The Greek meaning of evangelist is "bringing the good news." In this podcast, patient advocate and lung cancer survivor Dave Bjork is the host that brings the good news by serving up stories about good people in life sciences who are doing amazing work in cancer research, care and advocacy. He calls them "brilliant but not famous." But all of them are well known in their field and respected among their peers. From academic researchers to oncologists and thoracic surgeons, hear about their work but also their personal stories and passions.

My role is to help bring the patient voice and perspective to clinical trials. The patient journey extends before and after a clinical trial. It’s important to understand how patients want to interact with a clinical trial while also considering that accessibility, site convenience, support, and engagement can lead to improved patient satisfaction. Virtualizing clinical trials can help sponsors incorporate patient preferences into the trial design and implementation, allowing for a more satisfied, empathetic patient experience and a seamless process for the patient, sponsor, and entire trial team.

Empowerment team - working in partnership with pharma clients to co-create meaningful initiatives to make change in healthcare - including health equity, access to care, health literacy, biomarker testing, lung cancer screening and diversity in oncology.

Patient Advocate for Lungcancer.net. Freelance writer and advocate for lung cancer community of Health Union, LLC.

FRAXA’s mission is to find effective treatments and ultimately a cure for Fragile X syndrome. We directly fund research grants and fellowships at top universities around the world. We partner with biomedical and pharmaceutical companies, large and small, to bridge the gap between research discoveries and actual treatments.In my role at FRAXA, I am responsible for all fundraising platforms including major donors, volunteer led events, personal campaigns and foundations. I am also head of patient advocacy and engagement with the biotech industry, actively building strong relationships between Fragile X community of patients and the scientific community. I have long advocated for the important role patient groups play in working with the biopharma industry. I creatively helped our biotech partners enroll patient in clinical trials.

FRAXA Biotech Games™ brings together the Boston biotech community to network in a friendly setting, form new relationships and potential collaborations while raising money for a great cause. Proceeds of the event support Fragile X research in Boston area labs at institutions including MIT, Harvard, Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston Children's Hospital. 2020 Biotech Games going digital and expands to other bio hubs including San Francisco, NY/NJ, Capital Region and San Diego.

"The Cure Forward Precision Medicine Advocates are recognized leaders in the cancer community. Covering topics like precision medicine and molecular testing, the Precision Medicine Advocates help patients become active participants in the treatment decision making process by providing education, resources, and support for navigating the complex landscape of cancer care and clinical trials. " -Cure Forward

Responsible for developing and implementing the infrastructure to diversify donor base and funding sources through the solicitation of major gifts, special events, and corporate and foundation support. Provided leadership and vision to long term sustainability through new donor acquisition and new programs to support cancer research. Managed team of development officers. Selected Accomplishments  * Designed and executed a comprehensive plan for developing key external partnerships  * Secured new donors through effective major gift solicitations, creative sponsorships and special events * Led a major rebranding campaign of NFCR’s Play4TheCure fundraising program that led to a strategic national partnership with the U.S. Lacrosse Association, the introduction of multiple new sports into the program, and alliances with major universities and professional sports franchises * Developed strong relationships with scientists at several major academic medical centers * Collaborated with CEO to develop major gift program for a new Accelerator Fund * Developed trust and confidence of senior management, board of directors, donors and volunteers * Designed and executed the inaugural Cannons Fighting Cancer initiative at Harvard Stadium, raising over $125,000 for cancer research