Volunteer Proceeds From Music to Medicine

For Miles Cameron, volunteering isn’t just a way to pass the time. And Moffitt Cancer Center isn’t just another place. “It has transformed my life, and has certainly transformed my mother’s life,” he says, “It really has made me who I am.”

Miles began volunteering at Moffitt in 2015, around the same time his mom was diagnosed and began treatment for colon cancer. Miles studied Piano Performance at McGill University in Canada, and planned to be a piano professor. His mom’s cancer diagnosis changed his trajectory. “That summer after graduating with my bachelor’s degree, I decided to switch paths to study medicine.”

While volunteering at Moffitt, Miles has had the opportunity to shadow several physicians, including his mother’s surgeon - Dr. Jose Pimiento - and has even been involved in some research. He now plans to become a surgical oncologist. It’s not too far off from playing the piano. “Just like music is a craft you have to learn, so too is medicine and science. There’s the art of medicine. Every patient you encounter is a different story, and I’m interested in that narrative.”

Miles currently volunteers in the MRI department while he works on finishing up his second bachelor’s degree at the University of South Florida. This fall, he’ll continue on to the University of Florida, where he’s already been accepted to attend medical school. Does he see Moffitt in his future? “Certainly. I’d love for it to be in my future. You never really know how your path might change, but it would be wonderful to return.”

Learn more about volunteer opportunities at Moffitt.