Jim Candler's Inspiring Journey: Gilead's Support in Prostate Cancer Battle
Jim Candler enjoyed a thriving 40-year career in system operations before joining Gilead three years ago, bringing his technological expertise to the Human Resources team.
"I was hired at 71 years old. What does that say about Gilead?" remarks Jim, now the Senior Director of People Technology.
At 74, Jim still finds joy in his work. He feels especially grateful to be part of a company that provides an array of healthcare and retirement benefits. One of these benefits proved invaluable when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year, offering crucial healthcare information.
Facing multiple medical opinions from various specialists, Jim found himself overwhelmed by the choices. His colleagues recommended AccessHope, a cancer care support benefit introduced by Gilead for U.S. employees and their families. This program connects individuals with oncology professionals who provide treatment information and emotional support.
"Much of our research at Gilead focuses on treatments for cancer patients," says Angela Sim, Senior Director of Benefits. "That's why our benefits team wanted to ensure our employees and their families could access information from leading oncology experts."
Jim was paired with an oncology nurse who guided him through his treatment options. "They don’t tell you what to do but help educate you and provide resources," Jim explains. With the nurse’s help and further research, Jim confidently made his treatment decision.
"My role involves alleviating administrative burdens and helping employees navigate our healthcare benefits. Now, I want everyone to know about the incredibly helpful program I accessed when I needed it most," Jim says. "It supported not just me but also my wife, who found emotional support through the program."
Gilead's efforts in cancer care have garnered attention from President Biden's Cancer Moonshot initiative, which seeks to enhance the experiences of those affected by cancer. In March, Gilead's Benefits team representatives were invited to the White House to share best practices on how employers can encourage employee cancer screenings.
Currently, Jim is still undergoing treatment but is pleased to report that his cancer is undetectable. He attributes his good health to regular check-ups and hopes his story highlights the importance of routine exams and screenings.
Jim expresses deep gratitude for Gilead's support in providing access to wellbeing services and cancer care, as well as fostering a rewarding work environment. "I'm proof that Gilead cares about its employees."
"I was hired at 71 years old. What does that say about Gilead?" remarks Jim, now the Senior Director of People Technology.
At 74, Jim still finds joy in his work. He feels especially grateful to be part of a company that provides an array of healthcare and retirement benefits. One of these benefits proved invaluable when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year, offering crucial healthcare information.
Facing multiple medical opinions from various specialists, Jim found himself overwhelmed by the choices. His colleagues recommended AccessHope, a cancer care support benefit introduced by Gilead for U.S. employees and their families. This program connects individuals with oncology professionals who provide treatment information and emotional support.
"Much of our research at Gilead focuses on treatments for cancer patients," says Angela Sim, Senior Director of Benefits. "That's why our benefits team wanted to ensure our employees and their families could access information from leading oncology experts."
Jim was paired with an oncology nurse who guided him through his treatment options. "They don’t tell you what to do but help educate you and provide resources," Jim explains. With the nurse’s help and further research, Jim confidently made his treatment decision.
"My role involves alleviating administrative burdens and helping employees navigate our healthcare benefits. Now, I want everyone to know about the incredibly helpful program I accessed when I needed it most," Jim says. "It supported not just me but also my wife, who found emotional support through the program."
Gilead's efforts in cancer care have garnered attention from President Biden's Cancer Moonshot initiative, which seeks to enhance the experiences of those affected by cancer. In March, Gilead's Benefits team representatives were invited to the White House to share best practices on how employers can encourage employee cancer screenings.
Currently, Jim is still undergoing treatment but is pleased to report that his cancer is undetectable. He attributes his good health to regular check-ups and hopes his story highlights the importance of routine exams and screenings.
Jim expresses deep gratitude for Gilead's support in providing access to wellbeing services and cancer care, as well as fostering a rewarding work environment. "I'm proof that Gilead cares about its employees."
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