Stomach Cancer Patient Empowerment Summit in Washington, DC | February 8-11, 2025

Join Us for the 3rd Stomach Cancer Patient Empowerment Summit & 2nd Gastric Cancer Advocacy on Capitol Hill Day

Be part of the 3rd Stomach Cancer Patient Empowerment Summit and the 2nd Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill. Moreover, this event is dedicated to empowering patients, caregivers, and advocates to amplify their voices and shape the future of gastric cancer care and research.

Date & Venue

Mark your calendar for this impactful event! The Stomach Cancer Patient Empowerment Summit will take place from February 8-10, 2025, followed by the Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day on February 11, 2025.

      • Summit: February 8-10, 2025
      • Advocacy Day: February 11, 2025
      • Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Washington DC – Crystal City 
      • Address: 300 Army Navy Dr, Arlington, VA 22202
      • Theme: “Amplify Your Voice, Shape the Future”

About the Events

  1. 2nd Stomach Cancer Patient Empowerment Summit (February 8-10, 2025):

The 3rd Stomach Cancer Patient Empowerment Summit is designed to empower patients, caregivers, and advocates to take charge of their health journeys. Our mission is to reduce racial and socioeconomic health disparities by educating and mobilizing participants, driving systemic change, and ensuring that every patient receives equitable, high-quality care—regardless of race or income.

Event Details:

      • Start Date: February 8, 2025, at 4 PM EST
      • End Date: February 10, 2025, at 3 PM EST
      • Participation: In-person event | Portions of the educational component will be live streamed.
  1. 2nd Gastric Cancer Advocacy on Capitol Hill Day (February 11, 2025):

Stomach Cancer Disparity and Advocacy Training: February 10, 2025, at 4 PM EST
Capitol Hill Day: February 11, 2025, starting at 8 AM EST to 3:30 PM EST

This event is dedicated to advocating for policy change and raising awareness about stomach cancer at the highest levels of government. On February 10, participants will receive specialized training focused on addressing stomach cancer disparities, preparing them to effectively advocate for change. The following day, February 11, participants will head to Capitol Hill to meet with legislators and policymakers. In addition, these meetings will emphasize the importance of early detection, prevention, and equitable treatment for stomach cancer. By joining forces, we aim to influence policy decisions that can lead to better outcomes for all patients.

Event Details:

      • Training Date: February 10, 2025
      • Advocacy Day Date: February 11, 2025
      • Location: Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.
      • Participation: Open to summit attendees and additional advocates who are passionate about driving change.

Why Attend?

      • Raise Awareness: Personal stories humanize the impact of stomach cancer, attracting more support and resources.
      • Encourage Advocacy: Empowering individuals to share their experiences can inspire others to push for better treatment and policy changes.
      • Promote Health Equity: Highlight disparities in care to ensure all patients have access to equitable healthcare.
      • Foster Community: Build a supportive network among patients and caregivers, driving collective action.
      • Influence Research: Your voice can guide researchers to prioritize stomach cancer, leading to better funding and improved treatments.

Registration:

      • Stomach Cancer Patient Empowerment Summit: Free for patients, caregivers and general public
      • Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day: Included with summit registration or available separately for those interested only in stomach cancer advocacy.
      • Attendees are responsible for their transportation and lodging expenses. Scholarships are available for those who need financial assistance to attend.

Don’t miss this opportunity to amplify your voice, shape the future, and make a meaningful impact in the fight against stomach cancer. Therefore, you can meet with lawmakers, share your story, and push for legislative changes that will benefit the stomach cancer community. Register now to secure your spot for one or both events!

Accommodation Details for the Patient Empowerment Summit and Gastric Cancer

We have arranged a special rate at the DoubleTree by Hilton Washington DC – Crystal City for attendees of the Patient Empowerment Summit and Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day. Below are the room options and rates:

      • Cut-Off Date: January 15, 2025
      • Rate: $139.00 plus tax per night
      • Cancellation Policy: Reservations can be canceled up to 72 hours in advance of arrival.
      • Check-In/Out Time: Check-in at 4:00 PM, Check-out at 11:00 AM

Room Options:

      • 1 King Bed – $139.00 per night
      • 2 Full Beds –$139.00 per night

Program Schedule:

      • Start: Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 4:00 PM
      • End: Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 3:30 PM on Capitol Hill

Departure Information: Advocates are welcome to depart directly from Capitol Hill after the program concludes. Luggage storage will be provided on Capitol Hill, with secure storage available in the shuttle.

Information About the Summit and Advocacy Day

Your presence is a valuable addition to our community. We encourage you to actively engage in the sessions, ask questions, and share your experiences if you feel comfortable doing so. Your insights can be a source of inspiration and support for others, helping to amplify our collective voice under this year’s theme: “Amplify Your Voice, Shape the Future.”

Amplify Your Voice:
This summit is not just about learning—it’s about making your voice heard. Whether during the Patient Empowerment Summit or on Capitol Hill during the Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day, your story and experiences are crucial in shaping the future of stomach cancer care and policy. By sharing your journey, you contribute to a larger movement aimed at creating systemic change, promoting early detection, and ensuring equitable treatment for all.

Shape the Future:
At the Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day, you’ll have the opportunity to directly influence policy by engaging with legislators and policymakers. Your participation can help advance the Stomach Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Act, a landmark piece of legislation born from our advocacy efforts. Together, we are stronger, and together, we can turn hope into healing.

Logistics & Participation:

      • Cost: There is no charge to attend this weekend’s summit. All meals are included as part of the summit. However, attendees are responsible for their own travel and hotel accommodations.
      • Travel & Accommodations: We have a hotel block reserved, and limited travel scholarships are available to help subsidize costs. We are also offering the Healing Journey Challenge, available until January 1, 2025, to further assist with expenses.
      • Format: The 3rd Patient Empowerment Summit is an interactive, in-person conference. While some sessions will be recorded, edited, and released for on-demand viewing at a later date, we will also offer a Livestream for a portion of our educational conference for those unable to travel.
      • Agenda: The full agenda and additional details will be released at a later date.

This summit is a reflection of our commitment to empowering individuals facing stomach cancer with knowledge, support, and hope. Your active participation not only benefits you but also contributes to a broader community effort aimed at improving the lives of everyone affected by stomach cancer and bridging the disparity gaps.

Fundraising Challenge

Need help covering the cost of hotel and transportation for the upcoming 4-Day Patient Empowerment Summit and Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day?

We encourage you to take part in our Fundraising Challenge to make your participation more affordable!

How It Works: Simply set up a Facebook or Instagram fundraiser benefiting Hope For Stomach Cancer, or email us to create your own peer-to-peer fundraising link. Contact Divine at [email protected] for more details and instructions.

Incentives:

      • Raise $500 by December 10: You will be eligible for a hotel room for 3 nights. Double Occupancy Okay.
      • Raise $1,000 by December 10: You will be eligible for round-trip US transportation for one person and a hotel room for 3 nights for the 2025 Patient Empowerment Summit and Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day in D.C.—a unique four-day event that educates, empowers, and shapes the future for a community of support for people affected by stomach cancer.
      • Raise $1,500 by December 10: You’ll be eligible to bring a family member or caregiver to the summit with you (round-trip US travel for two plus a shared hotel room for three nights).

Important Note: Hope for Stomach Cancer will use any funds raised in excess of the amount needed to secure your place at the Patient Empowerment Summit and Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day—or if you do not meet your goal—to continue funding our mission.

We are so excited about this event and can’t wait to see you there!

What To Expect At The Patient Empowerment Summit and Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day

Expert Speakers:
Engage with leading medical experts, renowned researchers, and inspirational speakers who will share cutting-edge information and empowering stories. These sessions will provide valuable insights into the latest advancements in stomach cancer care, treatment options, and patient advocacy.

Interactive Workshops:
Participate in hands-on workshops designed to equip you with practical tools and strategies for navigating the challenges associated with stomach cancer. These workshops will cover topics such as navigating the healthcare system, understanding patient rights, leveraging health technology, and managing mental health and wellness.

Networking Opportunities:
Connect with fellow attendees, patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. This event is not just about learning; it’s about building a community of support that extends beyond the summit. You’ll have the chance to share experiences, exchange ideas, and form lasting connections with others who are on similar journeys.

Share Your Story:
This is your chance to be heard. The summit offers a supportive platform for you to share your personal story with others who understand the journey. By sharing your experiences, you can inspire others, raise awareness, and contribute to the collective voice that is shaping the future of stomach cancer care. Whether in small group sessions or larger forums, your voice matters, and your story can make a difference.

Recap of the 2nd Patient Empowerment Summit and 1st Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day

We are excited to share a recap of the recent Patient Empowerment Summit and 1st Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day, held from May 5 to May 7, 2024. This event, hosted by Hope for Stomach Cancer, brought together healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers, and advocates to discuss crucial issues and innovations in patient-centered care, with a special focus on gastric cancer.

The summit featured a series of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and workshops that emphasized patient advocacy, education, and engagement. Highlights included sessions on navigating the healthcare system, understanding patient rights, leveraging health technology, and managing mental health and wellness.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the summit was hearing powerful patient stories, which underscored the real-world impact of patient empowerment. These stories fueled our advocacy efforts and led to the creation of the Stomach Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Act during our 1st Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day. This landmark legislation represents a significant step forward in the fight against stomach cancer, focusing on early detection, prevention, and equitable treatment for all patients.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all speakers, participants, and sponsors for making this summit a success. Your contributions have laid the foundation for ongoing advocacy efforts that will shape the future of stomach cancer care.

FAQs for the Patient Empowerment Summit

Q: What is the primary objective of the Stomach Cancer Patient Empowerment Summit?
A: The summit aims to provide patients and caregivers a platform where they can find solace, education, and awareness about stomach cancer, as well as connect with top-notch resources and a supportive community. With the theme “Amplify Your Voice, Shape the Future” for 2025, we emphasize the importance of collective strength and support for those affected by a stomach cancer diagnosis.

Q: What is the primary objective of the Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day?
A: Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day aims to raise awareness, promote policy changes, and engage policymakers to address the needs of individuals affected by stomach cancer. The primary objective is to advocate for increased awareness, funding, research, and support for those impacted by this disease, particularly through the advancement of the Stomach Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Act.

Q: Where and when will the summit be held?
A: The Patient Empowerment Summit will start on February 8, 2025, at 4 p.m. EST and end at 3 p.m. on February 10. This will be followed by the Stomach Cancer Disparity and Advocacy Training at 4 p.m. on February 10, and Advocacy Day on February 11, starting at 8 a.m. The summit and hotel accommodations will be at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Washington DC – Crystal City.

Q: Is the Summit separate from Advocacy Day?
A: Yes. These are separate events, but we highly encourage you to participate in both. The theme of both events is “Amplify Your Voice, Shape the Future,” underscoring the importance of individual and collective action in shaping the future of stomach cancer care.

Q: How can I register for the events?
A: Scroll up and select your registration method from the available options. If you are joining us for Advocacy Day, please provide your cell number, address, and ZIP code to ensure a meeting with your Representative.

Q: What do you do with my information?
A: We never sell your data, but we do share it with a third party to schedule your meetings for Advocacy Day. If you prefer to register without sharing your information, please email [email protected].

Q: I am a healthcare professional interested in the latest trends in stomach cancer care. Is this summit suitable for me?
A: Absolutely! While our primary focus is on patients and caregivers, healthcare professionals will gain valuable insights into patient experiences, needs, and the tools and resources they find most beneficial. This is an excellent opportunity to better understand the patient’s perspective.

Q: Are there any fees for attending the summit?
A: No, the summit is free. All meals, sessions, workshops, and receptions are included at no cost. However, attendees are responsible for their own transportation and lodging. We offer the Healing Journey Challenge to help cover additional travel and lodging costs, and limited travel scholarships are also available.

Q: Will there be financial assistance or discounts for patients and caregivers who wish to attend?
A: We understand the financial challenges that can come with a cancer diagnosis. We have established the Healing Journey Challenge and offer limited travel scholarships to assist with costs.

Q: What can attendees expect from the summit and advocacy day?
A: Attendees can expect a diverse range of sessions and activities, including informative presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. The summit aims to provide valuable insights, foster connections, and inspire attendees on their stomach cancer journey. Advocacy Day will involve engaging with legislators to influence policy change.

Q: Will there be opportunities for networking during the summit?
A: Yes, the theme “Amplify Your Voice, Shape the Future” underscores the importance of networking and building connections. There will be specific sessions and activities designed to foster interactions among attendees.

Q: I’m a stomach cancer survivor and want to share my journey. Will there be an opportunity for this during the summit?
A: We cherish and value personal stories of resilience and hope. There will be dedicated sessions where survivors and patients can share their experiences. Please contact [email protected] to discuss how you can participate.

Q: How can I become a speaker or presenter at the summit?
A: If you are interested in becoming a speaker or presenter at the summit, please reach out to [email protected]. We welcome individuals with valuable insights and experiences to contribute to our program.

Q: Will the sessions be recorded for future viewing?
A: Yes, selected sessions will be recorded and made available to attendees post-summit. This ensures that even if you miss a session, you can catch up later. There will also be a live stream component for those unable to attend in person.

Q: What COVID-19 safety measures will be in place during the summit?
A: We prioritize the safety and well-being of our attendees. All COVID-19 safety protocols recommended by health authorities at the time of the summit will be strictly implemented. This may include measures like social distancing, mandatory masks, and regular sanitization. We will follow Virginia state guidelines.

Q: How can I stay updated about the summit’s latest announcements?
A: We recommend subscribing to our newsletter or regularly checking our official website. Additionally, you can follow our social media channels for real-time updates and announcements.

Q: What should I expect for Advocacy Day?
A: Advocacy Day involves a lot of walking, as you’ll be meeting with various legislators throughout Capitol Hill. Be prepared for a busy day of impactful advocacy work.

Q: What should I wear for Advocacy Day?
A: The dress code is business to business casual. If you have a light blue or periwinkle shirt, dress, or tie, please wear the color of stomach cancer to bring awareness into the Capitol. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and avoiding a belt will make it easier to pass through security.

  1. There are two Stomach Cancer Advocacy Days in February. Why should I choose to participate in Hope for Stomach Cancer?

A: Our Stomach Cancer Advocacy Day, part of the broader Patient Empowerment Summit, is uniquely positioned to provide a comprehensive and impactful experience. Here’s why you should choose ours:

  1. Holistic Approach: Our Gastric Cancer Advocacy Day is integrated into a larger event that includes the Patient Empowerment Summit, offering a holistic approach that combines education, empowerment, and advocacy. You’ll not only learn about the latest in stomach cancer care but also receive specialized training to effectively advocate for change.
  2. Focused Legislation: We are specifically advocating for the Stomach Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Act, a critical piece of legislation that was born from our very own advocacy efforts. By participating in our Advocacy Day, you’ll be directly contributing to the advancement of this landmark bill, which has the potential to make a significant impact on early detection and equitable treatment for stomach cancer.
  3. Personalized Experience: We prioritize a personalized advocacy experience, ensuring that you meet with your own Representatives and Senators. This targeted approach means your voice is heard where it matters most—by the policymakers who represent you and your community.
  4. Community and Support: Our event fosters a strong sense of community. You’ll be surrounded by patients, caregivers, and advocates who share your passion and commitment. The connections you make here will last beyond the event, providing a network of support as you continue your advocacy journey.
  5. Theme of Empowerment: The theme for 2025, “Amplify Your Voice, Shape the Future,” encapsulates our commitment to ensuring that every participant has the tools, knowledge, and support to make a real difference. This is not just a day of advocacy; it’s a movement to transform the future of stomach cancer care.
  6. Expert-Led Sessions: Our Advocacy Day is backed by a team of experts in the field, offering insights, guidance, and strategies that are specific to the challenges and opportunities in stomach cancer advocacy.

By choosing our Advocacy Day, you’re aligning yourself with a focused, well-supported, and highly impactful effort that seeks to create lasting change. Join us, and together, we can amplify our voices to shape a better future for everyone affected by stomach cancer.