Dr. Nicholas Robert, one of The Side-Out Foundation’s scientific advisors, was recently invited to serve as a member of the Cancer Research Committee for the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the world’s premier professional organization of oncologists. The organization includes approximately 30,000 members worldwide, clincial oncologists of multiple specialties and interests.

Dr. Robert’s appointment will begin June 8, 2011 and will last until 2014. In addition to his role as a Side-Out clinical advisor, Dr. Robert is one of two principal investigators for the Side-Out Protocol. His dedication to translational research (research designed to reach a patient’s bedside as quickly as possible) will be an important perspective as a member of ASCO’s Cancer Research Committee.

About ASCO’s Cancer Research Committee
The Cancer Research Committee was created in 2005 by the ASCO Board of Directors to promote, develop and implement ASCO’s clinical and translational research programs, activities and policies. The Committee consists of a total of 30-35 physicians, scientists, statisticians and patient advocates from the academic and community research settings. Each year 10-12 new people are appointed to the Committee, and they serve three year terms. The ASCO President (who is popularly elected by the membership) appoints new members to the committee based on their experience and expertise in conducting cancer research. Since its inception, the Cancer Research Committee has developed policies and position statements for the Society on clinical research topics, drafted Society comments to federal agencies, and assisted the ASCO Board of Directors with strategic planning related to clinical trials.

About The Side-Out Foundation

The Side-Out Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was established in 2004.  Inspired by one mom and embraced by the entire sport of volleyball, the mission of The Side-Out Foundation is to educate young athletes and their communities about breast cancer, both with respect to prevention and treatment, and to fund cutting edge breast cancer research.  Side-Out is focused on changing the way breast cancer is treated forever.

The term side-out refers to a situation in volleyball when one team wins a point while its opponent is serving, thereby regaining serve or control of play.  It is hoped that Side-Out will do the same for breast cancer patients, providing them with the support, education and best available treatments to regain control of their lives.