Recap: 2026 Fall Summit for Bladder Cancer Patients and Families

Welcome and Opening Remarks

With Meri-Margaret Deoudes, BCAN CEO.

Getting Started: BCAN Resources for Patients and Caregivers

Learn about BCAN’s programs and services that are designed to support you in understanding and managing your diagnosis, presented by Patricia Rios, MBA, MPH, BCAN’s Director of Education and Advocacy.

Managing the Unexpected Side Effects of Bladder Cancer Treatment

Knowing what to expect can make it easier to navigate bladder cancer treatment. This session explores common side effects associated with different treatment approaches, including urinary, physical and quality-of-life concerns. Experts share practical tips for managing symptoms and knowing when to seek additional support.
Speakers: Arman Walia, MD, Unio Specialty Care; Nataliya Mar, MD, UCI Health

Thriving After Treatment: Tools for Recovery and Rehabilitation

Many physical side effects of bladder cancer treatment can be improved with the right support and rehabilitation. Learn how specialists in ostomy care, pelvic floor therapy and lymphedema management can help address common concerns, improve function and enhance quality of life throughout recovery and survivorship.
Speakers: Davita Essien, RN, CWON, Houston Methodist; Stephanie Ramsay, PT, DPT, University of California San Diego; Kayla Wei, OTD, OTR/L, City of Hope

The Heart of Survivorship: Nurturing Emotional Well-Being

Emotional well-being is an important part of living with bladder cancer. This session explores practical strategies for coping with the uncertainty of recurrence, nurturing hope and resilience and navigating relationships with family, friends and caregivers throughout the cancer journey.
Speaker: Deane L. Wolcott, MD, DLFAPA, FAPOS, FACLP, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Living Beyond Bladder Cancer: Patient and Caregiver Stories

Every bladder cancer journey is unique. Join patients and caregivers as they share personal stories, insights and lessons learned while navigating diagnosis, treatment, survivorship and life beyond cancer.

Intimacy and Sexual Health After Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer and its treatments can affect intimacy and sexual health in ways that are often difficult to talk about. This session addresses common concerns and offer practical strategies for navigating intimacy and sexual well-being after bladder cancer.
Speakers: Krisztina Emodi, NP, University of California San Francisco; Mary W. Dunn, NP, University of North Carolina School of Medicine

Bladder Cancer Care Today—and What’s Next

Stay up to date on the latest developments in bladder cancer care. Experts discuss current treatment approaches and emerging therapies across the bladder cancer journey, helping patients and caregivers better understand their options and navigate informed treatment decisions.
Speakers: Amirali Salmasi, MD, MSCR, University of California San Diego Health; Sandy Liu, MD, UCI Health

BCAN Walk and Gifts

2026 was BCAN’s biggest and best Walk year ever. Together, we raised $1,765,340 (a record for BCAN). Let’s break this record in 2027—next year’s Walk registration will open in October 2026.

Summit Reflection