Caring for the Caregiver: Whole-Person Support for the Ones Who Hold It All Together
If you’re caring for someone with cancer, we want to start with this: You matter. Deeply. Whether you’re a partner, sibling, adult child, best friend, or simply someone who stepped up when life called for it—you are doing something extraordinary. And often, it comes at a quiet cost. At Ardynn, we support the person with […]
Advancing Health Equity in Cancer Care: Why Trust and Advocacy Matter
Despite major breakthroughs in cancer treatment and early detection, stark disparities in outcomes persist—and for many communities, they’re getting worse, not better. Black Americans, for example, continue to experience the highest cancer death rates of any racial or ethnic group in the U.S. (American Cancer Society, 2024). Hispanic and Native American populations are more likely […]
When Patients Lead, Outcomes Improve
A cancer diagnosis brings more than medical decisions—it brings fear, uncertainty, and often, a feeling of lost control. But when people are invited to lead their treatment decisions, everything shifts. At Ardynn, we hear it all the time: “I didn’t know I could say no.”“I just wanted someone to explain it in a way that […]
When Treatment Reflects What Matters Most
After a cancer diagnosis, one of the first things many people hear is a list of treatment options. Surgery. Chemo. Radiation. Targeted therapy. Each comes with its own risks, benefits, and tradeoffs. But what’s often missing in these conversations is the question:What matters most to you? One of our members, a 67-year-old man living with […]
How to Have Tough Conversations About Cancer with Your Family and Friends
A cancer diagnosis changes everything—and often, one of the hardest parts is having to tell the people you love. These conversations can be deeply emotional, sometimes awkward, and often overwhelming. But they’re also essential. Sharing your diagnosis can help you build the support system you’ll need throughout your journey. At Ardynn, we often hear: “I […]
Best Ways to Support a Loved One with Cancer
When a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, it can be a challenging time for everyone involved. As a friend or family member, you may feel unsure about how best to support them. The journey through cancer is deeply personal and complex, but your support can make a significant difference. Here are some thoughtful and […]
Optimizing Conversations with People Facing Cancer: A Clinician’s Guide
In cancer care, communication is more than just a means of delivering information—it’s a critical part of treatment. The way we talk with our patients impacts how they process their diagnosis, engage with care plans, and ultimately, how they experience their journey. At Ardynn, we work closely with both patients and providers, and we’ve seen […]
Your Preferences and Values Matter When It Comes to Treatment Decisions
When faced with a medical diagnosis, especially a serious one, making treatment decisions can be overwhelming. In these moments, it’s crucial to remember that your preferences and values play a central role in shaping your treatment journey. Medical decisions are not one-size-fits-all, and incorporating your personal beliefs, lifestyle, and goals can lead to better health […]
Confronting Racial Disparities in Cancer Care
Not everyone experiences cancer the same way. While the disease itself doesn’t discriminate, the systems surrounding diagnosis, treatment, and support too often do. Racial disparities in cancer care are a longstanding and unacceptable reality—affecting when cancer is found, what treatments are offered, and ultimately, who survives. This isn’t just a question of fairness. It’s a […]
The Benefits of Shared Decision Making in Healthcare
In the realm of healthcare, shared decision-making (SDM) has emerged as a transformative approach that empowers patients to actively participate in their care journey alongside healthcare professionals. This collaborative process involves patients, their families, and healthcare providers working together to make informed decisions that align with patients’ values, preferences, and unique circumstances. In this blog […]
