CANVES hosts first bladder cancer patient day in Madrid

Today, CANVES (Alianza por el cáncer de vejiga en España) held its first Bladder Cancer Patient Day in Madrid, bringing together patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocates to share experiences, foster dialogue, and strengthen collaboration.

Representing the World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition (WBCPC), Alex Filicevas and Marie Magenhann Cueto joined the event. Alex opened the session by reflecting on the role CANVES played at the 2022 World Bladder Cancer Patient Forum in Madrid, where its founders first connected with the global patient community.

Marie presented on the importance of patient organisations, introducing the work of WBCPC and its global network of 16 member organisations across six continents. She shared findings from the Global Patient Experience Survey, which highlighted key challenges patients face after diagnosis, including limited emotional support and lack of access to information about support groups. She also showcased examples of peer support, policy advocacy, and awareness-raising from WBCPC members such as Fight Bladder Cancer (UK), BEAT Bladder Cancer Australia, Bladder Cancer Canada, and Cancer Vessie France.

It was especially valuable to hear directly from members of the Spanish bladder cancer community. Patients shared personal stories of their diagnosis and treatment journeys, while healthcare professionals spoke about the importance of improving communication and support throughout care. These contributions offered a strong reminder of the shared commitment to improving outcomes and the value of listening and learning from different perspectives.

Marie also highlighted how CANVES used WBCPC’s Startup Guide for bladder cancer patient groups to develop the association, showing how local action can be supported through global tools and collaboration.

This first Patient Day is a significant step in growing a stronger, more connected bladder cancer community in Spain. Congratulations to CANVES for creating a space to listen, learn, and move forward together.