Amanda Bridges, Senior Director of Operations and Business Development and Patient Executive at FLASCO, is the proud wife of a veteran who has served for 23+ years and continues to serve, she brings a deep personal connection to the veteran community. Through this dual perspective, professionally in oncology and personally within the veteran community, she identified a significant gap in education and resources for veterans facing a cancer diagnosis. Veterans battling cancer are not only managing service-connected health conditions, they are facing a second, often unexpected, war. FLASCO’s mission is to ensure these brave men and women are surrounded by an army of support during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
Prior to three years ago, no program existed specifically to address the needs of veterans living with cancer. Through the development of the Veterans Living With Cancer program, Bridges and FLASCO have created a vital resource for this underserved community. The program offers free, one-day educational sessions, in collaboration with the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, the VA Health System, the American Cancer Society, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and leading cancer treatment institutes across Florida. This initiative brings together both VA and civilian oncologists, alongside cancer care experts, to provide veterans and their families with critical knowledge and support.
“Programs like this make a tremendous difference for patients who often feel isolated or overwhelmed after a diagnosis,” says Bridges. “By connecting veterans to expert care, trusted resources, and a community that understands their unique needs, we’re giving them not just information, but hope, clarity, and a path forward.”
This initiative is poised to bridge the gap between civilian and VA hospitals, promoting greater coordination of care and emphasizing the power of collaboration in cancer treatment. It also aims to elevate the role and visibility of the VA Health System and its Oncology Divisions, showcasing their strengths and dedication to serving the veteran population. Most importantly, the program seeks to build trust within the veteran community, helping veterans feel seen, supported, and confident in the care they receive from the VA.
Importantly, this program works to improve health outcomes by equipping veterans with the tools and information they need to actively engage in their care. An informed patient is often a more empowered one, and studies show that educated patients experience better outcomes during their cancer journey. By fostering understanding and awareness, this initiative helps veterans make informed decisions and feel more in control of their treatment path.
Program Highlights:
Veterans Living With Cancer will feature expert-led, patient-centered discussions focused on some of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among the veteran population. Each session is designed to empower, educate, and support veterans and their families through every stage of their cancer journey.
Featured Educational Sessions:
- Living With a Hematologic Malignancy
- Living With Prostate Cancer
- Living With Breast Cancer & GYN Cancer
- Living With Lung Cancer
- Living With Colorectal Cancer
- Living With Head & Neck Cancer
- Living With GI/GU Cancer
Supportive care topics, such as:
- Navigating treatment options
- Survivorship
- Clinical trials
- Nutrition and wellness (with live simulations)
- Symptoms, side effects, and pain management
- Caring for the caregiver
- Financial assistance and veteran-specific support services
- VA benefits navigation, including updates on the PACT Act
- “Ask the Experts” live Q&A session
This program is completely free for veterans and their families and includes:
- Complimentary breakfast and lunch
- Exhibits and giveaways
- Valet parking
- Lodging and travel support for select attendees
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Hilton University of Florida Conference Center, Gainesville, FL
Register here: Veterans Living With Cancer Registration
Please help us share this opportunity with veterans who would benefit from trusted education, valuable resources, and strong community connection. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who have given so much for our country. For additional information or support, please contact Amanda Bridges at [email protected]
Media Contact:
Kellie Jordan
[email protected]
SOURCE Florida Society of Clinical Oncology
