Spotlight: Marissa Willis, Patient & Caregiver Advisory Council

What motivated you to get involved with the KCA?

For someone like me getting involved in the Kidney Cancer Association seemed like a perfect thing to do. Bringing awareness to the disease is so very important to me. I was not the typical patient that gets diagnosed with this disease. I was in my late 30’s, fit & healthy. Only through listening to my body did I even suspect something was wrong. Never at this stage of life did I think it was kidney cancer. Bringing awareness to people of all ages is one of my passions.

What are you excited to bring to the organization?

I’m excited to bring my passion for awareness and education to the organization. While I have my own social media that focuses on my journey, and sharing resources, a greater audience can be reached with KCA.

How do you hope to see the KCA grow?

I hope to see KCA grow by helping bring awareness to the disease & advocacy for patients. Funding for research is critical to continue development of effective treatments. Even if the treatments don’t cure a patient, gaining years of quality life is priceless!

What is your favorite travel destination?

In thinking about travel, every place on my list that is a favorite is somewhere with an ocean: Negril, Jamaica; Gulf Shores, AL; Daytona Beach, FL; Cancun, Mexico. The beach/ocean is a place I can be and really let the stresses of life go & relax.

What do you like to do in your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy cooking & trying new recipes. I keep my husband and sons on their toes with things I try to cook! Traveling, pool time, and watching sports are also fun pastimes! Whether it’s watching my youngest play basketball or the Chiefs during football season, sports are a favorite!