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July 2025

 

As July turns up the heat, we are reminded of the importance of staying cool—both physically and mentally. Whether you're beating the sweltering days with a favorite iced beverage or finding joy in small moments of shade, we hope this month inspires you to prioritize self-care and stay hydrated inside and out. We are excited to share fresh perspectives and resources for young adults; inside, you’ll discover inspiring stories, the latest research updates, and events designed to empower young adults navigating the challenges of cancer. Whether you’re a patient, survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, we are here to remind you that you are never alone on this journey. Let’s face this summer together with hope, resilience, and maybe a little extra sunscreen!

Upcoming Seminars & Events

  • Gilda's Club Middle Tennessee Young Adults with Cancer Support Group (IN PERSON) - Monday, August 11. These on-going support groups for people living with cancer who are currently in treatment are held bi-weekly. If you are interested in attending call (615) 329-1124 or e-mail the Clubhouse first. Find the full program calendar here.
  • Stand Up To Cancer's televised fundraising event will air on Friday, August 15th. Donate online here. 
  • St. Jude Walk Nashville to support Childhood Cancer research at First Horizon Park on September 6th. Register or Donate here.
  • Join the ride to fight cancer! Clip In 4 the Cure, a team cycling event led by Nashville’s top spin instructors, will take place at Geodis Park on September 27th. Register here.
  • The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night  to celebrate, honor, and remember those touched by blood cancers on Thursday, October 9th will be held at First Horizon Park. Register here.

Reminders & Resources

  • Supporting Children Through a Parent’s Cancer. Every child deserves the chance to embrace the joys of childhood, even in the face of a parent’s cancer. Kesem offers programs for transformative support through free summer camps, day programs, and virtual meet-ups, giving youth and adolescents a safe space to connect with peers, process their experiences, and just be kids. Registrations are open, learn more here. 
  • VICC’s REACH for Cancer Survivorship Program offers unique services for cancer survivors of all ages and cancer types, regardless of where they were treated. The program provides comprehensive follow-up care and personalized Cancer Survivorship Care Plans to address physical, emotional, and practical needs, whether you're doing well or need additional support. Learn more.

Book Corner: This Changes Everything 

This Changes Everything by Tyler Merritt is a heartfelt and humorous reflection on life’s priorities after a cancer diagnosis. During his cancer journey, which included treatment at VICC, Tyler faced the reality of a ticking clock and the inevitability of his tumor’s return. This life-altering experience led him to reevaluate what truly matters—letting go of anger, embracing forgiveness, cherishing relationships, and living with purpose. Blending optimism, raw honesty, and his signature humor (plus plenty of musical theater references), Tyler’s story offers a clear-eyed reminder that time is precious and urges readers to make the most of the moments we’re given. This deeply personal and inspiring love letter to life challenges us all to live boldly, love freely, and never take our days for granted.

 

Latest Cancer Research Highlights

  • A study published in the journal JAMA Surgery shows data from fluorescence imaging can improve outcomes in head and neck cancer surgery. Read here.
  • If you are a cancer survivor or caregiver with a dedication to assisting researchers in delivering the highest quality science to individuals impacted by cancer and a passion for promoting cancer research advancements, we invite you to consider joining the VICC Research Advocacy Program. Learn more. 
 
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Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, a non-profit alliance of the world's leading cancer centers coming together to improve the quality of cancer care for patients everywhere, and a Comprehensive Cancer Center designated by the National Cancer Institute. For more information, visit www.vicc.org. The information transmitted and any attachments are intended solely for the individual or entity to which it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any review, re-transmission, dissemination or other use or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you have received this material in error, please contact the sender and delete the material from your system.

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