At CQ Medical, we believe compassion and innovation go hand in hand in the fight against cancer. In honor of World Cancer Day, we reflect on the advancements shaping the future of treatment and the resilient individuals who inspire us every day. Our mission is to care smarter—delivering solutions that enhance treatment outcomes while supporting the emotional and physical well-being of patients, families, and clinicians.

This year’s World Cancer Day theme, United by Unique, underscores the importance of a people-centered approach that prioritizes not just treatment but the entire journey of those affected by cancer. To gain deeper insights into this mission, we spoke with three dedicated clinical experts:

• Daniel Speir, Chief Therapist at Willis Knighton Health
• Yohan Walter, Medical Physicist at Willis Knighton Health
• Keith Crowe, Treatment Aide Lead with over 35 years of experience in patient positioning and immobilization

Together, they shared their perspectives on the significance of this day, the breakthroughs that inspire hope, and the human impact of cancer care. Watch the full interview below, or continue reading for key takeaways from this inspiring conversation.
 

 

Why Recognizing World Cancer Day Matters

Cancer affects people from all backgrounds and walks of life. "Everybody in their lifetime has some type of family member or friend affected by cancer," shared Daniel Speir, Chief Therapist of Radiation Oncology at Willis Knighton Health. He emphasized that this day is not only about raising awareness but also about celebrating progress. Thanks to ongoing advancements in technology and treatment, more patients are living longer, healthier lives after a cancer diagnosis.

Medical Physicist Yohan Walter echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of reflection: "It's a great opportunity for clinicians and patients alike to take a step back and reflect on our respective journeys and journeys together." He also noted that World Cancer Day provides a crucial platform to showcase the latest breakthroughs in oncology: "It's a great opportunity to get the word out on the current state of cancer care, as well as on the various advancements that have culminated in the last year, because our field moves so rapidly that it can be difficult to keep up."

Beyond awareness, early detection remains a key factor in improving patient outcomes. "Early detection creates early treatment and better outcomes, and awareness is the critical factor," said Keith Crowe, a Treatment Aide Lead with over 35 years of clinical experience. By increasing awareness, more patients can receive timely diagnoses and life-saving treatment.

The Future of Cancer Treatment: Hope in Innovation

Radiation therapy continues to evolve rapidly, offering new hope to patients and clinicians alike. "In the last 15 years, the technology has changed over and over," Speir noted. Innovations like surface-guided imaging and proton therapy have transformed how clinicians approach treatment, enabling greater precision and effectiveness.

One particularly exciting advancement is theranostics—a cutting-edge approach that combines diagnostic imaging with targeted radiation therapy. Walter explained its significance: "The prospect of combining theranostic treatment with stereotactic radiation therapy is especially exciting because it combines two very different ways of delivering radiation to achieve an optimal effect. It brings radiation to patients that maybe wouldn't have been a good candidate, or it wouldn't have helped them much on its own before."

Having witnessed decades of change in the field, Crowe sees adaptability as the future of cancer care. "As tumors change, we can now adjust prescriptions on the fly, delivering treatment more accurately each and every day," he said. This precision, coupled with improved positioning and immobilization techniques, is leading to safer, more effective treatments for patients worldwide.

The Human Side of Cancer Treatment

While technology is advancing rapidly, one element remains unchanged: the need for compassion. "No technology in the world can replace kindness," said Speir. The relationships formed between clinicians and patients, the support systems created, and the empathy demonstrated throughout the treatment journey all have a lasting impact. “A patient’s wife came to me and said, 'My husband looks forward to his treatments because he gets to talk to you about football. You don’t talk to him like he’s a cancer patient, but as a person.’” These meaningful relationships significantly influence the patients' journeys.

For Walter, some of the most rewarding moments occur when patients return for follow-up visits, thriving and full of life. “Seeing a patient walk through the door for their follow-up appointment years after their original therapy, smiling and waving, is incredibly rewarding, especially considering the condition some of our patients come to us in. After years of hard work, those small fractions of millimeters and percentages we fought for have really translated into making a positive impact on someone’s life and truly making a difference.”

Crowe also finds fulfillment in mentoring the next generation of clinicians. "A big part of the job I enjoy is training therapists and staff on how to improve immobilization techniques. Sharing those little tricks and nuances makes a big difference in patient care."
Collaboration in Radiation Technologies

At CQ Medical, we recognize that breakthroughs in cancer treatment happen through collaboration. Our partnerships with clinicians, physicists, and therapists drive the development of better positioning and immobilization solutions—ones that are lightweight, precise, and adaptable to the evolving needs of radiation therapy.

Walter emphasized the importance of these collaborations: "We rely so heavily on our equipment to bring the best standard of care possible. Having strong partnerships with the people who make these devices allows us to continually improve patient outcomes."

Speir agreed, adding, "If you make a great product, we will be your biggest cheerleaders. Additionally, if you are open to feedback and willing to make improvements, that's even better." This culture of teamwork and continuous improvement fuels progress in the fight against cancer.

A Shared Commitment to Patient-Centric Care

As we reflect on World Cancer Day, we are reminded of the resilience of patients, the dedication of clinicians, and the relentless pursuit of innovation in cancer treatment. The future of oncology is bright, with advancements making treatment more precise, adaptable, and patient-centered.

At CQ Medical, we remain committed to supporting our clinical partners as they continue to provide exceptional care—helping them care smarter every day.