From Surviving to Thriving: AYA Cancer Care with Dr. Chris Dandoy

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Chris Dandoy, Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics and bone marrow transplant physician at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Dr. Dandoy shares his deep experience working with adolescents and young adults (AYAs), focusing on the unique challenges they face during and after cancer treatment. Our conversation centers around empowering AYAs to take ownership of their healthcare journey, improving outcomes, and restoring quality of life.Dr. Dandoy introduces us to Engraft, a collaborative learning network he founded, which unites providers, patients, families, industry partners, and nonprofits to improve survival and quality of life post-stem cell transplant. Rather than each center working in isolation, Engraft allows for real-time communication and problem-solving across 15 centers, helping everyone learn from each other’s best practices.A core message in our conversation is the importance of ownership—encouraging AYAs to ask questions, understand their medications, and advocate for themselves. We explore the concept of “ownership” through examples, like advocating for the removal of central lines after they’re no longer medically necessary, and understanding the role and risks of medications such as immunosuppressants and anti-infectives.Dr. Dandoy walks us through strategies to support medication adherence, such as using reminder apps, setting daily routines, and involving friends or caregivers for support. He also emphasizes the temporary nature of this intense medication schedule, helping patients see it as a phase, not a life sentence.We highlight how important it is for AYAs to stay engaged—learning about their labs, asking what new medications are for, and writing down questions for their healthcare team. Chris stresses that they don’t have to memorize everything; the goal is communication and awareness, not perfection.For caregivers, Chris offers validation and encouragement, reminding them this is a marathon with tough stretches, but also moments of progress. He urges caregivers to walk beside their loved ones—not behind or in front—fostering independence and shared decision-making.Dr. Dandoy closes with an inspiring story of a young survivor who endured ICU-level complications but is now back to running races and embracing life fully. It’s a powerful reminder that while the transplant journey is grueling, it’s also transformative.More:Engraft Learning Network: https://www.engraftlearningnetwork.org/Thanks to our Season 17 Sponsors:Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS): https://lls.org/and Incyte: https://incyte.com/ National Bone Marrow Transplant Link - (800) LINK-BMT, or (800) 546-5268.nbmtLINK Website: https://www.nbmtlink.org/Check out our valued nbmtLINK resource books, some for sale, some free as downloadable, https://www.nbmtlink.org/shop/nbmtLINK Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/nbmtLINKFollow the nbmtLINK on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/nbmtlink/The nbmtLINK YouTube Page can be found by clicking here.This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  It is crucial to consult directly with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical conditions, treatment options, or other health concerns.The views and opinions expressed by the speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the nbmtLINK.  Unless otherwise stated in an official policy, the nbmtLINK does not endorse any specific treatments, products, or services mentioned by the speakers. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.The Marrow Masters Podcast is produced by JAG Podcast Productions: https://jagpodcastproductions.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.