Anita Fitzhugh

Anita Fitzhugh (she/her) is honored to serve on the California Dialogue on Cancer (CDOC) Patient & Community Advisory Group, lending her voice to increase quality and access to cancer care, and improve holistic wellbeing in survivorship.

 For the past decade, Anita has navigated cancer throughout motherhood. She was first diagnosed with breast cancer at 41 and again at 48, with no family history and a consistent healthy lifestyle. She is able to empathize with others who have endured similar diagnoses, the physical and psychological toll of treatment, and the emotional weight of living with uncertainty. 

 Anita brings to this work a career built on writing and communications, often translating complex issues into clear narratives that inform and connect people. She started her professional journey as a journalist before moving into communication roles in health care and higher education. Anita currently works in education policy at the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing where she serves as Chair for the agency's Disability Advisory Committee.

 Her role with CDOC provides a meaningful opportunity to advise on the development and implementation of California’s Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan, helping ensure the state’s efforts reflect the realities and needs not only of patients and survivors, but of caregivers and family members, including her own spouse and daughters.

 Anita also serves on the Kaiser Permanente National Cancer Patient Advisory Council.

 Outside of her professional and volunteer work, Anita and her husband enjoy walking or biking along the American River, exploring new camping destinations, and spending time with friends, family, and their two wonderful daughters.