Ann Fonfa's special areas of interest include: Complementary/Alternative (CAM), natural and integrative therapies; Informed Choice (consent and more); Lymphedema (LE); Patients= Rights; Quality of Life; Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SNB); Clinical Trials; palliative care, and more as they arise.

Ann believes that it is every persons right to be informed about treatment options including CAM. Studies have consistently shown that a majority of patients are interested in or currently using CAM. Many of these patients do not discuss the issue with their healthcare providers and some are using CAM during clinical trials. In 1997, Ann created the Annie Appleseed Project to provide information, education and advocacy. A more informed decision is a better one, regardless of the actual choices involved.

After her own cancer diagnosis, Ann began the process of educating herself - she has taken Project LEAD and Clinical Trials LEAD (basic training courses), Food as Medicine, Cancer-Guides, and the workshop on Evidence-based Healthcare. She's an advocate on an NIEHS grant on breast cancer and environmental research. Ann has reviewed for the Dept of Defense, the Avon Foundation, the California Breast Cancer Research Program, and Health Website Ratings. Ann is Advocacy Chair for the Florida Breast Cancer Coalition Research Foundation, Florida Field Coordinator for the National Breast Cancer Coalition, and is serving on the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender National Advisory Council for Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Intro to my articles:
From the moment I awoke after cancer surgery, I was committed to advocating on cancer issues. I felt, strongly, that the system was not patient-friendly. In fact I often refer to it as "patient LAST".

I made a list of twelve things I thought were completely wrong about cancer diagnosis, treatment and more. I love to rant. This section will talk about real issues that matter to all of us affected by cancer. And as my partner often tells me - that is almost everyone these days.

While my interest in complementary and alternative medicine is the strongest, I cannot help getting involved in many other aspects. Join me as we explore every possible avenue in a quest to make the best out of a cancer diagnosis, its treatment, and survivorship (for however long we get). I welcome your feedback.