Join Caregiver Action Network’s Upcoming Webinar
May 21, 2026 @ 3:00 p.m. ET
Join Caregiver Action Network (CAN) for an informative and supportive webinar designed specifically for bladder cancer and veteran caregivers.
Bladder cancer can bring unique challenges for veterans and the family members who care for them. This session will provide caregivers with essential information about bladder cancer treatment and practical strategies for navigating the VA and supporting a loved one throughout their care journey.
In addition, CAN will offer guidance on understanding available benefits and accessing caregiver support programs tailored to military families. Whether you are newly facing a diagnosis or further along in caregiving, this webinar will equip you with trusted resources, actionable tools, and reassurance that you are not alone.
What You Will Learn
Meet the Hosts
Leah Christensen | Owner, Christensen Strategies LLC
Leah Christensen is a strategic healthcare leader with more than 20 years of experience advancing programs that improve outcomes for veterans, families, and caregivers. As founder of Christensen Strategies LLC, she advises nonprofit, government, industry, and healthcare organizations on program design and implementation, operations, and federal policy, drawing on deep clinical and caregiving expertise.
Previously, Leah spent over 13 years in various roles within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Caregiver Support Program, where she helped lead national policy, training, and implementation for PCAFC under the MISSION Act and spearheaded the nationwide rollout of the Program of General Caregiver Support Services, now serving more than 70,000 caregivers. She also co-led VA’s Tech-Enabled Respite and Homecare pilot and drove major public private initiatives with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, Rosalynn Carter Institute, and PsychArmor.
Patricia Rios | Director of Education & Advocacy, Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN)
Patricia Rios is the Director of Education and Advocacy at the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN). She brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare and public health, with expertise spanning community engagement, program design, project management, evaluation, health promotion, and cultural competency.
In her role at BCAN, Patricia leads the development, implementation, and evaluation of patient education programs and resources to support individuals affected by bladder cancer. She also oversees BCAN’s advocacy initiatives at the federal and state levels, working to elevate the patient voice and advance policies that improve care and outcomes for the bladder cancer community.
Dakota Heath | Programs & Policy Associate
Dakota Heath is a policy professional with a background in political science, public policy, and advocacy. He served as the first John Schall Policy & Programs Fellow at the Caregiver Action Network (CAN), where he continues to work to advance policies that support family caregivers across the nation. Dakota is also a caregiver for his partner, who lives with gastroparesis. This firsthand experience gives him a deep, personal understanding of the challenges caregivers face, from navigating complex healthcare systems to balancing work and caregiving responsibilities.
Amera Bilal | Vice President of Programs & Policy, Caregiver Action Network
With over 20 years of experience designing programs at the intersection of aging, caregiving, and equity, Amera brings a powerful vision for centering caregiver voices in systems change. From leading Alzheimer’s initiatives in Prince George’s County to championing inclusive program design for historically marginalized communities, her leadership strengthens our ability to serve caregivers nationwide.
Made possible with support from Astellas Pharma + Pfizer.
About Pfizer:
Pfizer is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and delivering innovative medicines and vaccines. Pfizer has a significant presence in oncology, including research and treatments related to bladder cancer. Through its investment in cancer research and patient support initiatives, Pfizer works to improve outcomes and expand access to care for individuals living with cancer.
About Astellas Pharma:
Astellas Pharma is a global pharmaceutical company specializing in innovative therapies in oncology, urology, and other therapeutic areas. Astellas has been particularly active in bladder cancer research and treatment development, helping advance new options for patients facing the disease. The company also supports educational and patient-focused initiatives aimed at improving awareness and access to resources.
About Caregiver Action Network (CAN):
Caregiver Action Network (CAN) is the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life for the more than 63 million family caregivers across the nation. From parents of children with complex health needs to spouses, friends, and adult children caring for loved ones with chronic conditions, disabilities, or Alzheimer’s, CAN supports the full spectrum of caregiving families. Through free education, peer support, and resources, CAN empowers caregivers nationwide to provide care with strength, resilience, and hope.
