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Meet the Research Advocates

Research advocates at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center support our research efforts in many ways and for many reasons. Our advocates are cancer survivors, caregivers, and community members who are committed to making a difference. 

Cyd Vacio

Cyd Vacio

Cyd was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019 and treated by Dr. Ben Park. She had previously been diagnosed with and beaten ovarian cancer in 2013 while living in Southern California. Cyd credits VUMC and her treatment facility in California with saving her life amidst both her cancer diagnoses. She believes that “to whom much is given, much is expected in return,” and being part of the VICC Breast SPORE is her way of giving back.

Cyd is also involved with Breast Connect in the Knoxville, Tennessee area.