In this episode, David Dickens, MD, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Iowa and Clinical Director of Pediatric Oncology Services, sits down with Anthony Gallonio, co-founder of the National GRACE Foundation, to discuss how the foundation supports AYA (Adolescent and Young Adult) cancer patients in navigating education.

The journey to continuing education can be difficult, especially for students balancing school, treatments, and life’s everyday challenges. Anthony shares how the National GRACE Foundation provides advocacy, guidance, and resources to help AYA patients navigate educational opportunities and succeed academically.

Anthony and his wife Michelle, started the National GRACE Foundation, inspired by their daughter Grace’s cancer journey, as a way to give back to the community that supported their family during that time.

This conversation highlights the importance of guidance, advocacy, and structured support in helping AYA patients pursue their educational goals despite the challenges of cancer.

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about the National GRACE Foundation: https://graceamerica.org/
• Get involved or support their programs: https://graceamerica.org/donate/

Dr. David Dickens of the University of Iowa joins Kristin Smith, program manager for fertility preservation at Northwestern Medicine's Center for Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, to discuss the unique challenge of fertility preservation faced by young adults with cancer. Listen in for an enlightening conversation that explores the significance of fertility preservation, common barriers, and strategies to overcome them.

Dr. David Dickens from the University of Iowa talks with Helaina Hillyard, an adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivor, about her experiences. Listen in as Helaina shares her journey, discussing the unique challenges of facing cancer as a young adult. Tune in for an insightful and heartfelt conversation about hope, resilience, and the realities of navigating life with cancer.

Dr. David Dickens of the University of Iowa and Dr. Michael Roth of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center share insights on adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer and why research and survivorship are important considerations for this age group that is often overlooked in discussions about cancer.