Novartis participates in Healthway Cancer Care Hospital 'Celebrating Strength' Event Championing Breast Cancer Survivorship

• In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Healthway Cancer Care Hospital hosted the "Celebrating Strength: A Day for Breast Cancer Patients" last October 28, 2024. 
• Bringing together oncologists, surgeons, breast cancer survivors, advocates, and partners including Novartis, the event highlighted the importance of community support, personalized care, and empowerment through innovation and improving access to breast cancer educational resources. It also featured the launch of ThinkPink, an interactive online patient resources that aims to help patients on their journey toward healing.

In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Novartis and Healthway Cancer Care Hospital hosted the "Celebrating Strength: A Day for Breast Cancer Patients" last October 28, 2024. 

Bringing together oncologists, surgeons, breast cancer survivors, advocates, and partners including Novartis, the event highlighted the importance of community support, personalized care, and empowerment through innovation and improving access to breast cancer educational resources. It also featured the launch of ThinkPink, an interactive online patient resources that aims to help patients on their journey toward healing. 

During the panel discussion, experts provided a comprehensive overview of treatment options, including hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. They also emphasized the importance of personalized care, early detection, and the critical role of emotional support throughout the treatment journey.

Emphasizing personalized care and early detection

Dr. Aldine Astrid Basa, a breast surgeon and the Head of the Center of Excellence for Breast Cancer at Healthway, highlighted advancements in breast-conserving surgeries and reconstructive techniques that have significantly improved patient outcomes and quality of life. 

"We offer many treatment options—including those that preserve the breast and your sense of self," said Dr. Basa. "Early detection and immediate care are crucial, and at Healthway, we have a dedicated breast center where patients can receive comprehensive support and treatment."

She encouraged women to prioritize regular screenings and seek medical attention promptly if they notice any changes in their breasts, such as lumps and discoloration.

Managing side effects and encouraging open communication

Radiation oncologist Dr. Lori Belle Lofranco stressed the importance of patient communication throughout the treatment journey, especially when dealing with treatment side effects. "We can provide medications and strategies to manage side effects, but it's crucial for patients to inform us about what they're experiencing." She advised patients to maintain open dialogues with their healthcare team to tailor treatments effectively.

"The more you know about something, the less you fear it," said Dr. Danielle Leonardo, a board-certified internist and oncologist. She encouraged patients to ask questions and actively engage with their healthcare team to better navigate their journey.

Impacting lives through community and support

A key theme of the event was the importance of community support and seeking help from those who understand the journey firsthand.

Ms. Victoria Arjona, a 16-year breast cancer survivor and senior volunteer at the ICanServe Foundation—a breast cancer support organization—shared her personal story of triumph against breast cancer.

"When I was diagnosed, I was juggling my roles as a wife, mother of four, and professional," she recounted. "The journey was challenging, but reaching out to support groups like ICanServe made a tremendous difference."

She emphasized the transformative impact of connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences. "Don't be afraid to share your story. More people praying for you and supporting you can uplift your spirit," Ms. Arjona said.

Dr. Basa echoed the importance of seeking cancer survivorship communities. "They truly know what you're going through," she stated. "Even with the best family support, there's something unique that fellow survivors can offer."

Think innovation, ThinkPink

Signaling a significant step forward in providing accessible support and information to breast cancer patients, Novartis has launched ThinkPink, an interactive website offering extensive educational resources about breast cancer types, stages, and treatment options.

"Breast cancer is not a death sentence; it's just part of your story," said Bing Sonsona, Communications and Patient Advocacy Manager at Novartis. "This realization inspired us to create the ThinkPink website—a portal designed to accompany breast cancer patients on their journey and help them find the support and resources they need."

ThinkPink is designed to help users make informed decisions and encourage proactive health behaviors. It features an interactive self-assessment tool to help patients understand their symptoms and identify potential risk factors. 

"Celebrating Strength: A Day for Breast Cancer Patients” demonstrates the collaborative efforts of Novartis, Healthway Cancer Care Hospital, and other partners in championing breast cancer survivorship. Through innovative resources like the ThinkPink portal, they aim to empower patients at every step of their journey.

Visit the ThinkPink website to access the breast cancer self-assessment tool and other resources at https://thinkpink.ph/