NEW LEADING-EDGE RESEARCH + DEVELOPMENT + OUTREACH PROGRAMS Fall 2013
A Publication of the University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute
Without
Hope cancer your
wins.
+ New Imaging Tools + Survivor Story: Barbara Phillips + Life After Cancer
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Greater hope is in site.
AROUND THE INSTITUTE
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1660 Springhill Avenue • Mobile, Alabama 36604
Interim Director
From the Director
Ronald D. Franks, M.D.
Administration
Kenneth J. Bloch Mary Lou Bowers Laurie Owen, Ph.D Margaret Sullivan
MCI Physicians
Thomas W. Butler, M.D. Daniel G. Cameron, M.D. David R. Clarkson, M.D. Windy Dean-Colomb, MD, Ph.D. Michael A. Finan, M.D. Carole Wiseman Norden, M.D. Roger Ove, M.D, Ph.D Rodney P. Rocconi, M.D. John R. Russell, M.D. Suzanne Russo, M.D. Jennifer Scalici, M.D. William R. Taylor, M.D
Dear Friends,
J
MCI Member Physicians
ust five years ago, we opened the doors of our state-of-the-art, integrated cancer treatment and research facility. Since then, the University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute has grown to provide cancer treatments to over 7,000 patients, generating over 60,000 patient visits, in the last fiscal year alone. With approximately 300 employees and an expanding clinical and research base, we have assembled an amazing team of “minds conquering cancer.” At USA Mitchell Cancer Ronald D. Franks, M.D. Institute, it’s an entire team coming together to fight cancer…it’s the power of physician specialists, research scientists, referring physicians, patient navigators and others working to provide the most comprehensive and advanced cancer care possible. We are proud to serve all of south Alabama and the entire Gulf Coast region.
Warren R. Amos, M.D. Gerhard A. W. Boehm, M.D. Russell E. Brown, M.D. Ming-Chen Chang, M.D. Michael E. Damrich, M.D. Larkin J. Daniels, M.D. Jack DiPalma, M.D. D. Lynn Dyess, M.D. Matthew M. Eves, M.D. Edward R. Flotte, M.D. Lee Grimm, M.D. Curtis N. Harris, M.D. William R. Higgs, M.D. S. Bennett Hooks, III, M.D. Harvey Hsiang, M.D., Ph.D. Hamayun Imran, M.D. Shikha Khullar, M.D. Dimitris K. Kyriazis, M.D. Robert L. Long, M.D. Carl Maltese, M.D. David E. Mann, Jr. M.D. Anthony Martino, M.D. David H. Mull, M.D. Ronald B. O’Gorman, M.D., Ph.D. Allen Perkins, M.D William Richards, M.D. Paul Rider, M.D. Abdul Hafeez Siddiqui,M.D. Frederick M. Silver, M.D. Brad A. Steffler, M.D. James Stevens, M.D. Marcus Tan, M.D. Lee W. Thomas, M.D. Felicia Wilson, M.D. Zhiqing Xing, M.D.
ON THE COVER NEW LEADING-EDGE RESEARCH + DEVELOPMENT + OUTREACH PROGRAMS Fall 2013
A Publication of the University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute
Without
Hope cancer your
HOPE
mci Mitchell
Cancer Institute
MCI is wellversed in the language of cancer care.
Many exciting developments are underway at MCI that will only strengthen the outstanding clinical and research activities. In March of 2013 we announced plans to enter into a collaborative agreement with the University of Alabama at Birmingham Comprehensive Cancer Center. Joint activities have already begun as the two institutions forge productive partnerships to advance and accelerate clinical, translational and basic cancer research. These collaborations will enhance cancer health outcomes for the state, reduce health disparities and foster economic development that benefits us all. Never before has research in cancer been as critical as it is now. In our inaugural edition of “Minds Conquering Cancer” you will read about the exciting research underway at MCI as well as new clinical faculty, great outreach and community involvement and inspirational stories of hope and courage. We continue to build upon these accomplishments to win the war against cancer - one battle at a time. Thank you for your support of MCI. Together, we can make a difference in conquering cancer in our region and beyond. Sincerely,
MCI E
HOP
MCI
hope
Mitchell
Cancer Institute
wins.
+ New Imaging Tools + Survivor Story: Barbara Phillips + Life After Cancer
Ronald D. Franks, M.D.
Vice President for Health Sciences, USA Interim Director, USA Mitchell Cancer Institute
Minds Conquering Cancer | Fall 2013
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AROUND THE INSTITUTE MCI represents a total investment of over $135 million, including $85 million in construction and equipment.
At A Glance
USA Mitchell Cancer Institute In the fight against cancer, nothing should be left out. Everything matters. The leading-edge research. The state-of-the-art clinical services. The commitment to new screening tools, new treatments and new prevention techniques. It is the combined efforts of all the minds behind these efforts – scientists, physician specialists, primary physicians, and, yes, patients—that make the difference. This is why USA Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) focuses on the entire package of care. With a strategic goal of becoming a National Cancer Institute designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, MCI’s researchers and clinicians stand on the front lines in the battle against cancer. MCI takes pride in the accomplishments of the physicians, researchers and patients, and looks toward a progressive future of innovation that advances cancer treatment in our region and beyond. MCI is the only academicbased cancer research and treatment facility in the southern part of the state of Alabama and the entire upper Gulf Coast region.
MCI represents the largest single research endeavor in the history of the University of South Alabama, with a total investment of over $135 million, including $85 million in construction and equipment.
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MCI faculty and staff total approximately 300 employees, with continuous recruitment of clinical faculty and funded researchers underway.
Oncology teams at MCI include: Medical Oncology (six medical oncologists), Radiation Oncology (three radiation oncologists), and Gynecologic Surgical Oncology (three gynecologic oncologists). Together with Surgical Oncologists within the USA Department of Surgery, care is provided in a multidisciplinary team approach. In addition, MCI has over 32 associate, affiliate and member physicians within the service area. Overall growth in new patients exceeds 8 percent per year.
The 150-mile radius service area of MCI consists of over 4.1 million persons. In the last 12 months, over 7,000 cancer patients were treated at MCI, generating over 60,000 patient visits.
MCI clinical areas include a state-of-the-art radiation oncology department with the full continuum of radiation oncology modalities including: CyberKnife Stereotactic Radiosurgery System; TomoTherapy System; and, three Varian Linear Accelerators. MCI is one of five centers in the nation to offer the CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery System.
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The MCI Medical Oncology Division also uses a clinic located in Fairhope, Alabama, providing easy access to patients in Baldwin County.
A Publication of University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute
The USA Hospital System includes the USA Medical Center and USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, both academic tertiary specialty hospitals. The MCI cancer research enterprise includes 11 Principal Investigators/Individual Laboratory Heads, 14 postdoctoral trainees, eight graduate student trainees and over 27 specialized laboratory support staff.
The MCI research infrastructure consists of established core laboratory facilities in the areas of flow cytometry, advanced imaging, genomics, proteomics, pathology, tissue biobank and drug discovery. These phenomenal core laboratories provide the infrastructure to enable MCI researchers and USA College of Medicine researchers to be competitive for peer-reviewed grants, as evidenced in our rapidly increasing grant portfolio.
For the fiscal year 2013, MCI includes 11 established principal investigator groups, with 17 extramural grants. Of these 17 grants, 11 are supported through the National Cancer Institute. Cumulative extramural grant funding totals $16,459,290. On average, each Principal Investigator has $1,880,251 in extramural grant funding. Since 2007, MCI has filed 42 patents on inventions related to cancer diagnostics and/or therapy. As of September 2013, MCI has two technology platforms licensed to two companies, Swift Biotechnology (six patents) and Braintree Labs (two patents).
In 2013, MCI and the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Comprehensive Cancer Center entered into a declaration of intent to establish a Cancer Center Consortium. MCI has an unprecedented opportunity through a consortium with UAB to enhance its cancer research portfolio and to vastly enhance its prestige both regionally and nationally. Research collaborations are underway that will ultimately improve cancer outcomes and reduce cancer health disparities for the citizens of Alabama. This will lead to the enrichment of economic development within the state in various areas of biotechnology.
Give the
Gift of Hope USA Mitchell Cancer Institute brings hope to thousands along the Gulf Coast by making a significant difference in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. But hope doesn’t just come from within our building. It comes from our entire community. People just like you. When you make a gift to MCI, you become an important stakeholder in our mission and help provide hope to those suffering from cancer. One hundred percent of your donation supports cancer research or patient services at MCI. For more information, contact Kelly McCarron, Director of Development, MCI, at (251) 445-8423 or Kmccarron@southalabama.edu.
FREE
Subscription Minds Conquering Cancer
A Publication of University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute
For a free subscription to: MCI’s Minds Conquering Cancer, please call Kathy Eslava at 251-445-9819 or send an email with your name and address and request for a free subscription to keslava@health.southalabama.edu.
Minds Conquering Cancer | Fall 2013
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FEATURES
Survivor Story: Barbara Phillips
36 Life After Cancer
26 Love Lives On: The Legacy of Austin Lacey
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Minds Conquering Cancer | Fall 2013
Table of Contents A Publication of University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute
ISSUE 1 • VOLUME 1
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Microscopes put MCI on forefront of Imaging Technology
AROUND THE INSTITUTE
3 4 8 9 10 12 14 15 42
Letter from the Director MCI: At a Glance Moulton Leaves Lasting Legacy Member Physicians Part of MCI Team Donor Spotlight MCI Welcomes Kori Saucier New Medical Oncologist: Dr. Carole Wiseman Norden New Researcher: Dr. Chaitanya Nirodi New Surgeon: Dr. Marcus Tan New Surgeon: Dr. Lee Grimm, Jr. Dr. Finan Receives Research Award MCI Launches New Website Calendar of Events
RESEARCH 18 19 20 21
BioAlabama Day Clinical Trials Annual SGO Meeting American Cancer Society Grant
OUTREACH 30 32 33 34
Innovation Through Patient Navigation Colorectal Screening Health Initiative Oncology Outlook 2013 A Partner in Pediatric Cancer Care
DEVELOPMENT 39 40 41
Celebrate Hope Features Chef John Besh MASA Session Cash for Cancer Skeet Shoot Celebrating Hope NYC Style GO RUN Raises Over $76,000 Sunrise Rotary Club Gift Hope Golf Tournament Minds Conquering Cancer | Fall 2013
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AROUND THE INSTITUTE away from cancer on Sept. 28 at the age of 73.
MOULTON LEAVES LASTING LEGACY AT MCI President Emeritus Gordon Moulton, who led the University of South Alabama (USA) for 15 years and was instrumental in the founding of the Mitchell Cancer Institute, passed
“President Moulton’s bold and tireless efforts and commitment to MCI are beyond measure,” says Margaret Sullivan, deputy director for business development and outreach for the Institute. “Through his personal dedication, we have succeeded in providing outstanding cancer care to over 7,000 cancer patients per year and have over $16 million in grant funding to support cancer research. His legacy remains a cornerstone of MCI. It is one of the most rewarding parts of my professional career to have worked with President Moulton.” Moulton’s involvement in the creation of MCI started in 2000, when, as president of USA, he commissioned
MEMBER PHYSICIANS PART OF MCI TEAM Mitchell Cancer Institute’s member physicians are a vital part of our cancer community. They act as referring physicians, partners, and colleagues in their quest to give cancer patients the best treatment, imaging and diagnostic options available. Our member physicians are actively engaged in cancer patient care and work closely with the interdisciplinary team of MCI oncologists. They have access to clinical trials, the collective expertise of our interdisciplinary team of clinicians and researchers, and our core support research facilities. They can participate and collaborate in grant-funded and investigator-initiated research activities. Our physicians come from both inside and outside of our primary service area. In the Crestview area of Northwest Florida, MCI is pleased to work with the following:
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Minds Conquering Cancer | Fall 2013
a needs and economic analysis for the establishment of an academic cancer center. The resulting study demonstrated both the opportunity and potential financial viability of such a center. Moulton’s presentation to the USA Board of Trustees in December 2000 was followed by a unanimous vote to create the USA Cancer Research Institute. In 2006, after the Mitchell family pledged $22 million to the cancer institute, the Board voted to change the name to the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. In 2008, the state-of-the-art 125,000 square foot facility opened. Moulton and his wife, Geri, also donated $3 million to the Institute to help fund cancer research. The Institute’s main floor research area is named for the couple.
Dr. Warren R. Amos is a radiation oncologist who also practices in Fort Walton Beach. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, and earned his medical degree from the University of Miami Medical School. He completed an internship at Pacific Presbyterian Medical Center in San Francisco and a residency in radiation oncology at the University of Florida. Medical oncologist Dr. David E. Mann received a B.S. in chemical engineering from Lehigh University, and a M.S. from Pennsylvania State University. He earned his medical degree from Hahnemann University School of Medicine. Dr. Mann completed his internship and residency at the York Hospital and a fellowship in medical oncology and hematology from the University of Florida, Shands and VAMC Hospitals. Radiation oncologist Dr. James Stevens received a B.A. and a medical degree from the University of Nebraska. He completed his internal medicine internship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, and his radiation oncology residency at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. He also practices in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Shands and VAMC Hospitals.
By joining forces with physicians throughout our area, MCI is dedicated to serving as a resource for hope in the fight against cancer.
Dr. Joan Exline at Celebrate Hope 2011
MCI WELCOMES KORI SAUCIER As the daughter of Mobile physician Dr. Scott Saucier, Kori Saucier is no stranger to a medical environment. A native of Mobile, Saucier graduated from St. Paul’s Episcopal School in 2003. After receiving an Educational Services degree from BirminghamSouthern in 2007, Saucier worked with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for over five years. As MCI’s assistant director of development, Saucier is responsible for special events, which are also her passion. “I wanted to join MCI because of all the great local work and research that is going on. You can actually see where the money being raised is going.”
Donor Spotlight
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uring her four-year tenure at the University of South Alabama, Dr. Joan Exline made lasting contributions. Though she lost her battle with pancreatic cancer, she continues to positively impact patients at USA’s Mitchell Cancer Institute. Exline joined the University of South Alabama family in 2008. She quickly made her mark through her tireless work as associate vice president for institutional research and planning. She was instrumental in revamping processes and practices to bring the university into compliance with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) principles. She also chaired numerous committees and developed new programs within the university.
Dr. Joan Exline
In 2011, Exline was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Her own diagnosis inspired her to do more to assist researchers so that one day patients would have a better prognosis. She established the Exline Pancreatic Cancer Scientific Investigation Endowment Fund to support pancreatic cancer research. This is an area in which MCI researchers are actively engaged, with promising methods for early detection under development. “Joan’s desire to improve the quality of life for pancreatic cancer patients and work towards a curative solution was her drive behind establishing this endowment,” said Steve Green, Dr. Exline’s husband. She passed away on July 26, 2012.
As she fought cancer, Exline worked on a book, “A Cancer Battle Plan: Hope in a Fight You Didn’t Pick.” Though she died before it was completed, her sister, Susan Exline, promised to see it through. With the assistance of Green and friends, Susan Exline finished the book, which is available on Amazon.com and CreateSpace. All proceeds from sales of the book will be donated to Exline’s pancreatic cancer research fund, and 100 copies of her book will be distributed to patients at Mitchell Cancer Institute. Exline’s gift to MCI and her hopeful message will ensure that her legacy lives on to help improve the lives and survival rates of pancreatic cancer patients.
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AROUND THE INSTITUTE
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Minds Conquering Cancer | Fall 2013
Dr. Carole Wiseman
NORDEN
New Medical Oncologist
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or Dr. Carole Wiseman Norden, joining the staff at MCI in 2012 was almost predestined. As a native of Mobile, a graduate of University of South Alabama’s College of Medicine and the daughter of longtime USA physician Dr. Hollis Wiseman, it was home. “My father spent his life working at the university. I trained here and so I love it. It’s a real honor to be back here,” she says. Dr. Hollis Wiseman, a pediatrician, taught in the College of Medicine. He was both the director of medical education and the director of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the University of South Alabama Medical Center. That unit, now located at USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, is named after him. Dr. Norden’s mother, Janice “Teko” Wiseman, was a longtime civic activist in Mobile and Fairhope who passed away in 2011. “Both of my parents made certain that we kids understood that we had a privileged life in this country and exposed us to life in underdeveloped countries,” she says. “They instilled in us a desire and a drive to make a positive impact on the world in some small way.”
It was her father’s declining health, in part, that brought Dr. Norden to USA from a practice in Biloxi, Miss. He now lives with her. As for the pressure of following in his footsteps, “The fact that my brother went into pediatrics relieved me of any sense of obligation to be a pediatrician,” she laughs. “That allowed me to find my way in medicine.” She was inspired by her attending physician, oncologist Dr. Roy Martino, during her residency in internal medicine at the University of South Alabama’s College of Medicine and decided to pursue the field of oncology. “Dr. Martino was a consummate teacher and a deeply compassionate physician. He helped me realize that oncology is an ever-advancing field, that there’s no time to ever become bored. That was attractive to me.” She adds, “I also really felt drawn to people who desperately needed someone to support them through a crisis.” She became the first fellow in USA’s medical oncology program. Prior to joining MCI in 2012, Dr. Norden served as a hematologist/ oncologist with Coast Clinical Oncology in Biloxi. As a clinical oncologist and assistant professor of
interdisciplinary clinical oncology, she is still inspired and challenged by the field. “Some people think oncology is depressing, and obviously, I don’t see it that way,” she explains. “No matter what a patient’s facing, you just take it as it is and do the best you can for them. If they can be cured, great. If you can improve their quality of life or even allow them a peaceful death with dignity, then you’ve done something good for that person and that family.” Dr. Norden has a special interest in breast cancer, lung cancer and palliative care. Her passion is survivorship issues, which are the variety of emotional, physical and psychological challenges a patient faces after completing cancer treatment. She will spearhead MCI’s new survivorship program beginning in 2014. Dr. Norden holds board certifications in Medical Oncology and Internal Medicine from the American Board of Internal Medicine. She is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, and the Mississippi State Medical Society. She received her medical degree from the University of South Alabama College of Medicine.
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Dr. Chaitanya
NIRODI
New Researcher
D
r. Chaitanya Nirodi, joined MCI in 2012 as an Associate Professor of Oncological Sciences.
At MCI, Dr. Nirodi’s areas of research interest include understanding the mechanisms underlying tumor resistance to ionizing radiation in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and translating this knowledge towards the development of effective therapies.
Dr. Marcus
TAN
Tan, a native of Australia, earned his medical degree at the University of New South Wales in Sydney. He then completed an internship at John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, Australia. Following a move to the U.S., he completed a general surgery residency at BarnesJewish Hospital at Washington University in St. Louis,
New Surgeon
A
s a new assistant professor at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Dr. Marcus Tan brings a wealth of cancer knowledge to the area. “I was attracted to MCI by its excellent care of cancer patients and tremendous research opportunities,” said Dr. Tan. “My goal is to provide high quality surgical care for the complex cancer patient, especially those with liver and pancreas cancers, and sarcomas. It’s an exciting time to be part of MCI’s growth.”
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Mo., where he served as chief resident and received the resident teaching award. As part of his residency training, he spent three years performing translational and clinical research in pancreatic cancer and colorectal liver metastasis. Most recently, Dr. Tan served as a surgical oncology fellow at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York, where, as the David and Monica Gorin Sarcoma Fellow, he was recognized for treating patients with sarcoma through research and clinical excellence.
AROUND THE INSTITUTE
His lab focuses on revealing the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which the epidermal growth factor receptor, widely over-expressed in NSCLC tumors, manages repair of radiation-induced DNA damage. He received a five-year grant from the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute in 2008 for a project related to his cancer research. “The overarching mission of MCI is to provide the most effective cancer treatment to patients,” Dr. Nirodi explained. “Fundamental to this goal is research at MCI, which aims to identify and overcome challenges in treating various types of cancers and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
Clinicians and researchers at MCI form functional collaborations to tackle some of the most daunting challenges in cancer diagnosis and treatment. My goal is to use the knowledge gained from my research to inform and augment clinical trials that seek to improve radiotherapy for patients with lung cancer.”
Dr. Nirodi received his Ph.D. in biochemistry from the Indian Institute of Science in India. He attended the University of Poona, India, for his undergraduate degree as well as his master’s degree in zoology. His work has appeared in several journals, including Molecular Cancer Research and Cancer Research.
Previously, he worked as an assistant professor with the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, as a research instructor at Vanderbilt University in Nashville in the Department of Biochemistry and the Department of Urology, and as a research associate at Vanderbilt in the Department of Cell Biology.
Born and raised in Mumbai, India, Dr. Nirodi is a naturalized U.S. citizen and considers Mobile his new home.
Within the field of surgical oncology, Dr. Tan’s clinical interests are in cancers of the upper gastrointestinal tract, liver and pancreas, sarcoma and melanoma. He co-authored the chapter “Tumor Biology and Tumor Markers” in the 18th and 19th editions of Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. His research on pancreatic cancer and colorectal liver metastasis has been presented at numerous meetings and published in journals including Clinical Cancer Research, Journal of Immunology and Annals of Surgery. Dr. Tan is certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Society of Surgical Oncology, Americas Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, and Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons. He is seeing patients in the Surgery Clinic at USA Mitchell Cancer Institute and works with MCI medical and radiation oncologists on the development of multidisciplinary clinics.
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Dr. Lee
GRIMM, JR. New Surgeon
D
r. Leander (Lee) Grimm Jr. was recently appointed an assistant professor of surgery in the colon and rectal surgery division at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine. Prior to USA, Dr. Grimm completed a colon and rectal surgery residency at Baylor University Medical Center and a general surgery residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) in 2012, where he also served as administrative chief resident. He also served on the Administration and Recruitment Committee of the General Surgery Residency Program at UAB. Dr. Grimm, who grew up in Memphis, is a member of the American College of Surgeons, the American Society of Colon and
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Rectal Surgeons, and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons. He co-authored the “Lower GI Bleeding” chapter of Colorectal Surgery with UAB faculty member Dr. Melanie Morris. In 2006, Dr. Grimm was selected to participate in a senior field research elective studying traveler’s diarrhea in Guadalajara, Mexico, with faculty members from the Department of Infectious Disease at the University of Texas-Houston. Throughout his career, Dr. Grimm has participated in numerous community service efforts including Hurricane Katrina relief efforts and rapid health assessments at GRB Convention Center in Houston, the RMC Birmingham Area School Cleanup and Habitat for Humanity.
“As a physician, it is of vital importance not just to provide a specialized medical service, but to be hands-on in my regional community, ensuring that my community’s needs are met to the best of my abilities in an empowering, compassionate and timely manner,” he explained. Dr. Grimm earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from Southern Methodist University in Dallas and his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston. Dr. Grimm is seeing patients in the Surgery Clinic at USA’s Mitchell Cancer Institute and is actively involved in the development of multidisciplinary clinics working with MCI medical and radiation oncologists.
AROUND THE INSTITUTE
Copy copy copy copy copy, copy, copy, copy, copy, copy, copy, copy, copy, copy, copy, copy, copy, copy, copy,
MCI’s Finan Receives Best Research Award in Germany Dr. Michael A. Finan, chief of gynecologic oncology and professor of interdisciplinary clinical oncology at the Mitchell Cancer Institute, was recognized with the Eugene Bricker Award for best research at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the Society of Pelvic Surgeons in Germany in July. His research, titled “A Novel Proteomic-Based Screening Method for Ovarian Cancer Using Cervicovaginal Fluids: A Window Into the Abdomen,” co-authored by Dr. Rodney P. Rocconi, and Dr. Lewis K. Pannell of MCI, was presented at the Heinrich Heine University School of Medicine in Dusseldorf on July 9. The five-year study uncovered a protein fingerprint biomarker that has accurately identified women with ovarian cancer when compared to women without cancer. Through this fingerprint, the team was able to correctly identify early-stage patients with ovarian cancer who make up 33 percent of those evaluated. The work has resulted in a $1.1 million National Institutes of Health grant to fund a nationwide early-stage screening study for ovarian cancer. The technology has also resulted in six patent filings and has been licensed to Swift Biotechnology, a biotech startup company in Mobile. “Ovarian cancer screening has been one of the most difficult and challenging issues facing those of us caring for women in the field of gynecologic oncology,” says Dr. Finan. “I am hopeful that our research will lead to earlier diagnosis and a much better chance for a cure.” The Society of Pelvic Surgeons is an exclusive group of international experts in gynecologic oncology, urology and colorectal surgery. The annual meeting brings together members from the United States, Europe, Australia and Canada. Dr. Finan’s presence at the conference may also have a long lasting effect. Due to his efforts, the Society is considering the possibility of holding their 2016 international meeting in Point Clear, Ala.
MCI launches new website In the spring, the Mitchell Cancer Institute launched its new website, usamci.com. The completely redesigned site provides rich content and improved features for patients and their families, physicians, and researchers. Patients will benefit from a patient portal, which provides them with many services designed to make the health care experience more efficient. Current patients can use the portal to easily access lab results and other information related to their care. Detailed information on each physician, specific cancers, support groups, and outreach events with easily accessible “Find a Physician” and “Find a Clinical Trial” features are aimed at both patients and referring physicians. The new site is integrated into the current University of South Alabama Health System website, and uses the same content management software solution, meaning information can easily be updated in real time. In addition to an improved patient experience, the site will allow funding agencies, biotech companies, and pharmaceutical companies to learn more about the core facilities and research capabilities available at the Mitchell Cancer Institute.
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The grass is greener now for cancer survivor
Barbara Phillips
W
hen friends ask cancer survivor Barbara Phillips how she’s doing, she often smiles and says, “I’m on the green side of the grass.”
Her wry comment is a fitting response considering the challenges Phillips, 66, has faced and overcome by relying on healthy doses of humor, love and helping others.
While the colorectal cancer diagnosis was a shock, Phillips still believed it would be something she could deal with while her husband was in Maine caring for his mother.
A professional caterer, Phillips was diagnosed with Stage 3 colorectal cancer in May of 2012. She initially kept her diagnosis to herself so as not to upset her mother, who had contracted pneumonia and was in hospice care. Her mother would pass away that same month.
“I thought it would be short-term, an easy little problem,” she recalls. “I would just manage my treatments and be well when he got home. And that didn’t work out.”
Phillips had been having blood in her stool and diarrhea for about a year, but chalked it up to stress. She and her husband had been taking care of their elderly mothers, one of whom suffered from Alzheimer’s, and it had been a struggle. A
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Medicare Wellness visit to her gynecologist, Dr. Jenny Grace, set everything in motion and led her to Dr. Daniel Cameron, an MCI medical oncologist.
Minds Conquering Cancer | Fall 2013
Instead, so began more than a year of treatment and surgeries that, in addition to Dr. Cameron, would involve other members of her medical team including MCI member physicians Dr. Russell Brown, her surgical oncologist, and gastroenterologist Dr. Bennett Hooks.
A Positive Nature In December of 2012, Dr. Brown performed surgery on Phillips to remove 18 inches of her large intestine, and she got an ileostomy, a surgical opening constructed by bringing the end of the small intestine out onto the surface of the skin. She was hospitalized for nearly two weeks and then released under the care of a home health nurse, as she also had an ostomy pouch to manage. But since it was right before Christmas, and the home health nurses changed with each visit due to vacation, Phillips became self-sufficient. Plus, she had her husband of 17 years, Cushman, to take care of her. “He changed my appliance and my pouch and helped with wound care,” says Phillips. “He was, and is today, very involved with my medical treatment. My husband is the best nurse in Baldwin County.” The surgery also revealed that some of her lymph nodes were positive. She began another round of chemotherapy in February of this year that would last until August. Phillips acknowledges there were times when she was very discouraged. “I do get down, now. I can throw some pity parties. But my nature is to be positive and outgoing and to serve others. That’s me.” “Plus, I have a fantastic medical team. And the chemo staff
at MCI’s Fairhope office is like going home to Mama. Everybody is sweet, kind, and very professional. It’s all about the patient.” She also had family support. In addition to her husband, who she describes as her best friend, her son lives in Spanish Fort and her daughter is a major in the Army. Active in her retirement RV community, she and Cushman were used to being its social hub. As a professional cook, she would regularly make and take meals over to sick neighbors. She taught cooking classes at their clubhouse and hosted parties as she could. Through it all, she never lost her remarkable perspective. “You know, sometimes I was embarrassed when I went to chemo because there were some really sick people there. Even though I’ve got cancer, I consider myself in perfect health. I can eat. I can drive myself most of the time. I feel blessed.” A New Chapter After over a year of treatment, Phillips has literally started a new chapter. Recognizing Phillips’ outgoing nature and ability to bring people together, Dr. Brown approached her about starting an ostomy support group. She talked to her husband to get him on board, and together they decided to do it.
The Phillipses have formed the South Alabama Ostomy Support Group, Chapter 363, which is affiliated with United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA). They meet once a month in Baldwin County and Mobile for fellowship and a program from a medical professional who gives advice and answers questions. The group will have a local page on www.ostomy.org. In typical fashion, Phillips has thrown herself into her new assignment and recently returned from UOAA’s national convention in Jacksonville, Fla. And even though she plans to have her ileostomy reversed in December, she still plans to be involved with the group. Today, Phillips is cancer-free and looking to the future. As a master gardener with a yard full of plants, nature is a source of inspiration for her. “I have a stone in my garden that says, ‘One hour in your garden puts life’s problems in perspective,’ and I read that every day. And it is true. When you’re a gardener, you have a special relationship with God. I know he’s my protector and my fortress. I tell you… God has a plan, and I’m just waiting to see what it is.”
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RESEARCH
Entrepreneurs Showcase their work at
BioAlabama Day On June 28, Mitchell Cancer Institute hosted BioAlabama Day, an event promoting biotechnology innovation, on the campus of MCI. It was the first time that the organization has held the event in Mobile. BioAlabama Day included presentations from MCI leadership and representatives from two local biotechnology companies, Swift Biotech and Exscien Corporation. MCI’s Dr. Rodney Rocconi gave an update on the exciting progress being made by Swift toward the development of a clinical test for the early detection of ovarian and endometrial cancer. Dr. Mark Gillespie, chair of the pharmacology department at the University of South Alabama, reported on Exscien’s clinical development of an agent that can repair DNA damage in mitochondria and improve the quality and quantity of available organ transplants. Both companies are previous winners of Alabama Launchpad, a competition sponsored by the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama Foundation. “We were excited to have the opportunity to showcase the work our researchers and entrepreneurs have been producing from the Gulf Coast region of Alabama,” said Dr. Laurie Owen, BioAlabama board member and associate director for basic and translational sciences at MCI. BioAlabama is the state affiliate of the Biotechnology Industry Organization, a distinguished association comprised of biotechnology companies nationwide. The organization represents Alabama’s bio-related industries, research scientists, clinicians and business professionals who are working together to foster, develop and support the life sciences in Alabama. A BioMixer and tours of MCI topped off the event.
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Ongoing Clinical Trials at MCI Clinical trials lead to
Cutting-Edge Care Mitchell Cancer Institute is known for its high level of patient care. One important aspect of providing cutting-edge care is MCI’s participation in clinical trials. A clinical trial is a research study to evaluate a new drug or treatment. Clinical trials are offered in various phases ( Phase 0 - IV ). Phase 0 and 1 clinical trials involve a small number of people and are usually the first trials of the drug in people. Later trials, such as Phase III involve many more patients and compare new treatments to the best currently available treatment; Phase IV trials are conducted after a drug has been shown to work. At MCI, clinical research focuses on testing new therapies, optimizing existing treatments, discovering prevention methods and improving the quality of life for both healthy individuals and those living with cancer. For MCI researchers to participate in a clinical trial, the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at the University of South Alabama first must approve the protocol. Once they determine that the research is valid and that researchers have taken appropriate steps to ensure patient safety, it is approved. But even with IRB approval, the sponsoring company still might not select an interested site for study participation. It’s a competitive process. “Not every site gets selected,” says
Dr. Windy DeanColomb, an MCI staff medical oncologist who specializes in breast cancer. “I think that it says a lot about us as a smaller academic institution that we are able to get these trials.” Dr. Dean-Colomb, who completed her fellowship in medical oncology at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, came to MCI in 2011. “One of the things that attracted me to MCI was that I felt that I could leave M.D. Anderson and come to Mobile and provide the same quality of care. One way we do that is by making sure that we have a very robust, active, clinical trials program.” Of the 25 trials currently underway at MCI, Dr. Dean-Colomb is principal investigator for three. (See sidebar for
Belle-2 The Belle-2 Phase III study, sponsored by Novartis, targets women with Stage 4 breast cancer who are hormone receptor positive, but have not responded to the usual targeted drugs called aromatase inhibitors (AIs). Belle-2, which is a multi-national study, is looking at the next line of treatment. The trial involves the use of an injectable hormone blocker (fulvestrant) with the potential addition of a new drug (BKM120) that has been shown to target one of the escape mechanisms that hormone positive breast cancers can use when they stop responding to AIs. A Phase III study begins only if a drug or treatment has shown evidence of effectiveness in a Phase II trial. They involve large patient populations.
ECOG 2108 This study, for the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG), is a randomized Phase III trial studying the value of early local therapy for intact primary tumors in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Normally, when a woman is diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer she is not considered a candidate for local surgery or radiation because her disease has already progressed. However, it is known that in some cancers removing the primary tumor can actually help control the disease. This study will determine if this also applies to breast cancer. If the study has positive results, it will change the standard of care for Stage 4 breast cancer patients.
more information.)
She stresses that MCI is able to conduct trials because of the continued support of their patients. “Patients that participate understand that not only are they going to get standard of care, they’re getting the option of something new that has been shown in preclinical models to be beneficial,” says Dr. Dean-Colomb. “It allows them an opportunity to receive a treatment they normally would not get that could not only help save their life, but also the lives of many others.” To find out more about clinical trials at MCI, please visit the MCI website at www.usamci.com. The Clinical Trials section of the website has a search function that lists all available trials by tumor site.
ECOG 3108 ECOG 3108 is a Phase II trial correlating CYP2D6 activity in patients with Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer treated with single agent tamoxifen. An older, established drug, tamoxifen has been the first line of treatment for pre-menopausal women. But for postmenopausal women, usually treated with AIs, it’s become an “orphan drug” according to Dr. Dean-Colomb. This study will use tamoxifen earlier in the line of treatment for these patients and will focus on the role of CYP2D6, an enzyme that metabolizes the drug. Certain mutations in the enzyme can lessen tamoxifen’s effectiveness. A Phase II study is conducted only if Phase I studies confirm that the drug or treatment has acceptable levels of toxicity for patients and might show some benefit based upon preclinical studies. They are conducted on a smaller patient population.
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RESEARCH
Rocconi Presents Leading-Edge Research at
Annual SGO Meeting Mitchell Cancer Institute and Dr. Rodney P. Rocconi received national recognition at the annual Society of Gynecological Oncology (SGO) Annual Meeting on Women’s Cancer in March for leading-edge research in gynecologic oncology. Dr. Rocconi, associate deputy director of clinical research and gynecologic oncologist at MCI, presented two key pieces of research that were among six projects presented by the Institute at the conference held in Los Angeles. In the first study, “The Role of Racial Genetic Admixture with Endometrial Cancer Outcomes: A GOG study,” Dr. Rocconi and his team found that the genetic definition of race was more predictive of endometrial cancer recurrence and survival than self-reported race. In analyzing cancer specimens from 217 patients across the country for their genetic makeup, it was discovered that if a woman’s genetic ancestry was 72% or more of African descent, they were nearly eight times more likely to have an endometrial cancer recurrence and lower survival rates. This was significant in that it was the first report of its kind that linked racial disparity to the genetic definition of race.
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Dr. Rocconi stated, “Without question, a troubling racial disparity exists in endometrial cancer and patients of African-American descent. The greatest limitation in racial disparity research is the dependence on self-designated race. These results allow us to look at race in a new way and could be an invaluable tool in eliminating this disparity.” The second study was titled, “A Novel Proteomic-Based Screening Method for Ovarian Cancer Using Cervicovaginal Fluids: A Window Into the Abdomen,” co-authored by MCI colleagues, Dr. Michael A. Finan and Dr. Lewis K. Pannell. In this study, the team discovered a protein “fingerprint” that has accurately identified women with ovarian cancer when compared to women without cancer. This work has resulted in a $1.1 million National Institute of Health grant to fund a nationwide earlystage screening study for ovarian cancer. Because of this work, Drs. Rocconi, Finan and Pannell have become associate members of the National Cancer Institute’s Early Detection Research Network. The Annual Meeting on Women’s Cancer is the SGO’s premier educational event for members and other practitioners and allied health professionals from around the country who are interested in the subspecialty of gynecologic oncology.
MCI Researcher receives
American Cancer Society Grant The American Cancer Society (ACS) has awarded a grant of $720,000 to support Dr. Yaguang Xi’s research at the University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute and the University of South Alabama on preventing the spread of breast cancer. According to a recent report from the ACS, the survival rate for women who are diagnosed with localized breast cancer is 98 percent. However, if the cancer has metastasized to nearby lymph nodes (regional stage) or distant lymph nodes (distant stage), the five-year survival rate decreases to 84 percent or 23 percent respectively. Therefore, preventing the spread of cancer is critical to improve the long-term survival of breast cancer patients. Given the recent studies that show that daily use of aspirin can reduce the spread of cancer to distant organs, Dr. Xi and his team have set out to characterize a tumor suppressor, quaking (QKI) as the target of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) when preventing the spread of tumor cells in their study titled, “Quaking Mediates the Inhibition of Breast Cancer Metastasis by Sulindac.” They will be using the NSAID Sulindac because it is more effective than aspirin and readily available for clinical trials. Through his years of work as a surgeon, Dr. Xi has been motivated to protect patients from breast cancer progression and metastasis. “My career goal is to use my knowledge and findings to help women with breast cancer,” says Dr. Xi. “Early detection, early treatments and most importantly, prevention are the keys to eradicating breast cancer. This project will provide insight into the development of safer and more effective therapies with the long-term potential of eradicating this malignant disease.” Dr. Xi, who has been at MCI since 2008, is an assistant professor of oncologic sciences in the research department.
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Cell image: A confocal image of a cervical cancer cell, with the microtubule cytoskeleton stained green and the nucleus stained red.
MCI Aquires Exciting New
IMAGING TOOLS Mitchell Cancer Institute is on the forefront of imaging technology thanks to the gift of two new super-resolution microscopes, made possible by funds raised by Celebrate Hope. “You will not find both Nikon instruments in any cancer institute of our size,” says Dr. Joel Andrews, manager of the Cellular and Biomedical Imaging Facility. “In fact, we are the only cancer research facility in the country to house both technologies.”
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s, Andrew of Joel urtesy and Photo co ager: Cellular ility an Ph.D., M lar Imaging Fac cu Biomole
Representatives from Mitchell Cancer Institute and Nikon in the Cellular and Biomedical Imaging Facility.
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Co-Chairs Craig and Kelly Fowler
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n only four years, Celebrate Hope, MCI’s premier fundraiser, has generated more than $1.1 million in support of the institute’s research efforts. Through these funds and assistance by Nikon, MCI was able to purchase the two microscope systems, N-SIM and N-STORM, valued at $2 million. The purchase of these systems provides researchers with exciting new tools in their quest to cure cancer. Together, they provide a broad platform of technologies for imaging fixed or living cells and tissues. The technologies offered include sub-diffraction limit super-resolution imaging via Structured Illumination (SIM) or Stochastic Optical Reconstruction (STORM) microscopy; spectral, confocal and widefield fluorescence imaging; color imaging for histology; and an MMI CellCut Plus laser micro-dissection system. N-SIM visualizes cellular structures and molecular activity at resolutions never before achieved by conventional light microscopy. It can produce nearly two times the resolution of conventional optical microscopes. N-STORM provides dramatically enhanced resolution that is 10 times or better than that of conventional optical microscopes and is capable of 3D image acquisition. These capabilities enable MCI researchers to examine biological processes in living cells at sub-optical resolution and follow the effects of anti-cancer drugs in real time. “These two microscopes really give MCI a serious competitive edge,” says Dr. Andrews. “Because of Celebrate Hope, we are able to compete on a national and international level when it comes to getting grants and recruiting researchers.”
Celebrate Hope 2012 Attracts Capacity Crowd The 4th Annual Celebrate Hope gala held on Nov. 15, 2012, attracted a sell-out crowd and surpassed its fundraising goals, raising more than $340,00 in net revenue. Celebrate Hope is MCI’s premier fundraising event that offers an evening of delicious food, fine wines and live entertainment. Held under the tents on the grounds of MCI, guests enjoy the creations of local and well-known celebrity chefs along with specialty wine and beer pairings. The event featured Celebrity Chef Martie Duncan of Birmingham, a finalist on season eight of “Food Network Star”, who prepared pickled citrus shrimp. It was her mother’s battle with cancer that led her to cooking. Guests also danced the night away to the sounds of Big Swing and The Ballroom Blasters. The event was presented by Catastrophe & National Claims (CNC) and co-chaired by Craig and Kelly Fowler. All funds raised benefit MCI, the only academic cancer research institute in the upper Gulf Coast. The 5th Annual Celebrate Hope gala, sponsored by CNC, was held Nov. 21, 2013.
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When Austin Lacey was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer, he became determined, in the remaining months of his life, to do something to prevent others from going through what he’d experienced. His family and friends would have expected nothing less from the young man whose widow calls him “a doer.” When Austin made up his mind to do something, he did it. And so, before he passed away in May of 2011, he helped establish the Austin Lacey Fund to raise awareness of lung cancer among his peers, facilitate early diagnosis and provide support. He was only 28 years old when he died.
“ Austin knew what he wanted and went after it, he was absolutely a go-getter. – Haley Lacey
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Love Lives On
A Go-Getter A native of Fairhope, Austin graduated from the University of Alabama and headed to Birmingham, where he worked in sales for a commercial roofing company, quickly moving up to become a manager. He started dating Haley, an Auburn University alumna and dietitian who lived nearby and shared his circle of friends. “Austin knew what he wanted and went after it,” says Haley. “He was absolutely a go-getter.”
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n keeping with Austin’s “cando” spirit, his mother, Cindy Lacey, widow, Haley Lacey, along with other family members and his tight-knit group of friends, organized the Austin Lacey Blues Brunch fundraiser in his memory. The first annual event, held on Nov. 4, 2012, raised $50,000 through ticket sales, a silent auction and sponsorships. In February, the group presented a check to the Mitchell Cancer Institute to purchase a compound library that will help researchers fight cancer. Today, the gift is already making a difference, according to lead scientist Gary Piazza, Ph.D., who heads MCI’s Drug Discovery Research Center (see breakout box). “We’ve been so impressed with the researchers who have taken a personal interest in us,” says Cindy Lacey. “And the money is staying right here in our community. We were able to see exactly what $50,000 has done to further Austin’s idea that we don’t want this to happen to anyone else.”
Austin Lacey
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“He had met the love of his life, and they had a perfect life,” his mother remembers. The couple married in October of 2009. They built a new house and moved to Fairhope, excited to live near Austin’s family. But he started having some symptoms that, in retrospect, Haley Lacey says were warning signs of cancer: a cough that started in the morning but went away later in the day, unusual tiredness, and weight loss. Over the next several months, he was treated for pneumonia and upper respiratory infections, but even chest X-rays didn’t show the tumor that was growing quickly behind his heart.
be able to help others.” Just seven months after he was diagnosed, Austin died. The fund, which was established in his memory through The Community Foundation of South Alabama, began to be filled with donations, in lieu of flowers, at the family’s request. The couple’s group of friends rallied
always knew that, but this was a big reminder.” At the end of the day, the event raised $50,000 for the Mitchell Cancer Institute – $10,000 more than they’d hoped for – to pay for the compound library. “It was a wonderful surprise,” Cindy says. The success of the event has also ensured
The diagnosis of Stage 4 lung cancer came just two days after Austin and Haley celebrated their first wedding anniversary. Many people are unaware that lung cancer is the No. 1 cancer killer, Cindy Lacey says. “We never thought it would be lung cancer. Part of the mission of the Austin Lacey Fund is to raise awareness and to encourage others to know the warning signs and get regular checkups.” Lung cancer was an especially startling diagnosis because of Austin’s age and his good health. Austin and Haley spent two months participating in a clinical trial at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, which was difficult because Austin wanted nothing more than to be at home. “At the time, there were not a lot of resources where he could get that kind of amazing care here,” Haley says. “If we’d been able to do it at home, it would have been so much better.” Blues Brunch When he knew his illness was terminal, Austin told Haley, “It’s too late for me, but I want you to
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Gary Piazza, Dr. Laurie Owen, Ric Lacey, Maggie Lacey, Dr. y. Lace ard Rich Cindy Lacey and
around them and, as the idea for a Blues Brunch benefit came to be, they went all-out in support of it. “I was blown away by it,” says Haley, who can’t stop the tears from flowing as she recalls the way Austin’s friends sought corporate sponsorships and her own friends solicited items for the silent auction. Because November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, they picked the first Sunday of that month to hold the first annual event at Rodney and Gina Pilot’s Chapel Farm in Fairhope. Guests paid $75 per person to enjoy a catered brunch, including quiches from Austin’s friend Miller Phillips, who owns The Broken Egg in Birmingham. “Nobody left hungry,” Cindy says. “People are so kind,” she continues. “That’s probably the silver lining. I
Haley Lacey,
that it will continue. The Second Annual Austin Lacey Blues Brunch was held Nov. 3. Seeing how the money was spent was a “therapeutic” experience for Austin’s family, as Piazza led them on a tour of the Drug Discovery Research Center. “It’s a very impressive facility,” Cindy says. “We got to see everything and ask questions. It was great to see where it’s going.” Haley agrees wholeheartedly. “To have a facility like MCI is such a blessing,” she says. “It’s great to know that what you’re working for is actually doing something: helping to provide state-of-the-art care, close to home. I hope no one else has to go through what Austin went through. People shouldn’t have to go anywhere else for treatment.”
“ It’s too late for me, but I want you to be able to help others.
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– Austin Lacey
New Weapons Against Cancer Scientists at the Mitchell Cancer Institute’s Drug Discovery Research Center are working every day to find better ways to treat cancer patients. “Our mission is to identify new drug candidates for the treatment of lung, breast and colorectal cancer,” says Gary Piazza, Ph.D., the center’s chief and a professor of oncologic sciences and pharmacology. With the $50,000 raised at last year’s Austin Lacey Blues Brunch, the center purchased a library of chemically diverse compounds from its wish list. “The funding the Laceys provided will allow us to screen the chemical library against a new molecular target, that appears to play an important role in cancer,” Piazza says. The compound library, which was purchased this past summer, consists of approximately 50,000 chemically diverse compounds with drug-like properties that will give scientists in the MCI Drug Discovery Research Center a valuable resource for identifying new weapons against cancer. MCI researchers are searching for inhibitors of an enzyme, referred to as phosphodiesterase 10, that they found to be elevated in cancer cells and essential for tumor cell growth. Recently they identified a “promising inhibitor,” Piazza says, “the compound was highly effective and was without apparent toxicity in an experimental model of human lung cancer.” Piazza has filed a patent application on the new molecular target as well as known drugs that are being developed by pharmaceutical compounds, but for other indications. “We hope to develop new drugs or repurpose existing drugs for cancer from this important discovery.”
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OUTREACH
Innovation Through
A cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming, exhausting and complicated ordeal, particularly for an older patient. But starting in September, many cancer patients at the Mitchell Cancer Institute will have the assistance of a patient navigator to guide them along their journey.
Patient Navigation
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M
CI, as a consortium partner with the University of Alabama at Birmingham, is participating in a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) grant, and has added four lay navigators. These trained, non-nursing professionals provide individual assistance to patients. The program is geared to Medicare patients over 65 with cancers that require more extensive treatment like those of the brain, head and neck, lung, pancreas, ovaries, blood disorders like leukemia, and any Stage 4 cancer. “The biggest advantage of a lay navigator is that they understand what it’s like to be on the nonmedical side of a diagnosis and can communicate from that perspective,” says Tracy Hammack, manager of the program. “It makes them a strong advocate for the patient.” Additional advocacy is sometimes needed for patients over 65 who generally have other issues that complicate their care. Many have existing medical conditions that can impact their response to treatment. They also may be dealing with personal obstacles like lack of transportation or family support or being the primary caregiver of an elderly spouse. A navigator will be assigned to a
patient after their cancer diagnosis to help them and their caregivers decipher the overwhelming information provided to them, guide them through their treatment program and assist with the complexities of the healthcare system. They will also help identify barriers to care and match patients with the appropriate resources. “By connecting patients and their families to resources that they may not be aware of, the navigator can help empower them to take a more active role in their own treatment,” adds Cathy Tinnea, nurse navigator and site manager for the CMS grant. The navigators will be in close communication with the doctors and nurses at MCI to make sure that the patient’s needs and concerns are addressed throughout the course of their treatment. Navigators will also act as a liaison with the patient’s primary care physician to ensure continuity of care. A patient can receive as little or as much assistance from the navigator as they need. Younger, more independent patients or those with strong family support may not have as much need for the service. The goal of the program is to prove that patients get a better quality of care at a lower cost with the guidance of a navigator. Through
increased communication, oversight, and early intervention, the program hopes to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits and decrease unplanned hospital admissions. MCI, UAB, and its 10 network members in four states, will be providing data to CMS under this study. The program will run through March 2015. While the lay navigator program is limited to a specific patient population now, Hammack is hopeful that it will expand to include a larger portion of MCI’s cancer community. “We believe very strongly that this is going to be of great benefit to our patients. I think we will also see a cost benefit from the program and if this is the case, we will see expanded services for other MCI patients.” With the goal of improved health outcomes through a cost-effective delivery system, the lay navigation program may prove to be a model for providing value-added services to patients with chronic disease that can be adopted by many others. MCI, through this program and its multidisciplinary approach to cancer care, has at the core of its mission to create improved outcomes for cancer patients, provide assistance to its referring physician partners and be a preferred provider of oncology services.
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OUTREACH
Colorectal cancer screening is no laughing matter University of South Alabama (USA) employees over the age of 50 received free colorectal cancer screening in early summer as part of the 2013 USA Employee Health Promotion Campaign. The Mitchell Cancer Institute partnered with USA Human Resources, USA Family Medicine and the Mobile County Health Department to offer the service. The reason is clear: Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Alabama. Yet it is very treatable when detected in its early stages. The age of 50 is the magic number because it is recommended that people who have no identified risk factors other than age begin regular screening at that age. Employers’ interest in workplace health and wellness programming as a business strategy is also on the rise. The benefits of these programs are evident to Pamela Henderson, assistant vice president of human resources for USA. “At USA, we recognize the importance of employee wellness. Screening for early detection of colon cancer is one of many steps that employees can voluntarily take to maintain good health,” says Henderson. Still, the topic of colorectal screening makes most people a little uncomfortable, so the promotional campaign acknowledged that discomfort: “Colorectal cancer screening may make some people snicker… but it’s no laughing matter.” The testing offered included a free F.I.T. (Fecal Immunochemical Test) for participants to take home and mail back at their convenience. If the employee already had certain risk factors, it was recommended they get a colonoscopy instead. As an added incentive, participants were automatically entered into a prize drawing to win a $500 Best Buy gift card.
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More than 2,000 mailers were sent out to employees over 50. Sixty percent of this group had already been screened, leaving 870 eligible for the test. Of the 144 F.I.T. kits picked up at various distribution sites, 105, or 73 percent, were returned. The screenings yielded two positive results, so two lives may have been saved. The tests were processed at the USA Family Medicine Clinic under the guidance of Dr. Allen Perkins, professor and chair of Family Medicine in USA’s College of Medicine. “Part of the purpose of this program was to present people with testing options. The F.I.T. test is equally effective and less invasive than a colonoscopy. You just have to get it done annually instead of every ten years,” said Dr. Perkins. “Bottom line, both colonoscopies and F.I.T. testing save lives.” Suzanne Robbins, who works for the Institutional Review Board at USA, was the lucky winner of the Best Buy card. At 54 years old, she knew she was supposed to get a colonoscopy, but the process seemed unpleasant, time-consuming and overwhelming. “I liked the F.I.T. test because I can do what comes naturally, and drop the test in the mail when no one’s looking,” she said. “You get the results back in a nice, quiet envelope with the rest of the mail and you’re done. It was easy, quick and anonymous.” According to USA’s Henderson, “We are pleased with the outcome of the first F.I.T. promotional campaign and look forward to working with the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute on future campaigns designed specifically for our employees.”
The initiative was funded by a grant from the Alabama Department of Public Health FITWAY program. To learn more about the FIT test and the program please contact Lakeisha Felder at lfelder@health.southalabama.edu.
Oncology Outlook 2013 focuses on lung cancer The University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute hosted the 4th Annual Oncology Outlook 2013 on March 15-16, at the Marriott Grand Hotel in Point Clear. The event drew over 100 attendees who received updates on the latest treatments for lung cancer and emerging technologies in the field. The conference was held during the popular Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival, so attendees and their families were able to enjoy the event during their free time. Dr. Anthony Martino, Chair of the USA Department of Neurosurgery, served as the program’s director. Next year’s event will be held March 14-15, 2014 at the Grand Hotel. For more information visit usa-cme.com or contact Susan Crutchfield at 251-445-9829 or at scrutchfield@health.southalabama.edu.
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OUTREACH
Regional Referral Center and the only pediatric cancer provider in the region
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The University of South Alabama Children’s & Women’s Hospital nearly doubled its size when it dedicated its new, 195,000-squarefoot expansion on Thursday, Sept. 12.
treat the region’s children. The $72.6 million expansion, funded by the USA Health System and the USA Foundation and private gifts, features more space for the hospital’s neonatal and pediatric intensive care units, additional operating rooms, and larger patient rooms to better accommodate visitors and families. Two “family rooms” have been created by Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile. The hospital also features the award-winning USS Hope pediatric cancer and sickle cell treatment center, and the region’s only Level III neonatal intensive care unit and pediatric intensive care unit. The Mapp Child and Family Life therapy program addresses developmental, physical, and emotional needs of young patients, and includes the unique Class Act school that teaches nearly 1,000 children every year. At MCI, ongoing pediatric cancer research efforts are underway that focus on finding better treatment for pediatric patients with acute myeloid leukemia.
The University of South Alabama’s (USA) Mitchell Cancer Institute, in partnership with USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital and its team of pediatric medical oncologists, provides the only pediatric cancer services in the Gulf Coast region. With the recent 195,000-squarefoot expansion at the hospital that nearly doubled its size, the hospital has even more services to
In addition to providing pediatric patients with the best care available, MCI and Children’s & Women’s strive to find ways to incorporate fulfilling activities that engage children. The “Gifted Masterpieces” paint program, founded by local artist B’Beth Weldon, allows pediatric cancer patients to express their creativity through painting workshops. Hospital Administrator Owen Bailey says, “This program is very special. Anything we can do to see smiles on the children’s faces and witness their creativity is amazing.” Together, the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute and USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital provide excellent care in state-of-the-art facilities close to home.
Gifted Masterpieces
Polo at the Point Local artist B’Beth Weldon founded the Gifted Masterpieces program in 2010 to give special needs and critically ill children and their families the opportunity to paint. During these workshops, she works hands-on with participants to create beautiful creations. Earlier this year, Weldon brought her program to USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital offering workshops to pediatric cancer patients. Their masterpieces became part of the Polo at the Point charity event that was held Oct. 26 at Sonny Hill/Clearwater Farm in Point Clear. A selection of the paintings created by Weldon and the patients were auctioned at the event, with the proceeds supporting pediatric cancer research at MCI.
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LIFE AFTER CANCER Focusing on survivors
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The news is encouraging. Through early detection and prevention, more people are surviving cancer each year. According to the American Cancer Society, there are now more than 13.7 million cancer survivors in the United States. That number is expected to grow to nearly 18 million by 2022.
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ut graduating from being a patient to a survivor doesn’t always bring peace of mind or mean the ordeal is over.
“The minute patients finish their treatment, they think they’re going to be so relieved,” says Mitchell Cancer Institute Oncologist Dr. Carole Wiseman Norden. “Instead, they’re overwhelmed by the fear that it’s going to come back.” It’s not only the fear of recurrence. Sometimes patients need guidance on making lifestyle or dietary changes to improve their long-term health. They might be dealing with financial fallout from the cost of care, or battling lingering side effects from treatment. Long-term survivorship can be both hopeful and stressful. A patient has completed treatment, but still may have issues that affect his/her quality of life and physical, emotional, social or spiritual well-being. Cancer Survivorship has been described as having three distinct phases: living with, through and beyond cancer.
Living with cancer
refers to the experience of receiving a cancer diagnosis and any treatment that may follow.
Living through cancer
is the period following treatment, usually five years, in which the risk of cancer recurring is relatively high.
Living beyond cancer
refers to post-treatment and long-term survivorship. While most survivors say their lives return to normal, some report continuing issues. While there’s a recognized need for some kind of aftercare for patients, oncologists typically don’t have the staff or resources, since they’re focused on treating patients with active cancers. That’s why many cancer treatment facilities across the country are developing survivorship programs to help improve survivors’ quality of life after cancer treatment.
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A Holistic Approach The Commission on Cancer is requiring that accredited facilities like MCI provide survivorship care plans to patients by 2015. But a survivorship plan is just a piece of paper if there’s no one to guide the patient through the guidelines. It’s easy to get lost. MCI is taking that requirement and going one step further by putting together an integrated approach to survivorship, including the development of care plans and the coordination of supportive services and resources for cancer survivors. Dr. Norden is spearheading the MCI survivorship program. “An integrated approach to survivorship offers a holistic approach
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that addresses other areas of care. So a person could conceivably come see a physician and move to other services available to them,” she says. “That might involve a physical therapist, psychologist or nutritionist. Everybody’s needs are different, which is why there will be a survivorship care plan for each patient.” Keeping with MCI’s mission, an integral part of the program is research and gathering data to determine the best models for meeting referring physician and patient needs. Dr. Norden has no doubt patients will benefit from a hollistic approach to surviorship, “I think you will see a very positive response from patients to this program,” she says. “If we can improve a patient’s quality of life and long-term outlook, that, in my mind, is success.”
DEVELOPMENT
Celebrate Hope 2013
Features Chef John Besh
Renowned New Orleans chef John Besh worked his culinary magic at the 5th Annual Celebrate Hope gala on Nov. 21, on the grounds of the Mitchell Cancer Institute. Presented by Catastrophe & National Claims (CNC), the celebration began at 6 p.m. It is the second year in a row that CNC has presented the event. Besh, a Louisiana native, is best known for his nine acclaimed restaurants, including August, Besh Steak at Harrah’s, Lüke and Borgne in New Orleans. Food & Wine magazine named him one of the Top 10 Best New Chefs in America, and he won the coveted James Beard Award for Best Chef of the Southeast in 2006. He prepared a dish from his third cookbook, “Cooking from the Heart.” Autographed copies of the book were available to purchase at the event. “The Celebrate Hope fundraiser is devoted to cancer research in our community,” says Cort Fowler, Jr., President of CNC. “MCI has a special place in our hearts as our family knows firsthand how the care and “hope” that MCI provides can lead to a cure.”
As usual, Celebrate Hope 2013 fulfilled its promise of an evening of delicious food from celebrity and local chefs, fine wines and live entertainment from the Tayo Reed Explosion. Held under tents at MCI, the event featured stunning floral displays from Dennis Harris of Zimlich the Florist. Craig and Kelly Fowler returned as this year’s co-chairs. “Kelly and I are honored again to be the co-chairs for the 5th Celebrate Hope. It is through the tremendous support of Mobile and the surrounding communities that it continues to grow and be the premier event of the season. It’s great that 100 percent of the profits go toward cancer research at MCI.” The event was sold out once again. Beau Rivage Resort and Casino will host a Premier Partner Package for sponsors of Celebrate Hope on Jan. 31, 2014 with Vince Gill as the headliner. Funds from this year’s gala will be used to update the Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Core Laboratory at MCI. Established more than 10 years ago, the lab provides researchers with technology to identify and characterize proteins for the early detection of cancer.
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Skeet Shoot Raises Funds for Research On May 11, the 3rd Annual Cash for Cancer Skeet Shoot and Gathering was held at Dennis Lake Wing Club in Bay Minette, Ala. The event is in memory of Jim “Cash” McConnell and others who have lost their battle to cancer.
MASA Session Held in Mobile Mitchell Cancer Institute was a sponsor of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama’s (MASA) annual session at the Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel April 11-14. They also hosted a dinner for the organization’s leadership at MCI. The session explored opportunities available for physicians at all stages of practice – from the student level to those who have retired.
As with previous years, all proceeds from Cash for Cancer benefit the Mitchell Cancer Institute. Funds from the 2012 event were used to help purchase a single cell PCR system for the Flow Cytometry Core Research Laboratory. This year’s event raised $12,000 for a microtome, an essential instrument used in cancer tissue research, for MCI’s Cancer BioBank Tissue Repository.
Celebrating Hope NYC Style
GO RUN Raises Over $76,000
On April 5 over 300 attendees gathered at the Bowery Hotel in New York City for the 5th Annual Celebrate Hope – NYC to benefit breast cancer research at the Mitchell Cancer Institute.
The 6th annual GO RUN 5K/1 mile Fun Run on Sept. 14 drew 1600 participants and raised more $76,000 for gynecological cancer research at the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute.
The event was founded by the granddaughters of Mayer and Arlene Mitchell: Abby Grodnick Kennedy, Meryl Grodnick Fishman, Leah Grodnick, Meredith Wertheim Blechman, Julia Wertheim and Eve Wertheim. While the celebration draws a crowd who are out to support a good cause and have a great time, CH-NYC also raises awareness of MCI among a group of younger donors, most of whom have no connection to Mobile. The event and silent auction raised $45,000. 40
The main event was the Five Stand Clay Tournament, along with a full lineup of fun: live music, free food and drinks, a trick shot competition, a cornhole game for a chance to win prizes, and door prizes.
Minds Conquering Cancer | Fall 2013
The GO RUN featured a new race route around the University of South Alabama campus, a kid’s zone, food and drinks, and an afterparty with live entertainment. There was also an unusual display of support from MCI oncologists. Drs. Michael Finan and Rodney Rocconi shaved their heads and Dr. Jennifer Scalici dyed her hair teal and purple in honor of their patients and women everywhere who suffer with gynecologic malignancies.
DEVELOPMENT
Sunrise Rotary Club Gift Helps Fund Resource Center In March, the Rotary Club of Mobile-Sunrise gave $125,000 to the University of South Alabama (USA) to provide patient and family resources for USA Mitchell Cancer Institute and fund scholarships for incoming USA students. Left to right: Dr. Joseph Busta, the Rev. Drew J. “Jerry” Gunnells Jr., Edward Dismukes and Bob Williams.
“The Mobile-Sunrise Club gift will provide hope for healing for current and future cancer patients and give area students the opportunity for a college education,” said Edward Dismukes, the organization’s president. “We chose USA because of the positive and broad educational and health benefits the institution provides to our community.” A portion of the gift, $75,000, will establish a patient and family resource center for USA Mitchell Cancer Institute. Funds will be used to provide educational DVDs, CDs and books to help patients and their families cope with a cancer diagnosis. The resource center is located in the main lobby of MCI, in front of the Window of Hope. The remaining $50,000 will fund the Rotary Club of Mobile-Sunrise Scholarship Endowment Fund, which qualifies for a USA scholarship match, making it a $100,000 scholarship. The endowment funds will be used to award scholarships to incoming freshmen. According to Dr. Joseph Busta Jr., vice president of development and alumni relations at USA and a Rotary Club member, “These programs are truly beneficial to all concerned and will be of great value to students, and to those battling cancer, forever.”
Inaugural Golf Tourney a Sold-Out Success The Inaugural Hope Cup Golf Tournament, presented by Springhill Toyota, was held on June 20 at The Country Club of Mobile. The sold-out event drew 26 teams and over 100 golfers with even more on a waiting list, who raised a net profit of over $40,000 to support research at MCI. The late University of South Alabama President Gordon Moulton served as the honorary starter. There were many winners and unusual challenges, like the survivor putt where cancer survivors positioned at certain holes would putt for a golfer for a price. The JMG Realty team was the overall tournament winner. Pilot Catastrophe Services, Inc., Budweiser-Busch Distributing Co, Inc., Hurricane Electronics, JMG Realty, Larry Wooley, Alabama Power, Lexus of Mobile, Evonik Industries, and Symbol Health Solutions were among the event’s many sponsors.
Left to right: Bert Meisler, Michael Boroughs, Jimmy Grodnick and Willie Ransom (not pictured) of the JMG Realty team were the overall tournament winners.
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Past, Present & Future
EVENTS 09.14.13 GO Run 5K/1 mile fun run benefiting Gynecologic Cancer Research USA Campus, Moulton Tower www.usahealthsystem.com/gorun
10.10.13 Joy to Life Laidlaw Auditorium, USA Campus www.joytolife.org
10.24.13 Think Pink Mitchell Cancer Institute
10.26.13 Polo at the Point Sonny Hill- Clearwater Polo Complex
10.27.13
The USA Mitchell Cancer Institute’s lobby was decked out in pink in celebration of the fourth annual Think Pink Tea on Oct. 24. The Tea was held as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month at no charge and drew a mixture of patients, survivors, and their supporters. In fact, anyone who wanted to hear an inspiring message, learn more about survival strategies, see a fashion show, and enjoy delicious treats from Martha Rutledge Catering, was welcome. Guests were also eligible for door prizes. “This was about celebrating women and the month of October and breast cancer survivors in the communities we serve,” says Margaret Sullivan, deputy director of business development and outreach at MCI. Children’s & Women’s Hospital co-sponsored the event. The highlight of the tea was a fashion show featuring cancer survivors as models. Geri Moulton served as keynote speaker.
11.21.13 5th Annual Celebrate Hope Mitchell Cancer Institute
Tennis for Tatas Mobile Tennis Center
05.18.14
11.02.13
Bikers Battling Breast Cancer Boondocks Bar & Grill
Salty Worm Brackish Classic and Delta Bash benefiting Pancreatic Cancer Research Bluegill Restaurant www.saltyworm2013.eventbrite.com
06.01.14
11.03.13 Blues Brunch Pilots’ Chapel Farm in Fairhope. For more information, contact Cindy Lacey at cblacey@gulftel.com.
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Thinking Pink in October
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National Cancer Survivor’s Day Mitchell Cancer Institute
07.12.14 Hope Cup Golf Tournament Mobile Country Club
Thomas W. Butler, M.D. Medical Oncology
Daniel G. Cameron, M.D. Medical Oncology
David R. Clarkson, M.D. Medical Oncology
Windy DeanColomb, M.D., Ph.D. Medical Oncology
Michael A. Finan, M.D. Chief, Gynecologic Oncology
Carol Wiseman Norden, M.D. Medical Oncology
Roger Ove, M.D., Ph.D. Radiation Oncology
Rodney P. Rocconi, M.D. Gynecologic Oncology
John R. Russell, M.D. Chair, Department of Radiation Oncology
Suzanne Russo, M.D. Radiation Oncology
Jennifer Scalici, M.D. Gynecologic Oncology
William R. Taylor, M.D. Medical Oncology
Non-Profit Non-Profit U.S. Postage Postage U.S. PAID PAID Mobile, AL AL Mobile, Permit No. No. 506 506 Permit
USA Mitchell Mitchell Cancer Cancer Institute Institute USA 1660 Springhill Springhill Avenue Avenue 1660 Mobile, AL AL 36604-1405 36604-1405 Mobile,
For appointments appointments call: call: For (251) 665-8000 665-8000 or or (251) 1-800-330-8538 1-800-330-8538 To learn learn more more about about our our To clinical services services see see our our website: website: clinical www.usamci.com www.usamci.com
UpCOMINg MCI EVENTS September 17, 2011
4th Annual GO for Gynecologic Oncology 5K/1 Mile Fun Run/Walk 8:00 a.m. USA Main Campus Mitchell Center Lawn Benefits GYN cancer research
October 23, 2011
2nd Annual Tennis for Tatas 1:00 p.m. Mobile Tennis Center Benefits breast cancer research
October 27, 2011 October 18, 2011
5th Annual Eastern Shore Toyota and Eastern Shore Hyundai Golf Tournament 11:00 a.m. Timbercreek Golf Club Daphne, Alabama Benefits Shawn and Leyla Esfahani Breast Cancer Research Endowment
Stay connected to the MCI. Scan with your smartphone or visit us at www.usamci.com (Download aa free free QR QR code code reader reader application) application) (Download
follow us on facebook: USA Mitchell Cancer Institute
2nd Annual Think Pink Tea 4 – 6 p.m. Mitchell Cancer Institute Co-sponsored by Infirmary Health System
November 17, 2011
3rd Annual Celebrate Hope gala 6:00 p.m. Mitchell Cancer Institute Benefits cancer research
for more information on how you can sponsor, participate or volunteer for MCI Special Events, please contact Abbie McCullough at 251-460-7032 or e-mail amccullough@usouthal.edu Visit our Website: www.usamci.com/specialevents