cancer care today - Minnesota Oncology

Transcription

CANCER
CARE TODAY
A publication of Minnesota Oncology
faLL 2010
www.mnoncology.com
Fridley Oncologists
Move to New
Cancer Center
Neuro-Oncology
The East Metro Network
Kids Kamp
A Place to Be a Kid Amid
Cancer Worries
contents
Fa l l 2 0 1 0
8
22
Cover Story
Fridley Oncologists
Move to New Cancer Center
The Great Book of
Life: Family Heritage
for the Generations
This fall, north metro residents of the
Twin Cities will have a new comprehensive cancer center in their community
— the Virginia Piper Cancer Institute at
the new Fridley Medical Center, featuring the latest in technology, treatment
plans and survivorship resources.
Departments
7 President’s Letter
20 The Science of Caring
21 Minnesota Oncology News
Volume 3, Issue 2
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Feature
Neuro-Oncology
The East Metro Network
Creating successful solutions for patients
with brain cancer takes a dedicated, skilled
team. Dr. John Schwerkoske and his team
of clinical experts at Minnesota Oncology
are here to help.
Art Dickinson, a brain cancer survivor
who has worked with this team to fight his
cancer for more than two years, shares his
story of survival and faith.
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18
Your American Cancer
Society Can Help!
Kids Kamp: A Place
to Be a Kid Amid
Cancer Worries
Cancer Care Today is published semi-annually by Minnesota Oncology
Hematology, P.A., 2550 University Avenue West, Suite 110-N, St. Paul, MN
55114. Call (651)602-5349 for more information or visit www.mnoncology.com.
Advertising rates on request. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part
without written permission is prohibited.
On The Cover
The Fridley oncology provider team poses in the
construction area of the new cancer center. Front row,
from left to right: Jill Kuethe, CNP; and Dr. Tom Amatruda. Back row, from left to right: Dr. David King, Dr.
Stephen Mann and Dr. Jade Anderson.
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Minnesota Oncology
President’s Letter
Our Community, Our World
While summer has passed,
and many plants and trees
have gone dormant, things
here at Minnesota Oncology
continue to grow and flourish. Our Fridley practice has
a long-awaited new clinic
to better serve our patients,
highlighting our partnership
with the Virginia Piper Cancer Institute to bring ancillary services on-site that can greatly benefit cancer patients. The physicians in our Fridley and Coon
Rapids sites just joined our practice in mid-2009 and
are an outstanding group of physicians that we are
proud to have with us.
We continue to grow at our other sites also, with the
addition of Drs. Matt Graczyk (thoracic surgery) and
Joe Leach (medical oncology) at our Minneapolis office. Dr. Sanda Morar is another new addition and
will allow us to provide full-time medical oncology
services to the Cambridge community. We are excited to have them on board.
Featured in this issue is our neuro-oncology program
in the east metro, which provides exceptional care for
brain tumor patients. As is true for the more common
cancers such as breast and lung cancer, these patients
also benefit from a multi-disciplinary approach to their
care. Minnesota Oncology works with sub-specialists
Cancer Care Today
and others in the community to bring state-of-the-art
treatment to this group of patients who have unique
needs and face unusual challenges.
Other facility improvements include an entirely
new clinic for the Minneapolis site and a new linear
accelerator with enhanced technical capabilities in
the St. Paul Cancer Center, where we partner with
United Hospital.
A number of community events took place over
the summer, with many of our physicians and staff
members lending their support to organizations that
provide support to cancer patients. The Angel Foundation Kids Kamp represents a truly special event for
the children of cancer patients and provides a unique
opportunity for them to better understand and cope
with their parents’ illness. Minnesota Oncology
maintains a strong connection to the foundation
and I am honored to now be serving as a member
of its board.
So, no matter the season, things continue to blossom
at Minnesota Oncology to the benefit of the patients
we are privileged to serve.
Tom Flynn, MD
President
Minnesota Oncology
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Fridley Oncologists Move
to New Cancer Center
The Virginia Piper Cancer Institute with
Minnesota Oncology at Unity Hospital
When a family is facing a cancer diagnosis, a most important goal is to find a source of
state-of-the-art treatment and care in their own community — all in one place and close
to home. Even with modern-day medicines, a course of treatment for cancer can last six
months to a year and include numerous trips to an outpatient center for physician consultations, lab tests and treatment. The experience can not only disrupt a family’s daily
routine but also tap financial and energy resources.
This fall, such concerns for north metro
residents of the Twin Cities will disappear. A collaboration among Minnesota
Oncology, Virginia Piper Cancer Institute and Unity Hospital will bring the
full scope of cancer care together into
one comprehensive community cancer
center on the campus of Unity Hospital.
The center is located on the second level
of the new Fridley Medical Center, located at 480 Osborne Road in Fridley.
The Players in the
Cancer Center
Minnesota Oncology, the state’s largest
independent oncology group, anchors
the new cancer center with four boardcertified medical oncologists and a certified nurse practitioner working with
highly trained staff as an interdisciplinary
team. Allina’s Virginia Piper Cancer Institute brings together holistic services from
the Penny George Institute for Health
and Healing, as well as cancer rehab ser-
Minnesota Oncology, the state’s largest independent oncology
group, anchors the new cancer center with four board-certified
medical oncologists and a certified nurse practitioner working with
highly trained staff as an interdisciplinary team. Allina’s Virginia
Piper Cancer Institute brings together holistic services from the Penny
George Institute for Health and Healing, as well as cancer rehab
services from the Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute.
vices from the Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute. Unity Hospital brings its
well-developed Cancer Resource Center,
which includes education and support
services among other amenities. Unity
Hospital’s Cancer Program holds national
accreditation from the American College
of Surgeons – Commission on Cancer.
This means that the entire continuum of
cancer care meets the highest standards
and that critically important subspecialists — radiologists, pathologists and radiation oncologists — contribute their
Dr. Jade Anderson
Dr. Jade Anderson joined the practice in 2003
after completing a fellowship in medical oncology at the University of Minnesota. He has a
special interest in pain management and palliative care. In 2007, he obtained a certificate as
an algiatrist (pain specialist) from the American
Board of Pain Medicine, which advocates for a
balanced approach to safe and effective treatment of pain. Dr. Anderson also serves at the
Medical Site Director for Minnesota Oncology’s Fridley location.
Regarding the move to the new Cancer Center, Dr. Anderson says, “We
all worked very hard to make it a reality. I appreciate the outstanding teamwork we have developed together here over time. It’s great for patient care,
and now we will have the space available to do it even better. This is a very
exciting time for all of us!”
Cancer Care Today
expertise to provide the best treatment
plan and a seamless care experience for
patients and their families.
Minnesota Oncology
The mission of Minnesota Oncology is
to bring the most advanced cancer care
to local communities so that patients
can obtain the best possible treatment
close to home. Minnesota Oncology is
an affiliate of US Oncology, the nation’s
largest cancer research network. This
affiliation offers additional benefits to
Dr. Thomas Amatruda
Dr. Tom Amatruda has practiced in the Fridley
location for the past 12 years. He is nationally
known for his research and expertise on melanoma and also is recognized for his vast knowledge in cancer genetics. He is excited about
the shared program space at the new center
and is pleased that the entire complement of
care and services will be available for patients,
all in one place.
“Our patients need and deserve a comfortable, beautiful and safe space
when they come to us for treatment,” Dr. Amatruda declares. “The new
cancer center will increase our ability to provide the highest quality care
that includes risk assessment, education on cancer prevention and support
and care for the community.”
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Dr. Aaron Binstock, radiologist, reads a PET scan.
patients, giving them access to a plethora
of cutting-edge research trials. “For each
type of cancer, there are evidence-based,
tried-and-true combinations of treatments that have been proven to produce
the best results,” explains Dr. Tom Flynn,
President of Minnesota Oncology. “We
use information from the US Oncology
research network and other clinical trial
resources to provide the best-known treatment for each patient.” Optimal treatment
is delivered in a setting where a team of
compassionate caregivers — physicians,
nurses, social workers, financial counselors, schedulers and navigators — surround
patients and their families with attentive,
loving care.
Penny George Institute for
Health and Healing
Cancer survivors report that the rigorous
demands of treatment can result in significant fatigue, anxiety and stress. Self-care
is an important component of the healing
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journey. Many patients experience tremendous benefits from employing holistic
services and therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, biofeedback, health
coaching, nutrition counseling and a rehabilitation program designed to meet their
individual needs. The Penny George Institute for Health and Healing was initially
established at Allina’s Abbott Northwestern Hospital in 2003. Now, for the first
time, this scope of integrative medicine
offerings will be available at the new Cancer Center on the Unity campus. The new
cancer center makes these care choices
readily available to all who may seek them.
Sister Kenny
Rehabilitation Institute
Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute (SKI)
is the leading rehabilitation provider in the
region. The original Sister Kenny Institute
opened in December 1942 in Minneapolis
and has extended its stellar services to thousands of patients over the decades since.
Today, the Institute continues to provide
rehabilitative services to treat any shortterm or long-term condition or disability,
including those resulting from cancer and
cancer treatment. The SKI team is made up
of physical medicine physicians (physiatrists), physical and occupational therapists,
lymphedema specialists and speech therapists. Together, as a team, they create an
individualized rehabilitation plan for each
person. Patients who seek treatment at the
new Cancer Center will have full access to
the scope of services SKI has to offer.
The Cancer Resource Center Supports Survivorship
According to the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, “an individual is considered
a cancer survivor from the time of cancer
diagnosis through the balance of his or her
life.” From the time of diagnosis, throughout
treatment and into the post-treatment recovery period, cancer survivors experience many
concerns, questions and needs.
Minnesota Oncology
The Resource Center provides support
services and educational programs from
cancer screening and prevention through
treatment and beyond. Professional staff
members develop and provide emotional
and education support groups, workshops,
retreats and other community programs
for patients, caregivers and community
members to gain knowledge and emotional support through a cancer diagnosis. A
large community of local volunteers also
provides many other services, including
escorting patients into the clinic, assisting
patients in finding a wig and head coverings and services such as healing touch or
foot and hand massages during chemotherapy or cancer care.
The Resource Center’s library is staffed by
volunteers who can help patients and visitors
browse and check out a large collection of
books, pamphlets and electronic resources
on a variety of cancer-related topics. Services offered through the Resource Center are
largely free of charge. Patients and visitors
who have participated in the services and
programs through the Resource Center find
them a critical element in their overall cancer
care. “It is an honor and our goal to empower
patients and visitors to gain knowledge and
resources that support them emotionally and
spiritually through their journey,” says Sandy
Herrala, Support Services Coordinator.
Dr. Jade Anderson and Jill Kuethe, CNP, review architectural plans for the new cancer center.
Unity Hospital’s
Cancer Program –
Bringing It All Together
The journey through cancer treatment is a
long and complex road requiring the expertise of many highly-trained subspecialists.
Unity Hospital’s nationally accredited cancer program functions under the meticulous
oversight of the 34-member Cancer Committee that is made up of physicians and
clinical leaders in cancer care.
Making an accurate diagnosis is the first
order of business. The pathologists from
Hospital Pathology Associates, PA represent that critically important starting point
Dr. David King
Dr. King has practiced in the Fridley location
since 2003. In addition to his work at the Fridley
clinic, he helped to develop an outreach practice
in Cambridge, Minnesota. He enjoys caring for
all patients with a diagnosis of cancer and has a
special interest in melanoma and genito-urinary
cancers.
Dr. King is looking forward to seeing his patients’ reaction to the amenities of the spacious new chemotherapy bay, with
its tall, expansive windows looking out to tall trees and green grass. “They
will be able to enjoy the change of seasons and watch the falling snowflakes
in the winter,” he explains. “This is the kind of comforting environment our
patients deserve.”
Cancer
CancerCare
CareToday
Today
— making an accurate diagnosis of the
tissue specimens delivered to them following surgical procedures or biopsies. The
radiologists (specialized medical imaging
doctors) at Suburban Imaging (SI) and
The Breast Center of Suburban Imaging are a key component in every step of
cancer care, from cancer screening and
diagnosis to treatment and follow-up. Often, cancer is first discovered through an
imaging exam, like a CT scan or a mammogram. The radiologist interprets the images and if an area of concern is identified,
recommends additional testing or a biopsy.
Biopsies are performed by SI radiologists
and are coordinated and scheduled by the
SI oncology nurse to ensure they are per-
Jill Kuethe, CNP
Jill Kuethe is a Certified Nurse Practitioner who
joined Minnesota Oncology at the Fridley location in February 2010, when she relocated from
Chicago to be closer to her family. Her role as
an advanced-practice nurse provides needed
clinical support to the busy oncologists. She
typically sees patients for either routine followup visits or more urgent same-day visits, where
she manages various symptoms. Jill has a special
interest in addressing the psychosocial effects that a cancer diagnosis can
have on patients.
Regarding the move to the new Cancer Center, Jill states: “I am so excited to
be moving into a new facility that allows the opportunity to provide better
care for our patients.”
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formed in a timely fashion so there is no
delay in diagnosis and the initiation of
treatment. A core group of specialized
oncology radiologists from Suburban Imaging works closely with physicians from
Minnesota Oncology to determine tumor
response to treatment through high-tech
imaging, such as PET, MRI or CT imaging. Interventional radiologists facilitate
cancer care by implanting chemotherapy
access ports and performing chemoembolization and ablation procedures to treat
tumors in the liver, lung and kidney at
Unity and Mercy hospitals.
“We feel that our unique relationship with
Minnesota Oncology makes a difference for
patients,” said Dr. Aaron Binstock, Director
of Oncology Imaging at Suburban Imaging,
“Knowing the patient’s personal cancer history and response to treatment allows us
to give each patient the personalized care
they deserve.” Collaboration between the
medical oncologists, radiation oncologists,
pathologists, surgeons and radiologists is
facilitated by weekly tumor conferences.
During these weekly meetings, complex patients are discussed to determine the best individualized treatment plan. Advancements
in technology, such as videoconferencing,
allows for efficient information sharing
and joint case consultation through remote
viewing locations at Unity Hospital, Mercy
Hospital and Suburban Imaging – Coon
Rapids. “Suburban Imaging is honored to
work closely with Minnesota Oncology and
Entrance to Radiation Therapy on Unity Hospital’s campus.
Virginia Piper Cancer Institute to develop
an integrated oncology imaging program
that meets all their patients’ needs,” reports
Dr. Heaney, Assistant Medical Director of
Suburban Imaging.
Radiation therapy is an important component of cancer treatment. According to Dr.
Jeff Herman, radiation oncologist with Minneapolis Radiation Oncology (MRO), about
60 percent of all cancer patients will require
radiation therapy as part of their care. MRO
provides this care as part of the full continuum
of cancer services offered on the Unity Hospital campus. Dr. Herman, a valued member of
the multidisciplinary team, works closely with
medical oncologists, radiologists, pathologists
and surgeons to integrate radiation treatments
appropriately into the overall treatment plan.
“Our team is excited about our new equipment
that continues to bring state-of-the-art radiation care to our patients. The availability of
Image Guided Radiation Therapy and SABR
(Stereotactic Ablative Body Radiation) greatly
enhance our Cancer Program at Unity.”
Kathy Davis,
Practice Administrator
Kathy Davis has served as the Clinic Manager for both the Fridley Clinic and the
Coon Rapids Clinic until June, when she
accepted the full-time role leading the Fridley Clinic. Kathy has been front and center
in planning the layout and décor of the new
space. She states, “The new clinic surpasses
our highest expectations. It is a beautiful
environment for our patients and staff! With the spacious rooms, the
soft colors and natural light, it has a calm and serene feel. It is an
amazing change for everyone!”
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Connie Fiebiger, Director of the Unity
Cancer Program, is deeply invested in the
orchestration of the many moving parts of
this evolving collaboration and is the leader
who is bringing all the pieces together. “It
is exciting to be able to bring the exciting core components of cancer care together with new services and offer them
to our patients and community,” Fiebiger
states. “The collaboration among all the
providers, leaders and staff is an extraordinary effort to combine all elements of
treatment and services to help patient individualize their ability to live with and beyond
their treatment.”
A Grand Opening celebration for the
new Fridley Medical Center and the new
Cancer Center is scheduled for Saturday,
November 13, 2010, from 2 to 4 p.m. at
480 Osborne Road in Fridley. The public
is invited to participate in the celebration, which will include tours, door prizes
and more.
Dr. Stephen Mann
Dr. Mann has been with the Fridley oncology practice since he completed his medical oncology fellowship at the University
of Wisconsin at Madison in 1995. He sees
patients at the Fridley clinic and also has
worked extensively in the outreach practice in Cambridge, Minnesota.
Dr. Mann states, “I strongly believe in community cancer care. The great majority of cancer cases can be managed
well locally. For families to have this high level of care available to them
close to home is a huge advantage. In our clinic, we major in strong relationships — both with our patients and with other care providers and
support personnel — specifically, Sandy Herrala at the Resource Center;
Jane Sykonen, who manages the Tumor Registry; and Marcia Carlson and
Doris Rountree, our social workers. We also have strong relationships with
the University of Minnesota and Mayo. Here, our patients have access to
everything they could need.”
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“THE VITAL LINK BETWEEN PATIENT,
PHYSICIAN AND PROVIDER”
Cancer Care Today
13
NeuroOncology
The East
Metro Network
Dr. John Schwerkoske; Judy McEiver, CNP; and Becky Tukua, RN, with Art Dickinson, survivor.
W
hen Dr. John Schwerkoske
starts his day at Minnesota
Oncology’s Woodbury clinic
he is deeply aware of the awesome responsibility that rests with him and his
team. He takes this charge very seriously.
Over the years, his growing professional
reputation and his commitment to neurooncology has earned him the distinction
of being the east metro “go-to” oncologist
when it comes to brain tumors. More than
40 percent of his busy oncology practice
is made up of patients with brain malignancies; yet he is quick to point out that
the single most important element that
assures his patients of state-of-the-art
care is the powerful network of collabo-
14
ration he and his team enjoy with other
critically important sub-specialists and
professionals across the east metro area.
“These are the two features that make our
east metro neuro-oncology network so
successful,” Dr. Schwerkoske observes.
“Outstanding collaboration in the professional community and the clinical
research trials we have available to us.”
He goes on to describe how the neurooncology team works closely with a variety of clinical experts from all the health
systems, consulting with one another and
sharing their knowledge to arrive at the
very best evidence-based treatment plan
for each and every patient.
A Network of Clinical
Experts – How It Works
The collaboration of brain tumor experts centers around United Hospital in
downtown St. Paul, where the NeuroOncology Tumor Conference is the
heartbeat of the consultative network.
Neuro-Oncology Conferences are held
on the first, third and fifth Wednesdays
of each month. At 7:30 a.m. on the designated days, the physicians and other
professionals gather to discuss every new
referral they have received and current
patients encountering new problems.
Minnesota Oncology
The conference follows a set routine. A
case is introduced — the neurosurgeon,
the neuro-radiologist and neuro-pathologists, who each possess vast information
and experience in their respective discipline, present their clinic findings. They
study the clinical data, share the most recent research evidence, engage in intense
debate on the pros and cons of each choice
— and then recommend a treatment plan
which may include a combination of tactics including surgery, radiation therapy,
chemotherapy and/or novel agents. “It is
very high-level strategic treatment planning,” Dr. Schwerkoske observes. “We all
have a tremendous amount of respect for
one another, and I have no doubt at all
about everyone’s total commitment to the
best outcome for each patient.”
answered and to make sure nothing falls
through the cracks.” McEiver is on a firstname basis with all her patients and their
family members. “It’s all about that relationship,” McEiver observes with a smile.
“It’s all about building trust.”
Clinical Research Trials
Are an Important Key
Hope for Patients with
Brain Cancer
Access to a wide variety of clinical research trials is at the heart of excellent
cancer care. “All of our patients are offered
studies if appropriate to their situation
and available,” Dr. Schwerkoske explains.
Many of the studies are obtained through
the North Central Cancer Treatment
Group (NCCTG) and the Eastern Clinical Oncology Group (ECOG) through
the local Community Clinical Oncology
Program (CCOP), which is a research
network that manages research tracking
and documentation for clinical trials by
community medical practitioners. Some
trials are obtained through Minnesota
Oncology’s affiliation with the US Oncology Research Network. Dr. Schwerkoske
enjoys a very good working relationship
with Mayo Clinic oncologists, as he is actively involved with research trials from
the NCCTG, which consists of a network
of cancer specialists at community clinics,
hospitals and medical centers in the United States and Canada. Dr. Schwerkoske is
the community co-chair for the NCCTG,
which is administered by the Mayo Clinic
in Rochester, Minnesota.
Judy McEiver, CNP,
The Patient’s Ally
Judy McEiver, CNP, moves in concert
with Dr. Schwerkoske and his collaborative nurse, Becky Tukua, RN, as they spin
a web of caring concern and safety for
Cancer Care Today
Becky Tukua, RN,
Collaborative Nurse
Becky Tukua, RN, is the collaborative
nurse on the team. It is her job to be intimately aware of every detail of each patient’s clinical picture and their treatment
experience and to be alert to any issue that
may arise. “She knows every single patient,
and she is their ‘first call for help,’” McEiver says. “She is so kind; people always feel
comfortable calling her.”
Art Dickinson and Judy McEiver
the patients under their watch. McEiver
joined the Minnesota Oncology practice at
Woodbury in 2007. Professionally trained
as an Certified Nurse Practitioner, she
works in tandem with Dr. Schwerkoske,
providing direct care to oncology patients; performing physical examinations;
prescribing medications, including chemotherapy; and making rounds to see
hospitalized patients.
Together, McEiver and Schwerkoske have
developed an effective care model for patients with brain tumors that includes the
highest level of clinical care as well as an
optimal patient experience. Their care
model ensures that no patient is ever lost
to follow-up and that all patients have
ready access to a team member at all
times. “We constantly perfect our model
as we go along and are continually raising the bar for ourselves,” McEiver states.
“We want to create relationships with our
patients that are based on trust. We tell
our patients that ‘We are going to get you
through this. We will never leave your
side.’” McEiver sees patients for their regular chemotherapy visits and also works
closely with the team at United Hospital.
“It’s my job to make sure our patients are
supported, that they get their questions
Some exciting possibilities are on the
horizon for patients suffering from brain
tumors — the payoff from a continuing
intense push for expanding research in
this area. First, surgical procedures have
advanced to the point where a much more
accurate resection is now possible with
the use of intra-operative MRI. Secondly,
an increasing number of novel therapeutic agents have become available. One is
temozolomide, which has been shown to
be effective in high-grade brain tumors
when added to radiation and surgery.
When this therapy is used in combination, it increases median survival by about
a third.
Another hopeful sign is the advent of
growth inhibitors, such as the drug Avastin, which is a blood-vessel inhibitor.
“There are an almost infinite number of
growth inhibitors, which essentially turn
off the switch that permitted the tumor
growth in the first place,” Dr. Schwerkoske
explains. “If it were not for the ongoing
clinical trials, how could we progress our
knowledge? The key to success in the future is most certainly the clinical trials that
we implement today.”
15
One Man’s Faith Journey with Brain Cancer
Up until two years ago, Art Dickinson was living a successful, seemingly “charmed”
life with his family in Plymouth, Minnesota. A successful business law attorney with
the Moss & Barnett firm, Art was happily married to his wife, Pam, with three teenage
children who filled their home and lives with energy and joy.
In spring 2008, he began to experience a
tingling and burning sensation in his left
hand and left foot. At first, he thought
it might be a pinched nerve. When the
symptoms worsened, he visited his family physician. An MRI revealed a brain
tumor — subsequently determined to
be an oliodendroglioma, a slow-growing
tumor, Grade II. Unfortunately, this kind
of tumor is difficult to remove, as it not
localized or encapsulated, and it is anticipated to continue to grow over time.
Art underwent surgery with the goal of
removing as much of the tumor as possible and then began a rigorous chemotherapy regimen under the care of Dr.
John Schwerkoske to keep the remaining
tumor at bay. Since then, he has undergone 24 rounds of chemotherapy with
good results — the tumor is stable and is
not growing. Now Art is on a four-month
vacation from his chemotherapy regimen.
In November, he will have another MRI,
and if the tumor is quiescent, another
four-month reprieve from treatment will
be granted.
Art chose to work with Dr. John because of his reputation in the medical community of being the best in
his field in the Twin Cities area and
because Dr. John was willing to work
actively with Art’s brain surgeon and
other specialists to provide the best
collective treatment solutions possible. Art says, “When my life was on
the line, I wanted someone who would
work with others rather than letting
his or her ego get in the way of what
might be best for me and my family.”
16
Although Art had to give up his law
practice, his days are filled with meaning and fulfillment because of the deep
Christian faith that undergirds his life
and sustains his spirit. He believes his life
is purposeful and that his illness is not
a random accident of fate. He believes
that the God who created him allowed
this experience to happen and that his
responsibility is to respond gratefully in
his situation for each day he is given to
honor and serve God. Art wrote the following statement on his Caring Bridge
website journal:
As I am recovering, I have been picturing myself as a piece of iron in the blacksmith’s forge
... placed into the fire, heated to almost melting,
then withdrawn to cool, while being pounded to
remove the dross and to be shaped into a useful
implement. It seems like I have felt the smith’s
hammer blows the past couple of days, but am
trusting He knows what He is making to be useful for His purposes, whatever those may be.
Art expresses his appreciation for Dr.
Schwerkoske and the care team. “They
have a deep care and concern for their
patients,” he observes. “And Dr. John
gives people the time they need. He
never rushes us. I always have a long list
of questions and he tells me the truth
without sugar-coating it. He has a sense
of quiet confidence that is contagious.
He knows what he is doing, and his staff
regards him so highly.”
Art’s vibrant faith has generated an
ongoing ministry helping and serving
many others who are going through difficult circumstances. He readily admits
Art and Pam Dickinson with their family: Willis,
Katherine and Madelyn
that he prays often for Dr. John and the
team because he understands that they
are interfacing with patients and families in crisis. He reports that Dr. John
says, “I’ll take all the prayers I can get.”
“They have a deep care and concern for their patients,” he observes.
“And Dr. John gives people the time
they need. He never rushes us. I always have a long list of questions
and he tells me the truth without
sugar-coating it. He has a sense of
quiet confidence that is contagious.
He knows what he is doing, and his
staff regard him so highly.”
Meanwhile, Art’s family is doing well.
The two older children are in college,
and the youngest is in high school.
“God is good,” Art states with a smile.
“That is my one non-negotiable. God
is good.”
Minnesota Oncology
Your American
Cancer Society
Can Help!
Turn to your American Cancer Society for the information, day-to-day
help and emotional support you need every step of the way — 24 hours
a day, seven days a week. There is no charge for most of the services
described below.
Look Good … Feel Better
These free workshops are designed to help women recovering from cancer deal with the unpleasant side effects of treatment, such as dry skin
and hair loss. Learn beauty techniques to enhance your appearance and
help restore your self-esteem. Offered in collaboration with the National
Cosmetology Association and the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association Foundation.
Hope Lodge
Traveling long distances to receive cancer treatment can be a physical
and financial burden to you and your family. Hope Lodge offers shortterm residences available to adult patients and an adult caregiver who must
travel at least 40 miles to undergo outpatient treatment in the Twin Cities.
A warm welcome and lovely amenities await you. Please visit our website
at www.cancer.org/hopelodgeminneapolis for more information. Come
visit us and see how Hope Lodge can be your home away from home.
TLC – Tender Loving Care
I Can Cope
We understand that a diagnosis of cancer can affect many areas of your
life. I Can Cope educational classes given by doctors and other health care
professionals provide you with information, encouragement and practical
tips on how to deal with cancer treatment. For more information, visit
www.cancer.org/onlineclasses.
Clinical Trials Matching Service
Our free, confidential matching service for cancer clinical trials nationwide is available to you. Get information about why cancer clinical trials
are important and the possible benefits to you and your family.
Great American Health Check
This quick online test will give you a personalized health check plan that
could save your life!
Health Insurance Assistance Program
Our free service is available to help you and your family with
financial issues.
Quitline
TLC is a not-for-profit website and a catalog of the American Cancer Society. Our mission is to help you cope during and after cancer treatment
by providing wigs and other hair-loss products (plus “how to” information), as well as mastectomy products.
Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of cancer. The American Cancer
Society’s telephone-based tobacco-cessation counseling service is available by calling (800) 227-2345. Whether you are a smoker wanting to
quit or someone who loves one, let us help you with support and proven
strategies for smoking cessation.
Transportation Assistance
Call (800) 227-2345 — available 24 hours a day.
The American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program can help you
with transportation assistance to and from your treatment facility.
Reach to Recovery
Hope and encouragement often comes from talking with people who
have been there before and understand your fears and concerns. Breast
cancer patients can be paired with a breast cancer survivor for support
and assistance.
Cancer Care Today
For more information about any of these
services, please call (800) 227-2345, or
visit www.cancer.org.
17
Angel Foundation’s
Kids Kamp
One art project had campers decorate rocks with their thoughts about the future.
Since 2005, Angel Foundation’s Kids Kamp has given children who have
a parent with cancer a place to let go of their worries for a few days.
Each year, dozens of kids who participate in the Facing Cancer Together
(FaCT) program come to Kids Kamp to play games, make movies, sing
— and realize in doing so that they are part of a community. “At Kids
Kamp, I learned that I’m not the only one who has a mom with cancer,”
one teen said.
Serving Families Facing Cancer
Organized by FaCT Co-Directors Janice Haines and Missy Lundquist
and Teen Outreach Coordinator Kelly Theesfeld, Kids Kamp was the
first major event FaCT held for the cancer community. The first camp
themed after the Wild West, lasted only one day and drew 45 campers.
This year, Kids Kamp ran August 3-5 and hosted more than 90 campers
from all across Minnesota. It has always been entirely free of charge, since
many families struggling with cancer don’t have the resources to send their
children to camp. Angel’s camp serves these families by giving them that
chance to let their kids have some fun in a community that understands
what they’re going through.
Each summer, camp begins when all the campers line up along the outdoor
basketball court. Counselors call out fun questions like, “Who likes pizza?”
and anyone who does takes a step forward. Finally, they ask, “Who has a
parent with cancer?” and everyone steps forward. Suddenly, kids who have
felt like they were alone in struggling with adult issues realize that they are
surrounded by caring friends with the same concerns.
A Place to Be a Kid
Amid Cancer Worries
dquist said. “We wanted to embolden kids to talk about their dreams and
their futures, because that’s what their parents would want.”
Everything that happens at Kids Kamp is centered on helping children
have the conversations they’ve needed to have and play the games they’ve
wanted to play. “Our goal is simple: to have kids leaving camp knowing
two things,” Lundquist explained. “First, that they’re not alone — there’s a
whole community to lean on or give back to — and second, that they can
still be a kid, play games, grow and learn even while going through tough
times with their families.”
“I learned how vulnerable a person can be,” one camper said, “but with
trust and teamwork, that vulnerability can disappear.” For three days every August, 90 campers from all over Minnesota come together and build
a community capable of having fun, supporting each other, and facing
cancer — together.
Angel Foundation provides families struggling with cancer with support programs and
emergency financial assistance for their non-medical expenses. Since 2001, we have given
out millions of dollars and worked with hundreds of families through our Facing Cancer
Together programs to help parents and children manage the stresses of the cancer experience
and meet their expenses in a financially challenging time.
One returning camper recalls that when his mom had cancer, his family
was going through some difficult times, and he constantly fought with his
brother. After going to camp, they stopped fighting. “We suddenly saw
ourselves as a team,” he said. “We could take on these challenges together.”
Having Fun Together
However, just as important as community-building is providing a safe place
to have fun. When a parent gets cancer, families often become focused on
survival, and “Fun is the first thing that falls off the list,” Lundquist said,
“even though you can much more easily deal with a negative experience if
you have positive experiences to balance it out.” Sometimes kids have almost forgotten how to smile, or that it’s all right to smile, when they come
to camp. By the end, though, even those who came in serious and tense
have remembered that they can laugh and be silly, immerse themselves in
something and lose themselves in play.
Each year, camp has a theme; this year’s was “2010 and Beyond,” so campers were asked to look to the future and imagine how it would be for them
and for the world. Each theme is worked into all the activities; kids wrote
about their hopes and dreams, made silly music videos on topics like “fashion in the future” and filled time capsules to open when they’re older. “The
future is very difficult to talk about when a family experiences cancer,” Lun
18
Top: A young camper (right) and FaCT co-director Janice Haines cast their worries into the fire. Bottom: Hula hooping on a beautiful sunny afternoon at camp.
The Great Book of Life
Family Heritage for the Generations
by Eleanor Vasey
Joel Larson, center, with Woodbury Clinic staff members Tim Gleiter, Admin Tech; Dr. Nicole Hartung; Bobbie Miles, RN; Celia Mattke, RN; Robin Florek, RN; and
Wendy Stahnke, RN.
T
he stream of thoughts that a cancer diagnosis brings cuts new
river beds in the mind and often turns the course of your dreams
and goals in a new direction. This was true for Hudson, Wisconsin, native Joel Larson as he dealt with a diagnosis of stage IV nonHodgkin’s lymphoma in 2003.
The Great Book of Life is a Web-based opportunity for people to post
a life chapter about themselves as a legacy to be published upon their
death, along with guidance concerning end-of-life issues and instituting
self-directed funeral service plans. His vision is to archive thousands of
life chapters saved for the generations.
When his insurance refused to cover a recommended bone marrow
transplant, Joel returned to Minnesota Oncology’s Woodbury clinic and
his primary oncologist, Dr. Nicole Hartung, who was undaunted and
began an aggressive course of chemotherapy that would continue for
five years.
“We are offering two services that complement each other; an End of
Life Planning Guide and the opportunity to create a chapter about your
life. This is designed so that you can leave a legacy in your own words —
not an autobiography or obituary, but the real story of what you loved,
your passions or even a favorite recipe,” Joel explains.
“I was in remission within the first year and held on during the process,”
Joel says. “The general philosophy was that the faster cancer goes away,
the quicker it is likely to come back.” He was considered high-risk for
the next three years, so chemotherapy continued. Joel’s cancer was already in the skull bones, so 11 spinal taps were performed over time to
ensure that it had not spread to the brain.
The best way to experience The Great Book of Life is to visit the website
at www.greatbookoflife.com. Chapters are available for a one-time fee,
depending on what you wish to include, and chapters can even be given
as gifts.
As Dr. Hartung and her staff journeyed with Joel and diligently applied
his therapy regimen over the years, his desire to make end-of-life plans
and leave a written legacy of his life grew, culminating in The Great
Book of Life business venture. Expertise from a 30-year career in hotel
and hospitality management, a grant from the Wisconsin Small Business
Association and the strong support of family and friends have helped to
make this vision come true for Joel and many others.
Cancer Care Today
“My heart is in it,” Joel says. “We have tried to do the best job we could
and are by no means done. We have 19 patents pending and are trying
to make a truly great book.”
Joel’s cancer is currently in remission, and he remains under the vigilant care of Dr. Hartung. It was with great joy and excitement that he
launched his Great Book of Life business on July 30, 2010.
19
THE SCIENCE
OF CARING
Minnesota Oncology Supports
ACS Relays for Life
Fundraising events continued into the late
summer and autumn, and Minnesota Oncology was there to support the community. Summer 2010 saw physician and staff
involvement in numerous ACS Relays for
Life, including Woodbury/South Washington County, Bloomington, Blaine, Burnsville, White Bear Lake and Waconia.
The 2010 Breath of Hope
Lung Run/Walk
The gray, low-hung clouds parted to reveal a
bright blue sky just in time for the start of the
2010 Lung Run at beautiful Lake Harriet in
Minneapolis. A large crowd was on hand to
support the cause, to celebrate with survivors
and to remember loved ones who lost their
battle this year. Sen. Amy Klobuchar welcomed the crowd and offered brief remarks.
Dr. Louis Jacques and Michele O’Brien, CNP,
greeted the crowd and received this year’s
fundraising award on behalf of Minnesota
Oncology, a major sponsor of this event,
along with Dr. Jacques.
2010 MOCA Silent
No More Walk for
Ovarian Cancer
The Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance
Silent No More 10th Annual Walk/Run was
held on Saturday, September 11, 2010, at
Rosland Park in Edina. This event raises
funds for ovarian cancer research, awareness and education of the disease and gives
support and hope to women and their families touched by ovarian cancer. Minnesota
Oncology has been a participating sponsor
of this event since it began in 1999. This
year, the Minnesota Oncology tent was
once again a popular booth, giving out
1,600 blue bandanas to the participants
and guests.
The Crazy Hair Booth was popular at Blaine’s Relay
for Life.
walkers who passed by. What a rewarding
and heart-warming experience it was —
both for the walkers and the cheerers!
Patient Appreciation
Week Celebrated at
Minnesota Oncology
During the week of September 20-24, Minnesota Oncology celebrated Patient Appreciation Week at all nine clinic locations
and at the corporate office. Throughout
the practice, staff members and physicians
sported colorful “We Love Our Patients”
buttons, while each clinic found its own
unique way of celebrating with raffles, food
and fun. This annual event is a hit with
staff members and patients alike because
it gives them a structured way to honor
the important relationship that emerges
between patients/families and their professional caregivers. Minnesota Oncology’s
message to each patient is: “Thank you for
entrusting your care to us.”
Cheering Station for 2010
Komen 3-Day Walk for
Breast Cancer
Top: Dr. Eric Weinshel and Dr. Louis Jacques support the Lung Run. Bottom: Dr. Matthew Graczyk
and Jill Lee, Office Manager, fill balloons at the
Lung Run.
20
The route taken by the 2,400 walkers for
the Twin Cities 3-Day passed in front of
Minnesota Oncology’s Maplewood Cancer
Center. Staff members at that clinic gathered at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday — armed with
balloons and holding signs with encouraging messages — and cheered energetically,
giving high-fives and thumbs-up to the
St. Paul Cancer Center celebrates with a cake for
patients and families.
Minnesota Oncology
Minnesota Oncology
News
Joseph Leach, MD
In August, Dr. Joseph Leach, Medical Oncologist,
joined Minnesota Oncology’s Minneapolis clinic. Dr.
Leach most recently served as staff physician in medical oncology at St. Francis Cancer Center in Shakopee. Dr. Leach will also join Dr. Matthew Graczyk on
the thoracic surgery/oncology team at Virginia Piper
Cancer Institute, where he will be able to expand his
interests in lung cancer research.
Sanda M. Morar, MD
On October 1, Dr. Sanda Morar began a full-time
practice of medical oncology at Minnesota Oncology’s
outreach clinic at the Cambridge Medical Center. In
addition to medical oncology, Dr Morar holds board
certification in hospice and palliative care. Dr Morar
recently moved back to Minnesota from Illinois, where
she practiced for the past two years with the Mid-Illinois
Hematology & Oncology in Normal, Illinois.
Matthew Graczyk, Thoracic Surgeon, Joins Minnesota Oncology
Minnesota Oncology’s Thoracic Surgery program
has expanded with the August 1 arrival of Dr. Matthew Graczyk. Adding to Minnesota Oncology’s
highly successful thoracic oncology/surgery program
in Edina and St. Paul, Dr Graczyk will take the lead
in developing a similar program at our Minneapolis Clinic as a joint initiative with Allina and Abbott
Northwestern Hospital, providing comprehensive,
evidence-based care and treatment of lung and esophageal cancers. Dr
Graczyk received his MD from the University of Minnesota and completed a fellowship in thoracic surgery at Rush Medical Center in Chicago.
Matthew Rudberg, PA-C, Joins
Thoracic Oncology Team
in Minneapolis
In September, Matt Rudberg, PA-C, joined the thoracic surgery/oncology team at the Minneapolis Clinic
location. Matt will support Dr. Graczyk’s surgical practice. Matt was previously employed with Colon and
Rectal Surgery Associates in Edina. He has special
interests in minimally invasive surgery and in survivorship — living with a cancer diagnosis.
Tiffaney Hammer, PA-C, Joins
SPCC GYN Oncology Team
In August, the St. Paul Cancer Center welcomed
Tiffaney Hammer to her role as Certified Physician Assistant on Dr. John Savage’s GYN oncology
team. Tiffaney received her professional training at
Iowa State University and Des Moines University in
Des Moines, Iowa. She is a native Minnesotan and
an avid Minnesota Twins fan.
Michele O’Brien, RN, CNS,
Is Keynote Speaker at Australia
Lung Conference
Michele O’Brien, Nurse Navigator for the Thoracic
Oncology Program, served as the keynote speaker
at the Third Annual Australian Lung Cancer Conference in Melbourne, Australia, on October 6-9,
2010. Michele’s invitation came from many years of
collaboration between Australia, the United States
and the United Kingdom. Following the success of
a nurse meeting held in San Francisco in 2009, the Australian Lung Foundation decided to invite a nurse from the United States and one from the
United Kingdom to the Australian Lung Cancer Conference to share their
experiences and nurse practice environments. 2010 is the Year of the Lung,
and activities are taking place locally, nationally and internationally.
Minneapolis Clinic Grand Opening
A Grand Opening Celebration to inaugurate Minnesota Oncology’s new
downtown Minneapolis
Clinic and to introduce
the newest additions to the
physician staff: Shou-Ching
Tang, MD, PhD; Matthew
Graczyk, MD; and Joseph
Leach, MD, was held on
October 7, 2010.
Dr. Tim Sielaff and Councilman Lilligren assist
Dr. Tom Flynn with the ribbon-cutting.
Expanded facilities offer subspecialty services, including
medical oncology, hematology, gynecologic oncology/surgery and thoracic
oncology/surgery, in a strategic partnership with Allina and the Virginia Piper
Cancer Institute.
St. Paul Cancer Center to Install New
Linear Accelerator
It is “out with the
old and in with the
new” in the St. Paul
Cancer Center’s
Radiation Therapy
Department, where
a new, state-ofthe-art linear accelerator is being
installed. The new
equipment has the
latest technology that allows for respiratory gating, on-board imaging, CBCT and IGRT for optimum efficiency and an enhanced patient
experience. Once the physics commissioning is complete, go-live for
treatments is slated for early December.
Many Thanks
to Our Advertisers
Allina Medical Laboratories.............................See page 22
American Cancer Society.................................See page 23
Amgen.................................................................See page 3
Angel Foundation.............................................See page 13
CB Richard Ellis................................................See page 23
Cephalon Oncology.........................................See page 23
Consulting Radiologists, LTD............................See page 6
Eli Lilly.............................................. See inside front cover
MEDSTAT Systems, Inc...................................See page 13
Messerli & Kramer............................................See page 23
St. Paul Radiology............................................See page 13
Suburban Imaging.............................................See page 22
Timco Construction..........................................See page 13
Walgreens Home Care.......................................See page 6
22
Minnesota Oncology
Cancer Care Today
23
MINNESOTA ONCOLOGY
2550 University Avenue West, Suite 110-N
St. Paul, MN 55114
Minnesota Oncology | P H Y S I C I A N S
Burnsville Clinic
Oakridge East
675 East Nicollet Blvd., Suite 200
Burnsville, MN 55337
Telephone (952) 892-7190
Paul J. Thurmes, MD
Medical Oncology/Hematology
Philip Y. Dien, MD
Fridley Clinic
Unity Professional Building
500 Osborne Road, Suite 215
Fridley, MN 55432
Telephone (763) 786-1620
Matthew T. Gall, MD, MS
Thomas A. Amatruda, MD
Avina K. Singh, MD
Jade G. Anderson, MD
Medical Oncology
Eric L. Weinshel, MD
David M. King, MD
Coon Rapids Clinic
Mercy Professional Building, Suite 311
3960 Coon Rapids Blvd.
Coon Rapids, MN 55433
Telephone (763) 236-9090
Stephen C. Mann, MD
Medical Oncology
Joseph M. Cardamone Jr., MD, FACP
L. Astrid Garino, MD
Medical Oncology
Noel Laudi, MD
Gauri Nagargoje, MD
Rajini Katipamula-Malisetti, MD
Annie Tan, MD, PhD
Gynecologic Oncology/Surgery
Edina Clinic
Southdale Medical Building
6545 France Avenue South, Suite 210
Edina, MN 55435
Telephone (952) 928-2900
Matthew P. Boente, MD
Louis F. Jacques, MD, FRCSC
General Surgery/Thoracic Surgery
Bibi S. Khoyratty, MD
Medical Oncology/Hematology/
Genetic Counseling
Mohammed K. Nashawaty, MD
Steven R. Rousey, MD
Mark D. Sborov, MD
Medical Oncology
Eric L. Weinshel, MD
Medical Oncology /Hematology
24
Maplewood Cancer Center
1580 Beam Avenue
Maplewood, MN 55109
Telephone (651) 779-7978
Ellen E. Bellairs, MD
Radiation Oncology
Matthew J. Graczyk, MD
Thoracic Surgery
John E. Savage, MD
Robert Delaune, MD
Joseph Leach, MD
Medical Oncology
Timothy R. Toonen, MD
Vladimir Hugec, MD
Margaret A. MacRae, MD
Medical Oncology
Vic Liengswangwong, MD
Radiation Oncology
Burton S. Schwartz, MD, FACP
Waconia Office
Ridgeview Professional Building
560 South Maple Street, Suite 100
Waconia, MN 55387
Telephone (952) 442-6006
Bronagh P. Murphy, MD
Medical Oncology
John E. Seng, MD
Martin S. Blumenreich, MD
Warren A. McGuire, MD
Radiation Oncology
Shou-Ching Tang, MD, PhD, FACP
Medical Oncology/Research
Steven R. Rousey, MD
Andrzej Petryk, MD
Paul J. Zander, MD
John A. Wangsness, MD
Medical Oncology
St. Paul Cancer Center
345 Sherman Street, Suite 100
St. Paul, MN 55102
Telephone (651) 241-5525
Woodbury Clinic
Cornerstone Medical Building
6025 Lake Road, Suite 110
Woodbury, MN 55125
(651) 735-7414
Minneapolis Clinic
910 Medical Place
910 E. 26th Street, Suite 200
Minneapolis, MN 55404
Telephone (612) 884-6300
Cheryl L. Bailey, MD
Stuart H. Bloom, MD, MSc
Patrick J. Flynn, MD
Medical Oncology/Hematology/Research
Thomas P. Flynn, MD
Dean H. Gesme Jr., MD, FACP, FACPE
Medical Oncology
Karin I. Armstrong, MD
Thomas P. Ducker, MD
Medical Oncology
Kathryn Farniok, MD
Radiation Oncology
Craig W.S. Howe, MD
Mark A. Palmer, MD
Radiation Oncology
Domingo G. Perez, MD
A. Catherine Casey, MD
Nicole L. Hartung, MD
Medical Oncology
John F. Schwerkoske, MD
Satellite Clinics
Cambridge Medical Center
Sanda M. Morar, MD
Medical Oncology, Palliative Care
Hutchinson, Aitkin, Crosby
Ronald D. Halvorson, MD
Medical Oncology, Hematology
Minnesota Oncology

cancer care today - Minnesota Oncology

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