Since 2013 the research advocate group Breast Cancer Research Advocacy Network (bcRAN) has been committed to:
CONNECTING scientists with research advocates who represent the breast cancer population so that research goals keep the patient at the forefront
EDUCATING and increasing awareness about participation in research through community outreach
INFLUENCING research aims to be more meaningful to patients, survivors, and previvors
We are the patient voice in breast cancer research.
Who is bcRAN?
Barb Kleyman – Co-Director
Lois Karran – Co-Director
Steffi Oesterreich, PhD – Co-Director
Priscilla McAuliffe, MD, PhD – Co-Director
Survivors
Previvors
A participant’s role is to advocate for the breast cancer community as a whole.
How?
Advocates participate in:
Monthly meetings that include training, education, and planning
An annual bootcamp: a full day training session to further our advocacy efforts
National, local, and regional meetings and conferences such as Project LEAD with the National Breast Cancer Coalition and the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium
Partnerships in research projects, clinical trials, grant proposals, and reviews such as the SEMOARS study and SPORE proposal
Outreach activities in the community to educate about clinical trials and studies such as a table at Hearts of Steel Dragon Boat Race and Magee Race to Beat Women’s Cancers 5K Run/Walk
Why?
Researchers may never have direct contact with patients; therefore, it is important for them to interact with breast cancer survivors, their families, and caregivers.These individuals are in a unique position to support cancer research, through active participation in research design and review. As well, research advocates learn from scientists.The interactions are mutually beneficial; the learning and influence flows bidirectionally.