From Survivor to Policy Shaper (Wenora Johnson)

ACE Meeting. November 17, 2026. 3:00 pm PT, 6:00 pm ET. What happens when a patient’s story becomes a catalyst for policy change? Join Wenora Johnson, three-time Cancer Survivor and nationally engaged Patient Advocate, as she shares her journey from navigating a cancer diagnosis to helping influence healthcare policy, clinical research, and patient-centered decision-making. Through personal experiences and real-world examples, Wenora will explore how Patient Advocates can move beyond simply having a seat at the table to helping shape the conversations, priorities, and decisions that impact patients and communities. Because our stories don’t just deserve to be heard, they have the power to help shape what happens next.

Wenora Johnson is a three-time cancer survivor, Lynch Syndrome Advocate, Navy Veteran, and nationally recognized Patient Research Advocate Leader. Following her Stage IIIB colorectal cancer diagnosis at age 44, Wenora transformed her personal experience into a mission to improve cancer prevention, early detection, equitable access to care, and patient-centered research. She serves as President ofthe FORCE Board of Directors and contributes to numerous national research, policy, and advisory committees, including patient engagement initiatives with leading academic, nonprofit, and healthcare organizations. As both a clinical trial participant and an IRB member,Wenora brings a unique perspective that bridges patients, researchers, and clinicians. She is passionate about ensuring that every research decision reflects the voices and lived experiences of the people it is intended to serve.

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