From Empathy to Action: Andrea Anampa-Guzmán’s Commitment to Survivorship Through Care and Advocacy

Advocate Spotlight: Dr. Andrea Anampa-Guzmán

Dr. Andrea Anampa-Guzmán’s experience in health care began in Lima, Peru, where she was born and pursued her medical degree at the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos. Driven by a deep-rooted passion for helping others and making a tangible impact on people’s lives, Andrea found herself particularly drawn to the field of oncology. Her early experiences witnessing the struggles and triumphs of cancer patients ignited a desire to explore this challenging yet rewarding specialty. Her academic pursuits brought her to the U.S. by way of Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, where she performed research in the lymphoma section.

Andrea’s life changed when her father was diagnosed with aggressive metastatic prostate cancer, and she was suddenly launched into the role of caregiver. Balancing her medical studies with the responsibilities of caring for her father in Peru presented significant challenges. “The day my father was diagnosed with aggressive metastatic prostate cancer was a life-changing moment,” Andrea reflects. “It was a pivotal point that strengthened my resolve to support him and advocate for the best possible care.” This experience not only brought her family closer but also deepened her empathy and understanding of the patient’s experience, profoundly influencing her professional practice and advocacy work.

Her advocacy journey was further shaped by the obstacles she encountered while navigating her father’s care. From managing his symptoms and coordinating care to dealing with the limitations of available treatments in Peru, Andrea learned firsthand the importance of being an informed and proactive advocate.

“We had to do a lot of paperwork to get his insurance to cover his medicine,” Andrea explains. “Unfortunately, there are not many clinical trials in Peru that might have helped, and it’s challenging to import advanced medications into Peru.” These challenges highlighted the disparities in health care systems and fueled her determination to advocate for better resources and support for cancer patients and their families.

Andrea’s introduction to NCCS and the Cancer Policy & Advocacy Team (CPAT) came through her advocacy work on social media. Once involved with NCCS, Andrea applied for and was accepted into the Elevating Survivorship program. Andrea planned to use the training and support to develop targeted initiatives that provide evidence-based information and resources for health care professionals interested in survivorship care. Her advocacy with NCCS didn’t stop there. Andrea said that NCCS provided her a platform to connect with other advocates and engage in meaningful policy work. “The CPAT Symposium was a particularly impactful experience, allowing me to learn from and collaborate with other passionate advocates,” she notes. Andrea found attending the CPAT Symposium shortly after becoming a U.S. citizen to be especially significant. This opportunity allowed her to advocate for crucial bills aimed at improving cancer survivors’ care and to build connections with other advocates committed to making a difference.

Her participation in NCCS programs has been transformative, both personally and professionally. Andrea credits these experiences with enhancing her understanding of the policy landscape and strengthening her ability to advocate effectively for cancer patients and survivors. “Engaging in advocacy and policy work is crucial for cancer survivors and caregivers because it allows us to influence the systems and policies that impact our lives,” she emphasizes. Through her work with NCCS, Andrea has grown as an advocate, gaining valuable knowledge, skills, and connections that empower her to make a meaningful impact.

In addition to her work with NCCS, Andrea is involved in various other advocacy initiatives. She serves as an assistant producer of the DEI Shift, a podcast of the American College of Physicians (ACP) that discusses topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in health care. This work aligns with her passion for advocating for mental health, diversity, and equity. Looking to the future, Andrea aims to continue her work in cancer research and advocacy, expanding her efforts to create more equitable health care systems and support for cancer survivors and caregivers. This year, she’ll embark on a fellowship with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Clinical Pharmacology at the Mayo Clinic, focusing on clinical pharmacology in oncology.

Outside of her demanding professional life, Andrea nurtures a love for narrative writing and hiking. These activities, she explains, are essential for her mental well-being, allowing her to express her thoughts creatively and find peace in nature. “Writing allows me to express my thoughts and experiences creatively, while hiking gives me peace and connection with nature,” she shares. These hobbies play a crucial role in helping her maintain a balanced life amidst her rigorous medical and advocacy commitments.

Dr. Andrea Anampa-Guzmán’s experience is a powerful testament to the impact that dedicated advocates can have on the lives of cancer patients and survivors. Her journey, marked by personal and professional challenges, underscores the importance of resilience, support, and proactive advocacy. Through her work with NCCS and beyond, Andrea continues to inspire and effect positive change, demonstrating the vital role that caregivers and advocates play in the fight against cancer.

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