Dr. Joshua Lang from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Carbone Cancer Center discusses liquid biopsies, a revolutionary approach that uses simple blood samples to detect and monitor cancer, offering less invasive alternatives to traditional tissue biopsies.

• Liquid biopsies detect cancer cells or materials in blood, finding as little as one cancer cell among a billion blood cells
• These tests are especially useful for monitoring cancer after treatment, detecting genetic changes that cause resistance, and expanding access to advanced diagnostics
• Dr. Lang's research was inspired by his patients' needs, particularly understanding why cancers become resistant to treatments
• Certain cancers show promising results with liquid biopsies, including melanoma, bladder cancer, and colon cancer
• Community participation in research, with almost 1,500 patient volunteers at UW, has been crucial to advancing liquid biopsy technology
• Participating in research studies could dramatically speed up the approval of life-saving treatments – potentially saving tens of thousands of lives
• Modern research participation ensures patients maintain complete control over their samples and data
• Programs like REACH and WiscShare are expanding access to research opportunities in rural and underserved communities

If you're interested in learning more about liquid biopsies or participating in cancer research, contact the Carbone Cancer Center or visit the WiscShare website to explore opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking cancer research.

Cancer evokes mixed emotions ranging from fear to scientific curiosity, especially for those in medical fields like medical physics where practitioners help develop radiation treatment plans and support imaging technologies.

• Medical physics bridges abstract physics concepts with practical healthcare applications
• Screening differs from testing - screening is preventative while testing investigates suspected issues
• Personal experiences with family members' cancer diagnoses shape perspectives on healthcare
• Faith, asking questions, and staying informed help when coping with a loved one's cancer diagnosis
• Early detection through appropriate screenings leads to better treatment outcomes
• The UW-Carbone Cancer Center houses over 300 cancer researchers and physicians

Stay informed about cancer screenings recommended by your doctor, ask questions when you don't understand, and support those experiencing cancer in your life.

Open house intro

What happens when a family of healthcare professionals faces cancer within their own ranks? Ellie, a University of Wisconsin-Madison student who works in a hospital laboratory, opens up about her grandmother's battle with a complex blood cancer diagnosis and the profound choices that followed.

The conversation takes us through the deeply personal journey of Ellie's grandmother, who after just one month of chemotherapy made the difficult but conscious decision to prioritize quality of life over extended treatment. "At 80 years old, you just want to be happy and be with your people," Ellie reflects, capturing the essence of a decision many cancer patients ultimately face.

What makes this story unique is the medical expertise that surrounded her grandmother's care. With both Ellie's mother and aunt working as nurses, the family provided direct care without requiring hospice services—a blessing that came with its own emotional complexities. Through this experience, Ellie gained powerful insights about cancer screening, early detection, and the critical importance of supporting caregivers who often put their own grief on hold while caring for loved ones.

Perhaps the most touching moment comes when Ellie describes gently taking her aunt by the shoulders after her grandmother's passing, reminding her that it's okay to both mourn and acknowledge her own efforts: "You can take a breath, you can take a moment." Her message to anyone supporting a family member through cancer resonates clearly: "Make sure you take care of yourself too." If cancer has touched your life as a patient, caregiver, or family member, this conversation offers both validation and valuable perspective.

Open house intro