Why I am an Advocate: Bill Gannon

I joined the board of the Children's Cause for Cancer Advocacy (CCCA) for different reasons than most, since, unlike some of the other board members, I have not had the misfortune of having a child or grandchild affected by cancer. I bring a different perspective to the organization in that I have been physician in the pharmaceutical industry for over 15 years. I have had a great deal of contact with cancer and the trials, tribulations and the heartache it can cause.

As a physician in industry, I have seen the clear absence of attention to the need for developing new therapies for pediatric illnesses and conditions, although some strides have been made, mostly in diseases other than cancer. The need for more effective, less toxic therapies for pediatric malignancies is particularly acute, and the fact that it has been overlooked results has created a heavy burden on pediatric cancer patients and their families. I see both the need and opportunity to assist CCCA in those areas in industry and in policy that I feel have been so lacking.

I have had the pleasure of being friends with Craig Lustig, our organization's Vice President, for several years. In the course of conversations about CCCA, we agreed that through my work in industry and governmental regulatory agencies, CCCA was a place where I could help make an impact in accomplishing its worthy goals.

During my involvement with CCCA over the past years, I have watched it grow from a group that was knocking on doors and attending meetings to remind the larger cancer community about the needs of children, to a group "leading discussions" and being asked to "sit at the table." Because of our educated and informed advocacy from the perspective of patients and families, CCCA is asked to serve on many legislative panels, national committees and meetings on cancer policy. We bring a strong and articulate voice for children to these forums. We are contacted for opinions and quotes on a pediatric oncology drug development, the needs of long-term survivors and many other issues. National groups concerned with cancer and children's health seek our input and support for their various initiatives.

CCCA's growth and prominence make it especially critical for us, and indeed the entire community, to support the organization's work at this time. I believe that my contribution as a physician and advocate can help accomplish our goals - to change how new therapies are developed for childhood cancer and how survivors are best served.

Bill Gannon joined the CCCA board of directors in 2004 and lends his expertise and insight as a former clinical researcher in the pharmaceutical industry.