Adult Advisory Council
March 7, 2008
Scott Viera, 'cancer warrior' and former council co-chair, dies
With the mantra "cancer is tough, but we are tougher," Scott Viera, a Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center patient and member of the Adult Patient and Family Advisory Council, inspired his fellow council members, patients, families, and staff here and beyond through his work, writings, and speeches. Viera, who battled colon cancer for more than five years, died at home March 7 at age 44. He leaves his wife, Kelli, and daughters Courtney, 9, and Sydney, 6, whom he described as the loves of his life and the reasons he fought cancer so valiantly.
Joining the council in 2003, Viera quickly became an eloquent spokesman for patient-and-family-centered care, helping to spread its message to other organizations. "Who knew I would become an advocate for patients worldwide?" he said in a speech to fellow council members and staff when he transitioned from the co-chair position he held in 2006 and 2007.
Throughout his tenure on the council, Viera was in treatment for cancer while working as a district manager for Friendly's Ice Cream and helping to raise his daughters. Also a college wrestling coach, he often likened his cancer experience to this sport: "You need to harness all your positive emotions to fight any fight, including cancer."
