Session Descriptions

Below are descriptions of the sessions for the 2026 West Coast Conference on Work & Cancer, on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

Click here for the agenda and speaker biographies

How to: Navigate Work & Cancer (9:45 AM PT)

There are many employment-related questions to consider after a cancer diagnosis, and each person’s path will be different based on their treatment, personal- and work-circumstances. In this session, you will hear critical information and practical guidance for addressing your unique needs, including thinking through disclosure, tips for balancing treatment and work, dos and don’ts for an effective job search, communication strategies (including “The Swivel”), managing side effects and so much more.

How to: Use AI Strategically (11:30 AM PT)

AI keeps turning up everywhere. This session will take practical look at how to use it strategically: knowing where it actually helps, like explaining concepts, summarizing information and helping brainstorm questions for HR or your healthcare team, and where it doesn't, like interpreting the law, knowing your employer's culture or making disclosure decisions for you, and more.

How to: Balance Nutrition & Work (1:00 PM PT)

Maintaining a balanced diet while juggling work and cancer is key to maintaining energy levels, managing symptoms at work and feeling better overall. However, between treatment-related challenges (such as restricted diets, medication schedules, etc.) and workplace challenges (such as limited time, stress and unreliable storage options), doing so is often easier said than done. In this session we will explore the unique nutritional needs of working cancer survivors and practical solutions for healthy eating during the workday.