All Aboard for CANSA 90th – Prof Patrick Arbuthnot CANSA Board Member
Prof PB Arbuthnot
Prof Patrick Arbuthnot, Board member: “CANSA carries out valuable, compassionate work to assist people whose lives are affected by cancer. The organisation supports research, which is important to tackle problems that are particularly important to South Africa.”
What is your key message that you would like to share about CANSA’s 90-year anniversary?
CANSA has been a shining example of selfless and all-encompassing dedication to addressing a group of serious medical problems. Although times are challenging it is vital that the organisation builds on its achievements to strengthen itself for the long term.
What service do you think CANSA should expand on in the next 10 years?
Relevant new knowledge generated from research is undoubtedly important and will become even more so in the future. Ensuring that the research is relevant and has impact is vital and should be a focus of future work. Engaging with strategic partners and attracting funding support should be actively pursued. Building broad ranging research capacity is also going to be important.
Which part of CANSA’s service do you admire the most – research, educate, or support?
All aspects of CANSA’s work is admired and the different components integrate well to tackle problems of cancer in SA. My involvement is mainly with providing input into research activities.
What is your leadership style?
My style is to consider the opinions of others before making decisions, and usually to make choices by consensus. A ‘hands-on’ approach is also favoured as it provides useful insights to arrive at the best decisions.
What is your motivation to serve CANSA?
CANSA carries out valuable compassionate work to assist people whose lives are affected by cancer. Also the organisation supports research, which is important to tackle problems that are particularly important to South Africa. These virtuous contributions of CANSA are my motivation to be involved with the organisation.
