Club Meeting October 30 – Heimann Cancer Center update

Club members were treated to an update on the Heimann Cancer Center and regional cancer services by the Asante Cancer Services team last Wednesday. Presenters included Dr Rizvi, Heimann Medical Chair of Oncology and Medical Director, Brian Murphy, Director, Asante Cancer Services and Christian Gold Stagg, Sr. Director, Asante Foundation.

The presentation included a description of a real patient’s cancer journey, from diagnosis through treatments, and the actions Asante is taking to improve that journey. One example is Asante’s recent addition of a linear accelerator at the Heimann Cancer Center. This TrueBeam radiotherapy system can potentially decrease the number of radiation treatments a patient may need to from 25-40 to as little as five or fewer. Its precision also saves surrounding, healthy tissue from damage, A second linear accelerator will Go-Live in December at the Grants Pass Spear Center.

Asante’s commitment to Palliative Care, a medical approach that focuses on improving the quality of life for people with serious illnesses, was also discussed by Dr. Rizvi as part of Q&A. A second full-time resource dedicated to Palliative Care is being added in November.

Christian Gold Stagg gave an update on Asante’s Foundation efforts including completion of the fourth annual Walk for Hope in early October. Walk for Hope is a community event to honor and celebrate cancer survivors, caregivers and families.

Christian also remined us that No Shave November is here. The goal of No-Shave November is to grow awareness by embracing our hair, which many cancer patients lose, and letting it grow wild and free. One can donate the money you typically spend on shaving and grooming to educate about cancer prevention, save lives, and aid those fighting the battle.

Past-president Kellie Hill pledged to support No Shave November by not shaving her legs. We’ll just take her word for that. Show your support for Cancer prevention by participating in No Shave November too.

For more information on the Heimann Cancer Center please click: https://www.asante.org/services/cancer-services/locations/heimann-cancer-center/