AACR Scientist Survivor Program Patient Spotlight: Sue Manber
June 1, 2026
As part of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting on April 17-22, 2026, Merkel cell carcinoma patient Sue Manber took part in their Scientist↔Survivor Program (SSP). SSP is an initiative that connects cancer patient advocates with cancer researchers to foster collaboration, education, and dialogue. Through this experience, advocates gain a deeper understanding of cancer science and contribute their perspectives to the research community.
Each working group was led by an Advocate Mentor and Scientist Mentor and the group co-led by Sue was tasked with presenting their thoughts about the greatest benefits to patients for MCED (multi-cancer early detection) and MRD (minimal residual disease).
Building on the early experience the MCC community has had with the circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) blood test, their working group ultimately concluded that liquid biopsies such as ctDNA will become more than just a screening tool. They theorized that such tests would enable more personalized treatment protocols based on more frequent results once monthly tests are feasible.
In addition to the SSP working group, Sue presented a poster on the Skin Cancer Foundation’s campaign titled “The Big See,” focusing on early skin cancer detection to save lives. Read more about “The Big See” here!
