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  • Caregiver Group | NeuroendocrineCancer

    < Back to the upcoming events page MONTHLY Virtual NET Caregiver Support Group Meetings Typically the last Saturday of every month 8:00 - 10:00 AM Pacific 2025 Dates: Jan 18, 2025 Apr 26, 2025 Jul 19, 2025 Oct 18, 2025 Feb 15, 2025 May 31, 2025 Aug 23, 2025 Nov 22, 2025 Mar 22, 2025 Jun 28, 2025 Sep 27, 2025 Dec 20, 2025 We provide a safe space where NET Caregivers can come together virtually for support, connection and community. We encourage you to express your experiences, thoughts and feelings in this safe space. Unlike our weekly networking group, our Caregiver Support Group does not focus on exchanging information on medical resources. Instead, we focus on the unique experiences and concerns of caregivers and provide emotional support to those affected by NET. *OPEN TO NET CAREGIVERS ONLY. The zoom link is provided in the RSVP confirmation and will also be emailed to you prior to the support meeting. Questions? Need technical support? Email events@LACNETS.org . *Limited spots available. REGISTER THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTERS

  • Episode 8: PRRT (Part I) | NeuroendocrineCancer

    << Go back to the Podcast page EPISODE 8: PRRT (PART 1) Download a Transcript of this Episode >> Listen to Episode 9: PRRT (Part Two) with the Director of Nuclear Medicine of UCLA Health >> Listen to Episode 10: PRRT (Part Three) with Josh Mailman >> ABOUT THIS EPISODE Curious about PRRT? Wondering what a PRRT day looks like, what side effects you might experience, and what precautions you should take? NET expert and Administrative Nurse Lindy Gardner of UCLA Health answers 10 common questions about the before, during and after of PRRT. Lindy explains how to prepare for your treatment day, what to expect on the day of the treatment, and radiation precautions following PRRT including travel, vaccinations, and fertility and breastfeeding recommendations. MEET LINDY GARDNER, MSN Lindy Gardner, MSN is the lead nurse for the UCLA Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT) program. She is one of the authors of the NANETS/SNMMI Procedure Standard for Somatostatin Receptor–Based Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy with 177Lu-DOTATATE. Lindy earned a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Dundee University Scotland. TOP 10 PRRT QUESTIONS 1. What can I expect on the day of PRRT infusion? What is the day like and what side effects might I experience? 2. What do I need to do to prepare for PRRT? Can I eat and drink normally the day of the treatment 3. What are the side effects after PRRT and how are they managed? 4. How concerned should I be about the radiation I’m receiving and the long-term effects? 5. What precautions should be taken, especially with small children or pets or others in the house that might be immunocompromised? 6. Does PRRT affect fertility and are there issues with pregnancy or breastfeeding after getting PRRT? 7. How should I travel home? Do I need to sit in the back seat of the car? 8. How soon can one travel after PRRT? In particular, when can one get on a plane? 9. Do I need to sleep in a separate bed and if so, how long? 10. Am I immunocompromised after my PRRT treatment? Do I need to avoid getting vaccines and am I more susceptible to bacteria and viruses? ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Read the LACNETS Blog Post "These Four Letters: PRRT" >> DISCLAIMER LACNETS Podcasts are created for educational purposes only and do not substitute for medical advice. The views shared in this Podcast are the personal opinions of the experts and do not necessarily reflect the views of LACNETS. Please contact your medical team with questions or concerns about your individual care or treatment. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

  • Dec2024 | NeuroendocrineCancer

    < Back to the upcoming events page COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO LUNG NEUROENDOCRINE CANCERS This is a 2-session comprehensive guide to lung neuroendocrine cancers. Session A covers Typical Carcinoid and Atypical Carcinoid. Session B covers Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma and Small Cell Lung Cancer. Watch the session that pertains to your diagnosis. Session A: "Typical Carcinoid & Atypical Carcinoid" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owZRDf3ISM4 Session B: "Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma & Small Cell Lung Cancer" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxXdXMKpaCo Click here for the presentation slides from the above video. ABOUT AMAN CHAUHAN, M.D. Aman Chauhan, MD, earned his medical degree from the Kasturba Medical College in Manipal, Karnataka, India, followed by a dual residency in internal medicine and pediatrics at Louisiana State University in New Orleans. Dr. Chauhan completed his fellowship in hematology and oncology at the University of Kentucky, especially focusing on neuroendocrine tumor (NETs). Additionally, Dr. Chauhan completed a Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP) physician externship at the National Cancer institute (NCI) that focused on designing clinical trials and clinical research projects. His clinical interests include treating NETs, including carcinoid tumors, high-grade neuroendocrine carcinomas, and small and large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. Dr Chauhan leads the University of Miami Neuroendocrine Cancer Program and co-leads Sylvester Theranostics Drug Development Program. He is national principal investigator on several investigator initiated neuroendocrine cancer clinical trials. He has authored over 70 scientific publications and book chapters and has received a career development award from NCI CTEP. Dr Chauhan also serves on AJCC and ASCO NET guideline committees and is an active member of NANETS communication committee. Dr. Chauhan is board certified in internal medicine and medical oncology. He is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology as well as the American Association of Cancer Research and the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society. 'OUR CANCER STORIES' SURVEY Researchers are currently conducting an international study approved by the NUS Ethics Committee (NUS-IRB-2023-320) to examine the relationship between emotional well-being and recovery for cancer patients. Our Cancer Stories' goal is to gather anonymous insights from individuals (aged 30-70) diagnosed with prostate and lung cancer about their personal experiences. To ensure the success of this research, they are seeking cancer patients willing to share their stories through an online survey with the option of reimbursement of $20 USD upon completion. This is a confidential, online survey that will take about 30 minutes to complete. Survey responses will be used to create stories that will be published on a website called Our Cancer Stories ( www.ourcancerstories.com ). These stories are aimed at providing readers (e.g. cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and those with loved ones affected by cancer) with information useful in making informed decisions in fighting cancer, while providing comfort and solidarity. Take the Survey The opinions expressed by the guest presenters, as well as the questions asked by the audience, have not been created or suggested by LACNETS or the sponsors of this program. LACNETS does not endorse or promote any of the views, opinions or information provided in this presentation. Audience members should not rely solely on the opinions or information expressed by the guest presenter and should seek guidance and direction from their own medical advisors regarding any choices they make about their health or treatments. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

  • Episode 13: NET Oncology | NeuroendocrineCancer

    << Go back to the Podcast page EPISODE 13: NET ONCOLOGY Download a Transcript of this Episode >> ABOUT THIS EPISODE Is it okay for NET patients to take “statin” medications to lower cholesterol or SSRI medication for depression? How often should full body scans be done? NET oncologist Dr. Jun Gong of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center addresses ten common questions you might ask your NET oncologist along your NET journey. MEET DR. JUN GONG Dr. Jun Gong is a medical oncologist of the Gastrointestinal Disease Research and Carcinoid and Neuroendocrine Tumors Group in the Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute at Cedars-Sinai. His primary clinical interests are in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers with a multidisciplinary focus of care along with colleagues from surgery, gastroenterology, radiation oncology, and radiology. He is focused on translational and clinical cancer research in early therapeutic trials and biomarker development to improve patient outcomes in GI cancers. TOP 10 NET ONCOLOGY QUESTIONS 1. Which is better -- if the tumor is expressing somatostatin on its receptors by DOTATATE scan or biomarker in tissue biopsy? 2. Since the somatostatin analogues bind to somatostatin receptors, can NET patients take “statin” medications for high cholesterol? 3. Is there a link between psychiatric medications and NETS? Can someone with NET take selective serotonin receptor inhibitors SSRI or SNRI? 4. What is the difference between genetic and genomic testing? When would you do genetic screening/testing and when would you do genomic testing/tumor sequencing? 5. Is it possible to find NET markers on serum or blood by using mass spectrum without biopsies? Is there a promising liquid biopsy? 6. How often should full body scans be done to discover metastases to other body parts? 7. Can well differentiated tumors become poorly differentiated? 8. Can NETs produce multiple hormones? Should one try to control any production of any hormones for general prevention? Should we control serotonin production generally? 9. How aggressive should you be to seek out new treatments when tumor burden is stable? (Some patients want to get rid of tumors so side effects of tumors are lessened.) 10. How common is having issues with liver functionality? What are the signs of liver failure due to tumor burden? DISCLAIMER LACNETS Podcasts are created for educational purposes only and do not substitute for medical advice. The views shared in this Podcast are the personal opinions of the experts and do not necessarily reflect the views of LACNETS. Please contact your medical team with questions or concerns about your individual care or treatment. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

  • Episode 4: NET Basics | NeuroendocrineCancer

    << Go back to the Podcast page EPISODE 4: NET BASICS Download a Transcript of this Episode >> ABOUT THIS EPISODE Newly diagnosed? Or need to brush up on your NET basics? Medical oncologist and NET expert Dr. Andrew Hendifar of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center addresses 10 common questions including labs, scans, genetic testing, and prognosis. MEET DR. ANDREW HENDIFAR The current research focus of Andrew Hendifar, MD , is on developing new therapies for pancreatic cancer and neuroendocrine tumors. Dr. Hendifar has helped form multidisciplinary teams that specialize in the treatments of pancreatic cancer, and carcinoid and neuroendocrine tumors. Dr. Hendifar is the primary investigator for several groundbreaking therapies, including radioimmunotherapy for neuroendocrine tumors, anti-inflammatory therapy for pancreatic cancer and novel approaches to cancer cachexia. His national roles include SWOG GI Committee Member and a member of NIH Neuroendocrine Tumor Task Force. He also serves on the steering committee member for the Precision Promise Consortium and chairs the associated Supportive Care Committee. At Cedars Sinai he leads the Gastrointestinal Disease Research Group and is the founding Director of the Hematology and Oncology Fellowship Program. TOP 10 NET BASICS QUESTIONS 1. I’ve just been diagnosed with NET. What do I need to know? (3:45) 2. What do I do now? (4:53) 3. What causes NET? (Did I do anything to cause it? Does stress cause NET?) What makes NET tumors grow or spread? (7:40) 4. Is it genetic/should I have genetic testing? Do my family members need to get screened or tested for NET? (12:34) 5. How long do I have? (15:55) 6. How do I know if my tumors are growing or spreading? (20:19) 7. What labs do I need to have and how often? What tumor markers should I be getting? What does it mean if my Chromogranin A is high? (26:00) 8. What scans do I need to have and how often? Should I be getting a CT scan or MRI? What’s the difference? (29:37) 9. How do I know if my tumors are functional or nonfunctional? (33:17) 10. How can we as patients or caregivers help YOU as our NET oncologist make the appointment go better (or help you do your job better)? (41:24) 11. *Bonus: How might I prepare for the appointment? What’s the best way to communicate? (43:35) ADDITIONAL NET BASICS RESOURCES NET VITALS LACNETS Newly Diagnosed Information & Resources https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2NKM35a46I NETS 101 - Dr. Sandy Kotiah https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLPAgUIq-85n-RDzmx4FMlnn767YTicsHI&v=MLYx_vY4PV0 "What to Expect with a NET Expert Consultation" with Dr. Heloisa Soares https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLPAgUIq-85n9pZE-B5NadOH0Znb1rfjPR&v=q9bgkYB6A7w "Qué esperar de una consulta de expertos de NET" con Dr. Heloisa Soares (Spanish) https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLPAgUIq-85n9pZE-B5NadOH0Znb1rfjPR&v=fCxxPvBM3Eo "Manejo Sintomatico de los Tumores Neuroedocrinos Funcionales" - Dr. Jaydira Del Rivero (Spanish) https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLPAgUIq-85n-RDzmx4FMlnn767YTicsHI&v=WA02D1F48sg "Symptom Management" with Dr. Jaydira Del Rivero DISCLAIMER LACNETS Podcasts are created for educational purposes only and do not substitute for medical advice. The views shared in this Podcast are the personal opinions of the experts and do not necessarily reflect the views of LACNETS. Please contact your medical team with questions or concerns about your individual care or treatment. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

  • Caregiver Resources | NeuroendocrineCancer

    Caregiver Resources Virtual NET Caregiver Support Group 1. Virtual NET Caregiver Support Group 2. Free Health Coaching for Caregivers 3. Organizations Offering Resources for Caregivers 4. Organizing Help/Communication 5. Caregiver Self-Care Resource 6. End-of-Life Planning 7. Resources for Children 8. Learning Resources About Caregiving 9. Patient & Caregiver Stories VIRTUAL NET CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP Join LACNETS via Zoom every month. We would like to provide a safe space where NET caregivers can virtually come together for support and community. Register Here FREE HEALTH COACHING FOR CAREGIVERS LACNETS offers a series of FREE one-on-one telephonic coaching sessions (8-10 total) to NET caregivers within the Southern California region who are motivated to invest in their own self-care. Sign Up Here ORGANIZATIONS OFFERING RESOURCES FOR CAREGIVERS Cancer Support Community Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Springboard Beyond Cancer Cancer & Careers National Cancer Institute Click here to download the "When Someone You Love Has Advanced Cancer" booklet American Cancer Society Click here to download the Interactive Caregiver Resource Guide Triage Cancer Quick Guide to Caregiving Animated Video: Supporting Caregivers (available in English, Spanish, and closed captioning) Caregiving Resources Page Legal & Financial Navigation Program Additional Resources for Caregivers Share Your Story (NETRF) The Emotions of Living With Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETRF) Assistance and Support for Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETRF) Living Well with Serious Illness (NETRF) Livestrong Caregiver Support Oncolink Caregivers Information & Resources www.HelpForCancerCaregivers.org National Alliance for Caregiving Family Caregiver Alliance NCI: Caring for the Caregiver and Taking Time: Support for People With Cancer Cancer Hope Network American Cancer Society: Caregivers and Family AARP - Senior Care Needs ORGANIZING HELP/COMMUNICATION www.mealtrain.com www.lotsahelpinghands.com www.caringbridge.org https://www.abridge.com/patients CAREGIVER SELF-CARE RESOURCE https://www.caregiver.org/resource/taking-care-you-self-care-family-caregivers/ END-OF-LIFE PLANNING LACNETS Webinar - "Meaningful Advance Care Planning as a Gift to Your Loved Ones" EverPlans - To help prepare/plan for challenging times Practical Considerations when providing Palliative Care to patients with Neuroendocrine Tumors in the context of routine disease management or hospice care EndWell Project Five Wishes Hospice Foundation Guide (useful for more than hospice) Death Over Dinner Coda Alliance - Empowering easier, early, end-of-life conversations Click here for Grief and Loss Resources RESOURCES FOR CHILDREN CancerCare for Kids® provides free, professional support services for parents, children and adolescents affected by cancer, as well as information about helping children understand cancer and additional resources. Learn more here. Help with Hope is a support group to the children whose parent has cancer. If you are a parent with cancer and have a child between the ages of 8 and 17, they can attend an online meditation support group with other kids who understand what they are going through, parents are also invited! Learn more here. Kesem is committed to creating a world where every child who has a parent with a cancer diagnosis or has lost a parent to cancer is never alone. Kesem supports these children through and beyond their parent’s cancer with free, fun-filled creative programs and a lasting community. Learn more here. Lynn Lyons helps families navigate through fear and anxiety. Click here to learn more. LEARNING RESOURCES ABOUT CAREGIVING LACNETS Webinar: " How to Ask For, Accept and Get the Help You Need" with Kim Hamer LACNETS Webinar: “Meaningful Advance Care Planning as a Gift to your Loved One” with Redwing Keyssar, RN Listen Now: NETwise Podcast PATIENT & CAREGIVER STORIES Patient/Caregiver Stories Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Now Playing 03. Patient Story - Kimberly, NET Patient • 2025 Regional Patient Event • Arizona • ⁨@NCFCancer⁩ 08:09 Play Video Now Playing A Patient Journey • Aramís Lorié • 2025 NET Cancer Day Symposium 03:38 Play Video Now Playing Living with NET: The Patient Perspective • 2025 NCF Event • July 10, 2025 01:16:25 Play Video Resources for Children Organizing Help/Communication Free Health Coaching for Caregivers Caregiver Self-Care Resource End-of-Life Planning Organizations Offering Resources for Caregivers Learning Resources About Caregiving Patient & Caregiver Stories BLOG POSTS "What Matters Most" - Lisa Yen "What it Means to be a Caregiver" - Beth Voyles

  • Support Line | NeuroendocrineCancer

    Support Line The Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation is collaborating with the Carcinoid Cancer Foundation (CCF) to provide Support Line assistance. The Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation is here to help you and those affected by NET. If you are looking for more specific information than you have found on our resources page or virtual support offerings, please complete the following questionnaire* so we can provide more personalized support. Please allow us up to three business days to respond. We highly recommend reviewing and completing our NET VITALS tool to learn and share the most critical information about your or your loved one's NET diagnosis. *Please note, all patient information is kept strictly confidential and is only used to provide relevant resources. SUPPORT LINE QUESTIONNAIRE Scroll up after clicking 'submit' The Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation does not substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or other healthcare services. The Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation may provide information and connections to physicians, products, services, clinical trials or treatments related to neuroendocrine cancer, but the Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation neither recommends nor endorses any particular healthcare institution or provider. Please consult your medical team about your individual care or treatment.

  • Mar2025 | NeuroendocrineCancer

    < Back to the upcoming events page https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ton887q1R6s Download the Transcript Here >>> Download the Presentation Slides Here >>> ABOUT Learn about PRRT from UCLA's Lead PRRT Nurse Linda Gardner. She addresses common questions about what to expect before, during, and after the treatment, as well as concerns about radiation safety. ABOUT LINDA GARDNER, MSN, RN, VA-BC LINDA (LINDY) GARDNER, MSN, RN, VA-BC Lead Nurse, Nuclear Medicine UCLA Health Lindy has over two decades of Interventional Radiology experience prior to transitioning over to Nuclear Medicine in March of 2017. She obtained her RN qualification in 1993 from John Moores University of Liverpool, (LJMU) United Kingdom, she is a graduate from the University Of Dundee, Scotland where she received her Bachelors, and Master’s of Science in Nursing. In her Nuclear Medicine role Lindy is the lead nurse for the Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT) program, from the expanded access program (EAP) through to the FDA approved commercial program. She has presented this program to a national and international audience; her skills are utilized as an expert liaison for institutions commencing the PRRT program, focusing on the patient experience, education, and therapy administration. Lindy is the nursing pillar lead for The International Center for Precision Oncology foundation (ICPO), with her focus on education, support and navigation for the NET patient journey. She is also the lead nurse for Radioligand Therapy (RLT) for prostate cancer within Theranostics at UCLA, covering both clinical application and research. Lindy is a member of the Association for Radiologic and Imaging Nursing (ARIN), and the Association for Vascular Access (AVA), holding her board certification in vascular access (VACC). She serves as a member of the Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation Medical Advisory Committee and The Healing NET Scientific Advisory Committee. The opinions expressed by the guest presenters, as well as the questions asked by the audience, have not been created or suggested by the Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation or the sponsors of this program. The Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation does not endorse or promote any of the views, opinions or information provided in this presentation. Audience members should not rely solely on the opinions or information expressed by the guest presenter and should seek guidance and direction from their own medical advisors regarding any choices they make about their health or treatments. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

  • Wellness Coaching | NeuroendocrineCancer

    Sign up for a series of free one-on-one virtual coaching sessions available to neuroendocrine tumor (NET) patients and caregivers in the United States. Wellness Coaching The coaching process was remarkably beneficial! When my cancer load increased, and the painful and disruptive symptoms undermined my resiliency and quality of life, my coach helped me set new goals and manifest them one by one. From exercise and meditation to dietary changes, these lifestyle corrections vastly improved my health and well-being during a difficult time. I could not have accomplished so much without it! — NM (NET patient) WHAT IS WELLNESS COACHING? Wellness coaching is an opportunity for individuals to invest time and energy in self-care by going through a personal journey of change with a health coach as a guide. To be clear, coaching is not about seeking or receiving medical advice, nor is it therapy. The role of the health coach is not to give advice, prescribe a plan, or tell the client what to do. Wellness coaching is not about obtaining information about NET. (For NET-specific information and resources, visit our resources page.) Instead, health coaching is a personal journey of making positive behavioral change toward self-care with a coach as a guide. Health coaching is not intended to specifically address the medical aspects of the NET journey. The focus is not on disease management or treatment but rather, the focus is on improving one’s quality of life. The coach guides the client in defining and clarifying his/her own health and wellness goals and helps the client move toward those goals in an incremental, manageable way. “Health (Wellness) Coaching helped me move through a very difficult time in my journey with cancer. It was the support I needed to regain my energy and motivation. I recommend Health (Wellness) Coaching to anyone who wants to build physical, mental and/or emotional strength while struggling with illness.” — Mary Zoeller (NET patient) While the NET journey may be unpredictable with factors outside of the patient’s control, the client can choose to work on lifestyle choices within one’s control that may include nutrition, movement, sleep/rest, mind-body connection, spirituality, environment, or relationships, just to name a few. Through this process, the client gains the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make lasting and positive behavioral choices. A health and wellness coach (or simply “health coach”) can serve as a guide on your journey. By partnering with a health coach, you experience the powerful message that you are not alone. Connecting with a coach and with a deeper community of past, current, and future fellow travelers through groups such as the Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation cultivates and inspires resilience. These experiences positively influence the traveler’s narrative to create one of resilience. My health (wellness) coach has given me a life jacket. My coach, like the life jacket, kept my head above the uncertainty and sometimes murky waters of cancer. Doctors work diligently to save our bodies, my health coach works diligently to save our lives. She is giving us the tools, to not just live in cancer, but to THRIVE through cancer. — Beth DeBlase (NET Patient) HOW DOES IT WORK? Interested parties can click here to find out more information. NCF offers a series of one-on-one telephonic coaching sessions (8-10 total) to NET patients and caregivers within the United States who are motivated to invest in their own self-care. Coaching sessions occur weekly or biweekly for approximately 3-5 months. The first 8 sessions are FREE OF CHARGE TO THE CLIENT. Two additional optional sessions are offered at a reduced cost. Session structure: Session #1: Review the client’s current state of health. Session #2: Future visioning and setting 3-6 month goals. Sessions #3-10: Work toward 3-6 month goals incrementally. Note: This program is currently available for U.S. residents only. Limited spaces available. Applicants will be taken on a first-come basis. Sign up for Wellness Coaching The Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation Wellness Coaching Program was featured in a case study that focused on the effects of health and wellness coaching with an adult cancer caregiver. The key finding showed that health coaching proves to be a viable option for supporting caregivers in the multiple physical, psychological, and emotional challenges they face. Check out the full study published in "The Permanente Journal.” Health coaching helped me identify my roadblocks, pointed me in the right direction for valuable resources and tools, opened new doors, and provided me with action steps to help me make the changes I wanted to make. Thanks to health coaching, I have become a healthier and happier person. — Pam Wagner (NET patient) WHO ARE THE WELLNESS COACHES? National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC), the credentialing organization for Health and Wellness Coaches, defines them as coaches who “partner with clients seeking self-directed, lasting changes, aligned with their values, which promote health and wellness and, thereby, enhance well-being. In the course of their work health and wellness coaches display unconditional positive regard for their clients and a belief in their capacity for change, and honoring that each client is an expert on his or her life, while ensuring that all interactions are respectful and non-judgmental.” Our health coaches have completed a NBHWC-approved health and wellness coaching program and demonstrated the knowledge, tasks, and skills essential to the practice of health and wellness coaching. Our coaches have passed the new Health and Wellness Certifying Exam, recognized by the National Board of Medical Examiners, earning the title of National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC). Our coaches are graduates of the Vanderbilt Health Coaching Program under the direction of Ruth Wolever who serves on the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching , the team that developed and created national standards, and formed a partnership with the National Board of Medical Examiners in May 2016 to launch a National Board Certification for Health & Wellness Coaches in 2017. While health coaches may be medical professionals, their function is solely that of health coach. This means although a health coach may know a great deal about health, in this role, their greatest expertise is in the process of sustainable change. This relationship is different from relationships that clients may have with their healthcare providers. It is not prescriptive in nature. Health coaches are not here to give advice, prescribe a plan, or tell their clients what to do. Instead, they serve as a guide in the client’s journey. Through this process, the client gains knowledge, skills, and confidence to make lasting and positive behavioral changes. I have been blessed to receive care from world class doctors and nurses at centers of excellence for Neuroendocrine cancer. Now I realize that the very best medical and pharmaceutical expertise is vastly enhanced by qualified Health Coaching, which addresses the emotional and motivational components of managing a life-threatening disease. — NM (NET patient) Webinar: Thriving with NETs - How Health & Wellness Coaching Can Help You OUR COACHES LEEANN HAYS RN, NBC-HWC (CST) Location: Nashville, TN Leeann Hays is a Registered Nurse and a Nationally Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach. Her past nursing experience were in neurology, neurosurgery, and neuro-intensive care at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. She later spent years in the pharmaceutical industry learning to network and connect with physicians. Her passion to help others also led her to volunteer with women who were victims of abuse and addiction and help them find healthier alternatives. Leeann chose to become a health coach through Vanderbilt University’s Health Coaching Program because she strongly believes that a person’s well-being is more than the absence of disease and that the heart is capable of holding both suffering and joy. Her area of expertise is in supporting positive behavior change through small, forward steps towards a more fulfilling and happy life. Her interest in the Neuroendocrine Tumor population is to care, connect, and empower patients to discover ways to cope and thrive. Leeann believes that NET patients have the power and ability to use their inherent strengths to improve the quality of their life through self-care. Leeann enjoys spending time partnering with clients to customize and discover what brings unique value and meaning to each person’s life. JULIE OIJALA RN, NBC-HWC Julie Oijala is a Registered Nurse with over 18 years of nursing experience in hospital pediatrics, surgery, intensive care, outpatient clinic, and school nursing including with medically fragile children. She has also monitored vaccine clinical trials as a Clinical Research Associate for the pharmaceutical industry. Julie received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from CSU Fresno. Later she continued studying in Finland, receiving her nurse licensure and certification in Perioperative Nursing. Having lived overseas for more than 20 years through challenging and amazing times, Julie believes it has given her ‘sisu’, a Finnish concept described as bravery, resilience and hardiness. Julie’s interest in holistic health and well-being sparked her curiosity in health coaching. During her training for the Vanderbilt Health Coaching Program, she had the opportunity to coach a few clients with cancer, including neuroendocrine cancer. She is excited to provide health coaching to the NET population so they can realize their internal strengths to find forward momentum with their health and their life. She believes in the importance of the ‘here and now’ and the interconnectedness of body, mind and spirit. Julie loves the outdoors, yoga and being a life long learner. She helps as a caregiver for her elderly parents and enjoys visiting family around the world. KATHERINE SMITH NBC-HWC (EST) Location: Maryland Katherine Smith has been in the field of integrative health and wellness for over 25 years and is passionate about empowering clients to attain their highest possible quality of life. As a health coach, educator, trainer, and mind-body researcher she has delivered health-focused programs and services to children, patients, healthcare clinicians, medical and nursing students, members of the military, corporate executives, and Members of Congress and their staff. She is particularly excited to work as a health coach with the NET population after seeing her mother go through rigorous treatment for Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer and slowly rebuild a vibrant life. Katherine is faculty in the coaching department at the Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH) in Laurel, MD, where she teaches behavior change, motivational interviewing, positive psychology and principles of self-care. Katherine is also a longtime meditator and mindfulness instructor, teaching meditation and mind-body skills at the Georgetown University School of Medicine, George Washington University Milken School of Public Health and through MINDS Inc., a local organization that brings mindfulness into public and private schools in the local area. Katherine received her Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the University of Michigan in 2003 and a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Duke University an 1987. Most recently, Katherine completed the Vanderbilt University’s Health Coaching Program and became one of the first National Board Certified Health & Wellness coaches in the country. An avid reader, runner, and outdoor enthusiast, Katherine lives in Arlington, VA with her husband and two daughters. PROGRAM ADVISOR RUTH Q WOLEVER PhD, NBC-HWC (CST) Location: Tennessee Ruth Q. Wolever, PhD, NBC-HWC serves as Interim Director of the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine at Vanderbilt and the Director of Vanderbilt Health Coaching . She is an Associate Professor of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, with secondary appointments in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and the Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, and an Adjunct Associate Professor at Meharry Medical College. Ruth is the Chief Science Officer for eMindful, Inc. , is a founding member and was the inaugural President of the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching . A clinical health psychologist and nationally-board certified health and wellness coach (NBC-HWC) , Ruth has over 25 years of experience training and mentoring medical and allied health professionals in behavioral medicine, emotional health and coaching. She also has over 25 years of experience designing, implementing, and evaluating behavior change programs for medical patients and those at risk for chronic disease. Internationally recognized for her expertise on mindfulness and health coaching, Ruth studies mindfulness-based approaches to self-regulation and lifestyle change. Her research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health (NCCAM – now NCCIH, Office of Women’s Health, NHLBI, NIDCD, and NIDDK), the United States Air Force, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, industry, and philanthropy. Ruth is particularly interested in the intersection of mindfulness, behavior change, and inter-professional training. I would recommend the Health & Wellness Coaching program for anyone looking for an avenue to deepen their self- introspection and awareness, their personal gratitude and their relationship with themselves and in turn others in their lives.” Health (Wellness) Coaching provided me with the motivation to concentrate on the aspects of my life that have been adversely affected by my health situation. My goal was to learn to manage the psychological, social and personal struggles associated with my PNET in a more productive and positive way. The Health Coaching Program did just this. — Mary Donlevy (NET patient) Health coaching helped me to see that I have the tools within me to navigate the tough days with this disease. I learned HOW to use these tools. I am in control of my life even with stage 4 cancer. Living and loving each day to the fullest is much easier when you can bring yourself back to the moment and be in the now. Health coaching taught me to do this. I highly recommend this process for anyone facing uncertainty. — NET Patient FORMS TO DOWNLOAD Health Coaching Agreement Intake Form Wheel of Health Health Coaching Survey Recording authorization (optional) HIPAA Release (optional) Sign up for Wellness Coaching Click Here to Read More About Wellness Coaching

  • Episode 50: Spotlight on Pharmacists | NeuroendocrineCancer

    << Go back to the Podcast page EPISODE 50 - Spotlight on Pharmacists Download a Transcript of this Episode >>> ABOUT THIS EPISODE What is a pharmacist, and how are they involved in the care of neuroendocrine cancer patients? In this episode, Dr. Amanda Cass, a clinical pharmacist in the Thoracic Oncology Clinic at Vanderbilt Medical Center, explains the unique role pharmacists play—why they’re sometimes called “doctor,” how they support patients starting treatments such as cabozantinib and CAPTEM, and practical tips for staying organized, managing side effects, and navigating medication costs. MEET AMANDA CASS Dr. Cass is a clinical pharmacist in the Thoracic Oncology Clinic at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. She received her Doctorate of Pharmacy from the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy in 2016 and subsequently completed her Pharmacy Practice Residency at Grady Health System and became a Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist in 2017. In 2018, she completed her Oncology Pharmacy Residency at the University of North Carolina Medical Center. Dr. Cass's previous research interests included opioid use in non-metastatic cancer patients after curative treatment and albumin effects on oxaliplatin related toxicities. Her current areas of interest are molecular mutations and use of targeted therapies in NSCLC, immunotherapy in SCLC, and global oncology care. Dr. Cass is the preceptor for the Outpatient Thoracic Oncology Rotation. TOP TEN QUESTIONS: Getting to Know the Pharmacist 1. What exactly does a pharmacist do, and what training do they go through? 2. Why are pharmacists sometimes called “doctor,” and how is that different from a physician? 3. What role does a pharmacist play on the cancer care team? 4. How are pharmacists involved in caring for neuroendocrine cancer patients, both directly and behind the scenes? How Pharmacists Support Treatment 5. How can a pharmacist help when someone is starting a new treatment for neuroendocrine cancer? Walk us through an example with Cabozantinib: how do you guide patients in understanding it, taking it, and managing side effects? 6. Walk us through another example with CAPTEM (capecitabine and temozolomide): how do you guide patients in understanding it, taking it, and managing side effects? Practical Tips for Patients 7. What are some simple ways to stay organized, like keeping a medication list or symptom journal? 8. What practical tips do you share with patients about tracking and managing side effects at home? Access and Communication 9. Who can patients talk to about medication costs or financial assistance? 10. How does someone find a pharmacist to talk to, and is it important to find one with neuroendocrine cancer experience? RESOURCES EXPLORE Cabometyx Patient Care Kit: www.cabometyx.com/resources Questions to Ask Your Pharmacists Medication reminder apps: Medisafe Dosecast - link for Apple & for iOS EveryDose MedMinder - link for Apple and for iOS Pillo - A.K.A. The Angry Pill Box MyTherapy DISCLAIMER The Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation Podcasts are created for educational purposes only and do not substitute for medical advice. The views shared in this Podcast are the personal opinions of the experts and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation. Please contact your medical team with questions or concerns about your individual care or treatment. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

  • Virtual NET Caregiver Support Group | NeuroendocrineCancer

    MONTHLY Virtual NET Caregiver Support Group Meetings Monthly on a Saturday (Scroll down for specific dates) 8:00 - 10:00 AM Pacific Register 2026 Dates: Jan 31, 2026 Feb 28, 2026 Mar 28, 2026 Apr 25, 2026 May 30, 2026 Jun 27, 2026 Jul 25, 2026 Aug 29, 2026 Sep 26, 2026 Oct 24, 2026 Nov 21, 2026 Dec 19, 2026 Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation's Monthly NET Caregiver-Only support group is a virtual space to come together for support, connection and community with other care partners who support, or have supported, those with Neuroendocrine Cancer. Unlike our Weekly Wednesday Support Group for Caregivers & Patients that focuses on medical aspects of NETs, this group focuses on the unique experiences and psycho-social concerns of caregivers. *OPEN TO NET CAREGIVERS ONLY. The zoom link is provided in the RSVP confirmation (received immediately after registration) and will also be emailed to you monthly from Heather@NCF.net prior to the meeting. Questions? Need technical support? Email events@ncf.net . THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

  • Nab-sirolimus in Patients With Well-differentiated Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs) | NeuroendocrineCancer

    Nab-sirolimus in Patients With Well-differentiated Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs) << Back Nab-sirolimus in Patients With Well-differentiated Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs) CLINICALTRIALS.GOV IDENTIFIER: NCT05997056 DRUG/TREATMENT: IV PHASE: 2 STATUS: Recruiting SPONSOR: Aadi Bioscience, Inc. DESCRIPTION: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbA55lS1dhk Dr. Scott Paulson Discusses the Nab-sirolimus Trial This is a prospective phase 2 single arm, open-label, multi-institutional study to determine the efficacy and safety prospective of nab-sirolimus and patients with functional or non-functional, well-differentiated, locally advanced unresectable in metastatic NETs of the GI tract, lung, or pancreas. For more information on eligibility criteria, trial locations, study details, etc., go to ClinicalTrials.gov to view this trial here. CONTACT/Principal Investigator: Aadi Bioscience Medical Information EMAIL: MedInfo@aadibio.com PHONE: 1-888-246-2234 Locations: Recruiting: United States at Texas Oncology in Dallas, Texas 75246 Contact: Christine Terraciano at christine.terraciano@usoncology.com Principal Investigator: Scott Paulson, MD Recruiting: United States at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Newport Beach, California 92663 Contact: Jason Ledesma at jason.ledesma@hoag.org Principal investigator: Michael Demeure, MD Not Yet Recruiting: United States, Denver, Colorado 80218

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