The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center, ASTRO partner to raise awareness of cancer survivorship

As part of its continued effort to give back to the cancer communities in the cities visited during its annual scientific meeting, the Fairfax, Va.-based American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO) is partnering with the Kenneth B. Schwartz Center to raise awareness of cancer survivorship. The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center conducts pioneering programs to educate, train and support caregivers in the art of compassionate healthcare.

The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center, headquartered in Boston, will participate in ASTRO's Survivor Circle exhibit at the Society's 50th Annual Meeting, September 21-25, 2008, at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center in Boston. The Survivor Circle was created to recognize those who are living with the diagnosis of cancer. It focuses on programs offered by local organizations to help patients and their families cope with their treatments. Within the Survivor Circle, there is a place for visitors to view photos of the activities of the Schwartz Center and make tax deductible donations.

"Organizations like the Kenneth B. Schwartz Center are an important tool in the fight against cancer as they help create better relationships between caregivers and patients by doing things like improving communication and helping caregivers be more emotionally present for their patients," Patricia Eifel, M.D., FASTRO, president of ASTRO, said.

Julie Rosen, Executive Director of the Schwartz Center said her organization is very appreciative of ASTRO's support.

"Our mission is to support and enhance the patient-caregiver relationship, and much of our work takes place at cancer centers around the country, so we are thrilled to be part of its Survivor Circle exhibit," she said.

ASTRO is the largest radiation oncology society in the world, with more than 9,000 members who specialize in treating patients with radiation therapies. As the leading organization in radiation oncology, biology and physics, the Society is dedicated to improving patient care through education, clinical practice, advancement of science and advocacy. More than 12,000 cancer treatment professionals are expected at ASTRO's Annual Meeting.

The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center, established in 1995, is an autonomous, not-for-profit organization, which supports compassionate healthcare and seeks to strengthen the relationship between patients and caregivers. The center achieves its goals through public education, training and support. Its signature program, Schwartz Center Rounds, is conducted at 145 healthcare facilities in 29 states.

For more information about the Kenneth B. Schwartz Center, please attend ASTRO's Annual Meeting September 21-25 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center or visit their Web site at http://www.theschwartzcenter.org/. For more information on ASTRO or its Annual Meeting, please visit www.astro.org.