The Exceptional Patient in Cancer Care

The investigators of this study are exploring the experience of people with cancer who are considered by their physicians as having an exceptional course of disease - people who have defied the odds and remain well despite the severity of the original diagnosis.

Participation in this study is completely voluntary. Lessons learned from recorded experience(s) may be helpful to other patients and can be a basis for future studies that may benefit other patients.

To participate in this important study is simple and not time consuming. You will have only one face-to-face or telephone interview with a research assistant. During the interview you will simply be asked to describe your perspective, thoughts, and behaviors that you think are related to your disease course and lessons that you think others may gain benefit from. The interview will last about one hour and will be conducted at a time that is convenient for you.

If you agree to participate a research assistant will schedule a time for a recorded interview by phone or if possible at a location convenient to you. The interviews will be taped and transcribed. All recorded interviews will be retained for a minimum of 6 years.

Inclusion criteria

• 18 years of age or older
• Ability to speak and read English with patients residing in the US, ability to speak and read Hebrew with patients residing in Israel.
• Diagnosis of cancer confirmed by pathology.
• Exceptional disease course as identified by patients' physician, in terms of survival and unusual disease course that is appropriately medically documented.
• Consent to participate in this study.

Exclusion criteria

• Inability to understand the intent of the study.
• Medical condition that would preclude participation in an interview session lasting 30-45 minutes.
• Diagnosis of active psychosis or severe cognitive impairment confirmed by the patient's attending physician.