U of I Researchers Empower Cancer Survivors and Their Families Through Advocacy

CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — Everyone impacted by cancer has a story to tell. Now, a team of researchers at the University of Illinois is trying to bring those stories together into a project called “Cancer Voices” – and they’re looking to the community for help.

Craig Richard, a postdoctoral researcher, and Azlan Guttenberg Smith, a PhD candidate, joined WCIA 3’s Kelly Finley in the studio to talk about their project.

The “Cancer Voices” project team is working to interview cancer survivors, family members, doctors, administrators and other medical professionals about their story. Then, the team will weave the stories together into a video clip. Latter, it will be turned into a live performance which will be performed in Central Illinois.

“As a scientist I’m helping other scientists to develop tools to study cancer, but I really wanted to understand how patients experience this, how they experience cancer research, how they understand cancer care,” Richard said.

The focus is on people whose stories often go untold.

“I think it’s a focus on hearing from people whose stories aren’t usually shared and then also on helping stories move to different places. A cancer doctor might not often get to hear from their patient and the deep experiences of their patient. Or, a patient might not get to hear about the true busy, crazy life of a cancer doctor. So this project aims to improve cancer care for everyone.” Smith said.

Interviews will be conducted until the beginning of April. Anyone impacted by cancer — including patients, survivors and family members — are encouraged to contact Cancer Voices if interested in sharing your story. You can learn more here.