In the spirit of National Cancer Survivors Day, we asked our CEO, Denene Rodney, a few questions about her Cancer experience. Here are her answers!

Can you tell us a little about your Cancer story?

How has your journey affected how you approach your work? 

I think having cancer humbled me and left me always trying to have “radical compassion” for people.  I remember feeling so scared and lonely but still going to work.  We never know what people are going through, and giving folks grace is super important to me.  

What do you wish someone had told you when you were newly diagnosed?  

I wish the doctor who gave me the news had brought me to her office and explained my options clearly and in detail, but she did not.  I also wish I had someone who had the type of cancer I was diagnosed with to speak with.  Lived experiences are irreplaceable, which is why they are at the center of our work.