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Walk to End Bladder Cancer

Bladder Cancer Female Focus – Support and programs for women, by women

Join us at our monthly Female Focus Online Support Group

The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network is proud offer our Female Focus Bladder Cancer Online Support Group. Moderated by nurse and BCAN patient advocate Karen Sachse, RN, MSN and oncology social worker Miriam Pomerantz Kadosh, MSW, LCSW, the Female Focus support group and programs will inform and empower you. Register here to be part of our monthly conversation by women for women.

In 2025, the American Cancer Society estimates more than 85,000 will be diagnosed with bladder cancer in the United States. Of those, more than 19,000 will be women. Studies have shown that women are more likely to present more advanced tumors at diagnosis. According to a report published by the National Cancer Institute, the outcomes and survival rates for women with bladder cancer lags behind that of men at all stages of the disease. African-American women have poorer outcomes when diagnosed with bladder cancer.

Awareness is the key: in most cases, bladder cancer is treatable, but prompt diagnosis is critical

Drs. Sima Porten, Anne Schuckman, Kristen Scarpato, and Svetlana Avulova recently spoke about the Realities of Women With Bladder Cancer in an informative webinar.

Make sure you keep up-to-date with all of BCAN’s Female Focus support and programs. Subscribe to our BCAN Bulletin today.

Advice from women survivors

The good news is that in most cases, if caught early, bladder cancer is a manageable disease. There are tens of thousands of women surviving and thriving, even with bladder cancer today. Read some of their stories below.

Thank you

This program is sponsored by AstraZeneca, Bristol Myers Squibb, the EMD/Pfizer Alliance, Genentech, Janssen Oncology and Merck. We are grateful for their support.

Angie’s Story: “I actually welcome the scans. I feel reassured by them.”

When Angie Glender noticed blood in her urine, she immediately feared it was bladder cancer — the same disease her husband had faced years earlier. What began as a concerning symptom quickly turned into a far more complex journey involving a rare diagnosis, difficult treatment decisions, and an unwavering support system. Today, she’s using her […]

Margo’s Story: “When Not Dying Is Enough to Keep Fighting.”

Margo Wickersham’s story is a powerful reminder that listening to your instincts can change everything. What began as a fleeting, easy-to-dismiss sign led her down a path she never expected. Through uncertainty, difficult decisions, and moments of profound isolation, Margo found strength, community, and a renewed purpose that now fuels her commitment to helping others […]

Amy’s Story: “Follow your instinct, believe in your strength and live fully in the present moment.”

Amy Samuel began with unexpected symptoms that led to a surprising diagnosis and a journey that took her across countries, through treatment and into a new chapter of life. Along the way, she faced fear and uncertainty but discovered strength, faith, and the importance of community. Today, she reflects on her experience with gratitude and […]

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