Dear Eunji

It has been a busy month for ISOPP this August. In the UK, where I live, it is the official ‘Summer’ holidays and with my children at home from school for the long holidays I have been torn between my different roles as a mum, an oncology pharmacist and the ISOPP president. The challenges I face day to day are not unique and even if your challenges are not the same as mine, I am sure you have family, friends, commitments and responsibilities that you are juggling. Just remember, you are making a positive difference to those people and your patients. Remember to take some time out for yourself each month. 

I sometimes reflect on my role as the ISOPP president and upon reading the ‘Day in the life article’ from Jamilah Karreem-Seedat, she has reminded me why I strive to improve the support for pharmacists across the world in their care for cancer patients. Thank you for your article Jamilah. If you also wish to submit an article, please read here: https://www.isopp.org/communication/isopp-newsletter.

Our two webinars in August on Updates in Supportive Care: A focus on antiemetics and the ISOPP Research Mentorship Program were delivered to an engaging audience online and feedback has been very positive for both sessions. Thank you to all the speakers and chairs for brilliantly delivered education sessions. For more information on this and our other webinars and to view the recordings click here. The launch of the Research Mentorship Program is further discussed in the newsletter and is the main focus of our edition this month.

For our new members, Evelyn (Past President) and I are holding a new members virtual welcome meeting in September where you can have the chance to ask any questions or find out more about how to support ISOPP and get involved as a volunteer. To find out more please read below. 

With Warm Regards,

Netty Cracknell

ISOPP President 2024 - 2026

ISOPP News and Update

It has been a very busy few months for the ISOPP Research Committee as we have been finalising our new research mentorship program. We believe this is the first truly global initiative to support oncology pharmacists on their research journey and we are extremely lucky to have a pool of 15 experienced ISOPP members who have volunteered to act as research mentors. I’m sure I speak for most, if not all, ISOPP members when I say that undertaking project work can be one of the most rewarding aspects of being an oncology pharmacist, but it can also be challenging and potentially scary. So, whether you think of yourself as a novice or a more experienced researcher, then having a “buddy” to support you in turning an idea into a fully-fledged project is always of benefit. As the old proverb says: “two heads are better than one”! I would encourage all ISOPP members to check out the research mentorship page on the website to find out more about the program and how to engage with our expert mentors. We have tried to make the process as straightforward and painless as possible, but the research committee are always on-hand to deal with any questions or concerns that you might have – we can be contacted at research@isopp.org.

To help launch of the program, we were able to call upon the talents of four ISOPP members (Anita Mucua from Kenya, Jackson Truong from Australia, Adrian De Boer from Canada, and Saffiya Khadam from the UK) to take part in our first ever Research Webinar and to deliver truly inspiring presentations about their individual research journeys. It was great to see so many ISOPP members attending the webinar but if you were unable to make it then I would strongly encourage you to check out the recording on the ISOPP website. 

Nick Duncan

ISOPP Research Committee Chair

A Day In The Life of Jamilah Karreem-Seedat:

Oncology Pharmacist in Hillcrest, South Africa

As the first light of dawn touches Hillcrest, South Africa, my day as an oncology pharmacist begins with a deep sense of purpose and responsibility as my role at the Cancer Centre is more than a job—it’s a calling to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those fighting cancer, marked by dedication, compassion, and a profound commitment to patient care.

My mornings are of precision and care as I start my day by reviewing chemotherapy orders with meticulous attention. Each regimen is carefully checked to ensure it’s aligned with the latest guidelines and personalized to each patient’s needs thereby safeguarding each patient’s well-being.



I take great care in calculating dosages, considering each patient’s unique health profile and recent changes. Preparing chemotherapy drugs demands rigorous aseptic techniques, and I work diligently within a laminar flow hood, measuring and mixing each dose with the utmost precision. Knowing that every step is crucial to ensuring patient safety and efficacy.

As the day progresses, my focus shifts to patient interactions and team collaboration. My role extends beyond providing expert advice on drug interactions and side effects to offering comfort and reassurance. I work closely with oncologists and oncology nurses to discuss treatment plans, adjusting as needed to ensure every aspect of care is coordinated with empathy and understanding.

I also review lab results and monitor patient responses to treatment. When changes are necessary, I collaborate with my team to interpret the data and make informed recommendations. This requires not only pharmacological knowledge but also the ability to communicate with sensitivity, addressing patients' concerns and fears with kindness and patience.

The afternoon is devoted to monitoring ongoing treatments and responding to any issues that arise. I carefully review patient records, vigilant for any signs of adverse reactions or complications. When a patient experiences side effects, I act swiftly to provide the necessary adjustments or support. 

Documentation is crucial in this process. I meticulously update medication records, noting any changes and patient responses. This thorough record-keeping is essential for continuity of care and for making informed decisions in future treatments. I also prepare for the next day, ensuring that all required drugs are in stock and liaising with nursing staff to review patient blood results. This helps determine whether an oncologist’s intervention is needed or if treatments should be adjusted. Managing inventory with care ensures that no patient’s treatment is delayed due to a lack of resources.

As the day winds down, I turn my attention to my own growth and the evolution of my practice. The field of oncology is ever-changing, and staying informed through research, training, and professional development is vital to providing the best care. In the quiet of the evening, I reflect on the day’s experiences—the challenges faced, and the successes achieved. This time of reflection helps me find ways to improve and ensures that I continue to offer compassionate, patient-centered care.

My role as an oncology pharmacist is demanding, yet incredibly rewarding. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to support and care for my patients during their most challenging times. I love my position and deeply value the chance to impact my patients' lives positively. Serving them is not just a profession but a heartfelt privilege. Each day, I am reminded of the profound difference we can make together in their fight against cancer. For this, I am truly thankful and committed to giving my best to every patient who walks through our doors.

New Members Virtual Welcome Meetings

We are so glad to have you onboard!

ISOPP is an engaging Society that creates opportunities for you to advance your practice and update your knowledge in the oncology field.

Join the ISOPP President and Past President on September 4, 2024 as they give you a warm welcome and inform you of ISOPP activities.

https://www.isopp.org/membership/new-member-virtual-welcome-meeting

ISOPP Constitutes the JOPP Advisory Board (JAB)

ISOPP has formed the JAB to provide feedback and suggestions to improve JOPP and to provide recommendations for article topics and special issues.

The JAB will meet virtually once or twice a year and in person at the ISOPP Symposia. The meetings will be open to all ISOPP members so that everyone can provide input into ISOPP’s journal.

Barry Goldspiel, PharmD

Editor, JOPP

Prepare To Submit Your Abstract

Mark your calendars, save the date, and prepare to submit your abstracts! 

The ISOPP CAPhO Symposium is taking place on

April 3-7, 2025 in beautiful Victoria, BC, Canada!

Enhance your practice, collaborate with your national and international colleagues, and join us here.

Abstract submission will open on the week of September 23^rd!

ISOPP's Society and Symposium Management Office



Sea to Sky Meeting and Association Management is ISOPP's Society and Symposium Management Office. We support ISOPP’s volunteer leadership (Secretariat, its Committees, Task Forces and Work Groups), its members and other stakeholders to help achieve ISOPP’s mission to advance oncology pharmacy care for patients around the world. If you have any questions about membership, services, Symposium or the Society, please contact the ISOPP Office directly as follows:

Email:  membership@isopp.org

Direct: +1-604-984-6455

Suite 206, 201 Bewicke Avenue 

North Vancouver, BC Canada V7M 3M7

www.seatoskymeetings.com