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Angela Mastronuzzi: Cancer turned my world upside down

Angela Mastronuzzi/LinkedIn

Feb 6, 2025, 16:53

Angela Mastronuzzi: Cancer turned my world upside down

Angela Mastronuzzi, President of AIOEP, shared a post on LinkedIn:

“Today is World Cancer Day 2025 – “United by Unique”

Cancer turned my world upside down…

I have dedicated my life to the fight against pediatric brain tumors, both as a pediatric oncologist and now as President of AIEOP. But in June, cancer became a personal battle too. I was diagnosed with a rare metastatic tumor – PEComa, a type of sarcoma. Like the pediatric cancers I have always fought against, it too is rare.

And yet, I have never lost hope or trust in science. I am receiving targetedt herapy at the Oncology Unit of IRCCS, the place where I studied, where I grew as a doctor, and where I now find care and support as a patient. And I follow every medical indication as a diligent patient. I keep working, keep moving forward.

My greatest source of comfort has come from my patients and their families. A life spent fighting this disease, and now it has come to me. But today, more than ever, I stand alongside my patients.

Cancer has touched my family before – my father had his own long cancer journey. Now, I walk this path too, with the same strength and determination I have always asked of my little warriors.

Hope is what drives us. And today, I hold on to it more than ever.
A heartfelt thank you to my family and all those who have been and continue to be by my side. Your support means everything.

So my final message is this: Share your stories. We are all listening.”

Angela Mastronuzzi