and mentally.
I believe that the most important lesson out of any cancer diagnosis is to remember to appreciate those who stuck with you and helped you through the very arduous path to health and recovery.
In January 2008, Nathania Johnson, longtime ThyCa volunteer, of North Carolina, entered a weight-loss contest and named ThyCa as her charity for support. Nathania updates her blog frequently, telling others about her progress in the contest while helping raise awareness of thyroid cancer and connecting them with ThyCa’s free support services and resources.
Thank you, Nathania!
By the Way, A Word About My Charity
February 15th, 2008
By Nathania Johnson
Yesterday, I celebrated 5 years of being a cancer survivor. Now, the word survivor can be confusing. I’m not cured yet. I do have traces of suspicious tissue remaining in my body. But they only show up in the blood work and aren’t found on MRIs or Nuclear Body scans, so it’s not life threatening or anything.
The Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association (ThyCa) is a truly amazing organization and I don’t know what I would have done without them. The funny thing about thyroid cancer is how misunderstood it is by the medical community in general. You see endocrinologists, not oncologists to be treated (as well as surgeons and nuclear medicine physicians).
And even then, so many endocrinologists do not know how to treat thyroid cancer. ThyCa helped me understand my disease, know what kind of tests and treatments I should be getting. As a result, I’ve been able to choose my doctors very carefully.
ThyCa has educational programs (including a yearly conference and workshops) and support groups all over the country. They also give money to research efforts.
As I’m writing, the news just reported that obesity can lead to higher rates of thyroid cancer in men. So it’s all the more important that I’m in a weight loss contest with ThyCa as the beneficiary. I only wish I was doing better in the contest. But I did want to take the opportunity to raise awareness.
Conference Lovers — We’d Love Your Help Getting the Word Out
Our 11th Annual International Thyroid Cancer Survivor’s Conference on October 17-19, 2008, in St. Louis, Missouri, promises to be the best yet.
If the conference helped you as it has so many who’ve attended, we’d like to ask for your help in getting the word out.
What we need: People who are willing to work with our small promotion team to send out press releases, make calls, and submit calendar postings to media. Let us know if you have contacts in the media, know of local cancer organizations that would help us get the word out, or would like to provide other ideas and support.
If you are interested in helping out, please contact us at
conf-outreach@thyca.org.
We hope you can come to the conference. You’ll find details here.
And our new Conference Press Room is here.
Roselle Kovitz
Mary Catherine Petermann
Conference Outreach Coordinators
conf-outreach@thyca.org
Our Appreciation to Our Generous Donors
SPONSORSHIP SUPPORTERS IN 2007
ThyCa’s Members and Individual Donors
- Abbott Laboratories
- Amgen
- AstraZeneca
- Exelixis
- Fleming and Company
- Genzyme Therapeutics
- King Pharmaceuticals
- KRONUS
- OXiGENE
Thank you for your wonderful support!
Low-Iodine Recipe of the Month
A Delicious Quick Bread
Contributed by Alice U.
HEALTHY HEART HOLIDAY ORANGE CRANBERRY BREAD
12 ounces cranberries
4 cups flour (as noted below, take out 2 Tablespoons to coat the cranberries)
2 cups sugar
1 Tablespoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
¼ cup canola oil
1 ½ cups orange juice
3 egg whites
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Spray 2 loaf pans with a vegetable spray (or grease and flour the loaf pans).
Wash cranberries and coat with the 2 Tablespoons flour taken from the 4 cups of flour.
Mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites well. Add the oil and juice to the egg whites.
Stir all the above ingredients together just to moisten.
Fold in the whole cranberries.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 60 minutes or until wooden pick comes out clean.
Cool on rack for 15 minutes.
Important! Wrap tightly while slightly warm and store in refrigerator overnight before eating. Juice gradually oozes from the cranberries and makes the bread deliciously moist!
Alice says, “This is an easy, delicious healthy orange cranberry bread, that I make frequently even when I am not on a low iodine diet! I would like to contribute it for the new cookbook.” (Note: When you’re not on the low-iodine diet, instead of the 3 egg whites you may use 2 eggs.)
Thank you, Alice! Great idea also about enjoying this bread even when you’re not on the diet! Your recipe will be added to the next edition of the FREE Downloadable Low-Iodine Cookbook. Download the cookbook, with more than 250 favorite recipes from more than 100 generous volunteers.
Send your favorite recipe to recipes@thyca.org, for a future newsletter and the cookbook’s next edition.
- Give information on thyroid cancer
- Offer support via the Internet, local support group meetings, and person-to-person contacts
- Supply materials on thyroid cancer that you can’t find elsewhere
- Offer you an annual conference and regional workshops where you can meet other survivors, and get answers to your questions about thyroid cancer, treatments, medications, and more, from doctors who are approachable and experts in thyroid cancer
- Make available to you via the Internet printable newsletters that give the latest information on thyroid cancer
- Have people available who have been through this disease and are very willing to share their experiences and help you out
Out thanks to all the wonderful volunteers who are helping ThyCa with awareness, outreach, support services, and special events, as well as fundraising to sustain and strengthen our services and support thyroid cancer research.
Here are 5 ways you can help:
- Tell others about www.thyca.org and our toll-free survivors’ line 1-877-588-7904
- Raise Awareness of Thyroid Cancer—Get Free Materials.
- Volunteer: We’ll help you find an activity to match your time and talents.
- Become a Member: Our thanks to all our one-year members, two-year members, and lifetime members.
- Donate:Donate by mail or online, or give a tribute gift in honor of someone special.
ThyCa NEWS NOTES
Copyright (c) 2008 ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association, Inc.
Thank you to Pat Paillard, Editor and Contributor, and the writers, editors, and proofreaders for this issue: Gary Bloom, Nathania Johnson, Roselle Kovitz, Julia McGuire, Mary Catherine Petermann, Alice U., and Cherry Wunderlich.
The deadline for articles and news items is the first day of each month. Suggestions for articles are welcome.
We invite you to send News Notes to your family and friends. For permission to reprint in another electronic or print publication, please contact us at outreach@thyca.org.
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. We are dedicated to support, education, and communication for thyroid cancer survivors, their families and friends, as well as to public awareness for early detection, treatment, and lifetime health monitoring, and to thyroid cancer research fundraising and research grants.
Contact us for free awareness materials and information about our free services and special events. E-mail thyca@thyca.org, call 1-877-588-7904, fax 1-630-604-6078, write PO Box 1102, Olney, MD 20830-1102, or visit www.thyca.org.