Among the more than 450 active volunteers at Roswell Park is a dedicated mother-daughter duo who have made a special impact on patients.

I knew Brian from refereeing ice hockey. Our group of friends had been involved in youth hockey for decades; we were a close and giving community. Then, about 11 years ago, Brian was diagnosed with cancer.

Even if tumors are detected after they become cancerous, colorectal cancer is still very treatable and slow to develop. Patients can take some time to decide which treatments are best for their situation and shouldn’t feel like they need to rush into an immediate treatment decision.

“It’s so important to have conversations with patients when they do have a life-limiting illness. It is the only way to ensure that patients and their families are prepared and that their wishes regarding end-of-life care are honored.”

Chemotherapy can come with unpleasant side effects, including nausea and loss of appetite. Our social media followers shared advice for what helped get them through treatment while maintaining adequate food and nutrition intake.

The artwork in public areas and patient spaces is usually the work of professional artists, but “we wanted to change that."

You never know what’s going to happen when Bruce Baum starts rolling through the Roswell Park hallways with a cart full of surprises. One thing’s for sure — you’ll be amazed and amused.