In the world of healthcare and music, few figures are as compelling as Dr. Dana Ataya, a breast cancer physician whose life’s work transcends the confines of her medical practice. As a leading member of The ReMissions, Moffitt Cancer Center’s house band, Dr. Dana marries her medical expertise with her passion for music to offer a unique form of healing and support to those affected by cancer. Through her involvement with The ReMissions, she exemplifies how the power of art and science can be harnessed together to spread hope, foster empathy, and underscore the critical work being done in cancer care and research. In this interview, Dr. Dana shares insights into her dual career, the inspirations behind her musical journey, and the profound impact music can have on both patients and caregivers in the fight against cancer.
Hey, thanks for chatting with us. Tell us a little about yourself.
Thanks for your time today! I’m Dr. Dana Ataya, and I’m deeply committed to saving more lives from cancer. I’m a practicing breast radiologist, educator, and researcher at Moffitt Cancer Center. I’m also the songwriter and lead vocalist for The ReMissions, Moffitt Cancer Center’s house band. Empathy, connection, innovation and collaboration are cornerstones in my practice as a physician-educator and as a musician.
Who or what inspired you to start making music? And, when did you start?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve spent my life intuitively tapping into the healing power of music. Music and songwriting have been tools I’ve used to process and explore my emotions and experiences, personally and as a physician and caregiver. In my practice as a breast radiologist, music has been an important medium in emotionally connecting with and supporting my patients.
Who are your inspirations? What artists or bands are you listening to?
I listen to a variety of genres and artists, but jazz is my favorite for unwinding after a busy day.
Tell me about your upcoming music and what inspired you to create it!
My next release is called “Stage 4 Needs More”, a song inspired by several stage 4 breast cancer patients. Stage 4 cancer means that a cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Despite advances in drug development, about 70% women with stage 4 breast cancer will die within 5 years of diagnosis.
This song is a call to action with a simple message: our stage 4 cancer patients deserve more. More urgency, more successful treatments, better quality of life, more awareness, and more research funding.
Even though nearly all women who die from breast cancer have stage 4 disease, only a small fraction of breast cancer research funding currently goes to study stage 4 breast cancer. This song is part of an urgent movement to help amplify the need for more innovative treatments and research funding for Stage 4 cancer.
Dr. Dana Ataya’s story speaks to the remarkable ways in which art and science can intersect to enrich lives and offer solace in times of need. As both a skilled physician and a talented musician, Dr. Dana embodies the essence of healing through her work with The ReMissions and her commitment to breast cancer care. Her upcoming music release, “Stage 4 Needs More,” is not just a song but a clarion call for increased attention, research, and support for stage 4 breast cancer patients. It’s a reflection of Dr. Dana’s unwavering dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of those she serves, both in the medical field and through her music. By weaving together her passions for healthcare and music, Dr. Dana not only provides comfort and hope to those touched by cancer but also highlights the urgent need for continued innovation and funding in cancer research. Her unique path serves as an inspiring reminder of the profound impact one individual can have when they are driven by compassion, creativity, and a desire to effect meaningful change. Learn more on Moffitt’s website.