2011 Speakers' Series
Cancer Connections is a professional speakers’ series organized and hosted by the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation.
A local cancer doctor or researcher presents the latest medical information in their particular area of expertise, which is followed by an interactive question and answer period.
Cancer Connections provide participants with an opportunity to learn about the latest in cancer programs, services, research and treatment in a private, small group environment.
Please note as we are busy preparing for our move to our new Cancer Survivorship Centre, there are no Cancer Connections scheduled at this time.
PAST CANCER CONNECTIONS
Thursday, April 21, 11:45am to 1:00pm
Dr. Mark Clemons - Medical Oncologist, Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre
When Dr. Clemons was recruited to Ottawa from Princess Margaret Hospital just over a year ago, he arrived with a wealth of knowledge and a reputation as one of the leading breast cancer researchers-clinicians in the world. He has led dozens of clinical trials evaluating a range of strategies to improve the management and treatment of breast cancer.
His research platform is based on improving the care of patients with early stage, locally advanced and metastatic breast cancer. The focus has been on the utility of tumour and serum biomarkers in improving patient management and outcomes. This transdisciplinary research involves collaboration across the spectrum of clinical trials, basic science, imaging, pathology, bone biology, endocrinology, as well as surgical, radiation and medical oncology.
Dr. Clemons received his early medical oncology training in the U.K. and Canada, including training at Christie Hospital in Manchester, England, which is Europe's largest comprehensive cancer centre. His doctoral studies focused on the ways that breast cancer resists chemotherapy, and the feasibility of suppressing DNA repair systems as a means of overcoming chemotherapy resistance.
Wednesday January 19, 11:45am to 1:00pm
Dr. Dugald Seely – Director of Research, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Did you know that studies show that anywhere from 70%-80% of cancer patients will seek advice and support from a naturopathic doctor, acupuncturist or other complementary medicine practitioner over the course of their cancer journey?
While the traditional forms of cancer treatment – surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are essential for treating the disease, many patients seek additional forms of treatment and therapy to complement these methods. They are taking an active role in their treatment plan, with the goal of not only surviving their cancer, but also to prevent its reoccurrence and experience a better quality of life throughout their illness.
Working in partnership with the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation will be launching an “Integral Healing Program” for cancer patients, with Dr. Seely as the Program Manager. Dr. Seely is a naturopathic doctor and director of research at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. He completed his master’s of science in cancer research from the University of Toronto with a focus on interactions between chemotherapy and natural health products. In his current role, Dr. Seely is the principal investigator for a number of clinical trials. He has published and presented widely and is dedicated to helping build the research capacity of the naturopathic profession. His main interests lie in conducting primary research on complementary therapies used by naturopathic doctors with a focus on integrative cancer care.
Thursday February 10, 7:45am to 9:00am
Dr. Shailendra Verma – Medical Oncologist, The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre, Associate Professor, Department of Medicine at the University of Ottawa and Adjunct Research Professor, Institute of Neuroscience at Carleton University
With an academic specialty in breast cancer, melanoma, and sarcoma, Dr. Verma chairs the disease site groups in each of these areas at the University of Ottawa, and is chair or a member of these groups at the provincial level. He is a principal investigator in numerous research and educational projects at the Ottawa Regional Cancer Centre and the Ottawa Regional Women’s Breast Health Centre.
Dr. Verma is Vice Chair of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (Ontario Chapter), a member of the Board and Chair of its grant panels and several of its committees and a committed advocate on behalf of policy, research and treatment issues as they relate to breast cancer.