Highlights From SABCS

The Year In Review - View from the Trenches

by Joan Venticinque, Medical Information & Resource Specialist, Patient Advocate

Reviewed by Howard Kleckner, M.D., Medical Director, Medical Oncologist

At the 47th Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS) held December 10-13, 2024, over 10,000 clinicians, researchers, and patient advocates gathered in San Antonio, Texas. They shared insights and efforts to refine treatments, enhance patient outcomes, and move closer to preventing and curing breast cancer.

The SABCS highlighted a year of major progress in breast cancer research, focusing on personalized medicine and new technologies. The event showcased advancements in understanding the genetic and molecular aspects of breast cancer, leading to more customized and effective treatments. Key discussions included the use of artificial intelligence, liquid biopsies, and immunotherapy, all of which have the potential to significantly improve patient care. While there are still challenges, like selecting the right patients for certain treatments, and testing and confirming that new medical tests or devices work accurately and reliably, the symposium was optimistic about the future. The collaborative efforts and shared knowledge from this event are expected to drive future research and clinical practices, bringing new hope to patients around the world.

At the end of every SABCS, there are two sessions that everyone looks forward to. The first is titled, “The Year in Review,” in which experts summarized the most important findings from journals and conference presentations from the year. The second is the “View from the Trenches, What to Do on Monday Morning,” where panelists share their thoughts on bringing what they heard at the SABCS to the patients in their clinics.

Read full article here.

Get ready for an inspiring morning at thesecondopinion's 8th Annual Breakfast Speaker Event, where we're rallying together to support cancer patients! This incredible event raises crucial funds to provide free, comprehensive second opinions to adults in California diagnosed with cancer.

We're thrilled to announce our keynote speaker, the legendary Dave Dravecky! A former professional baseball player, motivational speaker, and author, Dave's story is one of resilience and triumph. As a left-handed pitcher, he dazzled fans with the San Diego Padres from 1982 to 1987 and the San Francisco Giants from 1987 to 1989.

His journey took a dramatic turn in September 1988 when he was diagnosed with a desmoid tumor in his left arm. After undergoing surgery, Dave made a triumphant return to the mound in August 1989, winning his first Major League game of the season. However, in a heart-wrenching moment during his second start, he broke his arm while pitching. Despite retiring from baseball after the season and facing a cancer recurrence that led to the amputation of his left arm in 1991, Dave's spirit remained unbroken.

Dave has since channeled his experiences into becoming a motivational speaker and author, penning four inspiring books: "Comeback," "When You Can't Comeback," "The Worth of a Man," and "Called Up." While books won't be available at the event, you can grab your copies on Amazon and have them signed by Dave himself!

As a special treat, every attendee will receive a Dave Dravecky baseball card, and Dave will be on hand to sign it, creating a memorable keepsake from this extraordinary event. Don't miss this chance to be part of a morning that promises to uplift and inspire while making a difference in the lives of cancer patients!

Click below or scan the QR code to register. Please register early, as this event will likely sell out.

Your generous sponsorship and philanthropic support of thesecondopinion's 2025 Breakfast Speaker Benefit Event plays a vital role in our mission to offer FREE, comprehensive second opinions to cancer patients. By investing in this event, you empower cancer patients and their families with the essential information they need to make informed medical decisions.

Join us in making a profound impact on the lives of those facing cancer and become part of a community committed to providing patients with clarity, compassion, and hope.

For more information about sponsorship opportunities and the benefits please contact Cheri Livingston at cheri@thesecondopinion.org or scan the QR code above.