Fall 2025
Discipline of Oncology Wellness Retreat
Our recent retreat offered a meaningful opportunity to explore Mindful Practice in Medicine, with a focus on promoting wellness within the discipline. The afternoon began with luncheon followed by opening remarks from Dr. Melanie Seal, and Dr. Nikita McKay, setting the tone for a reflective and engaging experience. Attendees participated in a guided meditation led by Dr. Rebecca King and Dr. Christopher Earle, followed by a thoughtful discussion on the role of mindfulness in oncology. After a brief break, participants engaged in small group sessions to share insights and strategies for integrating wellness into their professional lives. The retreat concluded with a debriefing session, reinforcing the importance of cultivating presence, compassion, and balance in the medical field.
Introduction to Oncology: Lunch and Learn for First- and Second-Year Medical Students
On October 21, 2025, the Discipline of Oncology hosted a Lunch and Learn session for first- and second-year medical students, featuring insightful presentations by Dr. Melanie Seal, Dr. Erin Powell, and Dr. Oliver Holmes. The event offered an engaging overview of the clinical and academic roles of oncologists, sparking thoughtful discussion and curiosity among attendees. It was a valuable opportunity for students to explore the dynamic field of oncology and connect with experienced professionals.
Canadian Association of Medical Oncologists Annual Scientific Meeting (CAMO)
Dr. Melanie Seal (Chair, Advocacy Committee), Dr. Erin Powell (President Elect), and Dr. Angela Hyde (Judge, Resident Research Oral Abstracts) proudly represented the Discipline of Oncology at the Canadian Association of Medical Oncologists Annual Scientific Meeting held in Montréal from November 13–15, 2025. Their active participation underscores the Discipline’s commitment to national collaboration, advocacy, and excellence in oncology research and education.
Dr. Sevtap Savas (Professor & Graduate Program Coordinator (Human Genetics & Genomics) publishes manuscript on Podcasting and Blogging as Tools to Engage with the Public on the Topic of Cancer
In 2024, Dr. Savas and the Public Interest Group on Cancer Research launched a dynamic podcast and guest blog series to share diverse perspectives on cancer—from lived experiences and clinical care to cutting-edge research, advocacy, and public engagement. Over 18 months, the initiative featured 36 guests across 28 podcast episodes and 13 blogs, offering an inclusive platform for patients, scientists, healthcare providers, and equity-deserving communities. While the project was widely positive and cost-effective, it also revealed systemic barriers to equitable participation—particularly around guest compensation. This reflective commentary shares recommendations to guide future public-academic collaborations in oncology.
You can find it here.
Podcast by The Public Interest Group on Cancer Research (Newfoundland and Labrador)
Moderator
Dr. Sevtap Savas, Professor & Graduate Program Coordinator (Human Genetics & Genomics)
Lead: Public Interest Group on Cancer Research
Lead: Patient Advisory Committee – Atlantic Cancer Consortium
Division of Biomedical Sciences
Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University
Speaker
Dr. Melanie Seal, Associate Professor, Chair, Discipline of Oncology
Medical Oncologist
Cancer Care Program, Dr. H. Bliss Cancer Center
Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland
Dr. Seal participated in a podcast discussion regarding cancer care in Newfoundland and Labrador (hosted by Dr. Savas). They discussed the various types of health care professionals involved in the care of a patient with cancer and the importance of a multidisciplinary team. Dr. Seal highlighted a patient-centered approach to oncology.