Cancer Center News by Upstate Medical University

UPSTATE CANCER CENTER

NEWS SPRING

2013

Heart and Soul Ceremony sees final beams lifted into place Thousands of Central New Yorkers touched by cancer signed the final two beams of the new Upstate Cancer Center, which were lifted into their places at the top of the building in a ceremony in March. See Associate Administrator Dick Kilburg’s account and photos of the event on pages 2 and 3.

Lung cancer screening: $235 for peace of mind Hogle follows CT technician Dave Barnwell to the doughnut-shaped machine, where she reclines on a table. Her head lay on a pillow, her legs rest across another. Then she reaches her arms up and over her head so that her elbows are in the air, and the machine can get a clear shot of her lungs. The table moves the patient into the doughnut “hole” for the scan.

Maureen Hogle ended a 41-year habit when she quit smoking five years ago. “What always goes through your mind, when you’re eventually able to quit is, ‘I’m never going to know if there’s something wrong with my lungs until I get symptoms,’ ” says Hogle, 61. Then she read about a new lung cancer screening service offered at Upstate for smokers and former smokers. With her partner recovering from treatment for breast cancer, Hogle was anxious to do whatever she could to be proactive about her health, even if it meant paying $235 for the scan, which is not covered by health insurers. New federal guidelines that President Obama signed early this year require a comprehensive plan of research action for “high mortality cancers” including lung cancer, which has a 5-year survival rate of 15 percent. The Lung Cancer Alliance supports the legislation, and lung cancer screening. “Our mission is to cut lung

Maureen Hogle breathed a sigh of relief over her lung cancer screening results. Her partner, Aida Caputo, is a breast cancer survivor. cancer mortality in half by the end of the decade,” says Laurie Fenton-Ambrose, alliance president and CEO. So one recent Monday evening, Hogel arrived at 550 Harrison St. for a specialized computerized tomography scan that would detect tiny spots or nodules on her lungs years before they would ever show up on a regular chest x-ray.

The scanner takes 64 image slices, one every 1¼ millimeters from the base to the top of her torso. This is accomplished with lowdose radiation, the equivalent of about 1/3 the radiation for a regular CT scan, Barnwell explains. And it takes about 5 seconds. The CT scanner speaks in a computer voice: “Breathe in…Hold your breath.” Then, “Breathe.” This happens twice while the machine calibrates. The third time, the images are captured. Then Barnwell spends a couple minutes transferring everything to a CD that the patient will keep. Dedicated chest radiologists review the images. Patients receive phone calls with

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Syracuse New York

Welcome Cancer Center

From the Medical Director Cancer is a multi-faceted disease. Many patients need more than one modality of treatment, and Leslie J. Kohman MD every patient has individual needs and requirements in the management of his or her disease.

gastrointestinal medicine, nuclear medicine and interventional radiology.

Diagnosis, evaluation and treatment planning, therefore, require a multidisciplinary approach.

Currently, patients in our Thoracic Oncology (lung cancer), Breast Cancer, and Thyroid Cancer programs can meet with several specialists on the same day. Other programs -- including prostate cancer, liver and related cancers, head and neck cancer, colorectal cancer and brain tumor -- may not see patients all at the same time, but patients are discussed at a conference with all specialists present.

Each patient with a new cancer diagnosis deserves input from all specialties and support services related to his or her cancer. These may include medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgery, radiology, pathology and medical specialties such as pulmonary medicine,

Patients at the Upstate Cancer Center have the benefit of close cooperation among all these specialists, who work as teams devoted to each type of cancer. This approach will be expanded in the new Upstate Cancer Center building, which has a clinical area devoted to multi-disciplinary practice.

Social workers, case managers and other specialists such as dieticians, speech and swallowing therapists, spiritual care advisers, palliative care and pain management specialists will be incorporated into the care team as these programs develop and expand. This results in optimal care, individualized for each patient. When our new building opens, every patient will have a nurse-navigator whom the patient can contact with questions at any time. We also hope to develop telemedicine and teleconference capabilities so patients at more remote sites can benefit from this comprehensive, individualized approach to care. Leslie J. Kohman, MD Medical Director Upstate Cancer Center n

From the Associate Administrator A ceremony was held in the Upstate University Hospital lobby on Feb. 5 to celebrate the Richard J. Kilburg, MBA last piece of steel that would eventually be placed for all to see on the Upstate Cancer Center. Kicking off the event were Upstate President David Smith, MD; University Hospital CEO John McCabe, MD; Cancer Center Medical Director Leslie Kohman, MD; and Cancer Center Campaign Co-Chair and Syracuse University Head Coach Jim Boeheim and his wife Juli, Upstate Foundation board member. Several pediatric cancer patients and adult survivors were present to sign the beam. The ceremony was phenomenal. In addition, the beam -- 23 feet in length and weighing 600 pounds -- remained in the lobby during the month of February

for all who have been touched by cancer to sign. Permanent markers were made available in a rainbow of colors representing various types of cancer. No one could have predicted the overall impact the display of the final beam would have on cancer survivors, cancer patients and their loved ones. After two days on display, the beam had to be turned over because it was so full of names. People were crying as they signed. Others were kneeling, praying, and so thankful for the opportunity to sign the beam. Families were taking their picture together while signing the beam. Word spread quickly via Facebook, Twitter, and blogs. Within a week, the entire beam was filled from top to bottom with well over 1,000 names, and still people squeezed letters into every nook and cranny, anywhere a small white space existed. A second beam had to be delivered to give more people an opportunity to sign,

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and it was displayed into March. The Rev. Terry Culbertson remarked at the sense of spirituality of this signing opportunity. It is clear that those touched by cancer have poured their hearts and souls into the names and notes they’ve inscribed on these pieces of steel. The names on these beams will be immortalized in the building, a permanent part of the structure. These beams, when erected in place, will symbolize the “heart and soul” of the Cancer Center. A placement ceremony was held on March 27 to watch the “heart and soul” of the Upstate Cancer Center be installed. The ceremony was dedicated to all people touched by cancer, and the main speakers were cancer survivors. The Cancer Center is slated to open in spring 2014. Richard J. Kilburg, MBA Associate Administrator Upstate Cancer Center n

Spring 2013

welcome Cancer Center

Heart and Soul Ceremony We invite you to “like” the Upstate Cancer Center on Facebook, where photos like these first appeared. Once the building is complete, the beams – signed by thousands of people touched by cancer -- will still be visible from the roof.

Participating in the beam placement ceremony in March were cancer survivor Connor Licamele, (above) and Zach Ellingson, 11 (far right at podium)

They were joined by Neil Falcone, Lynn Conroy, Jen DeWoerth, Victoria Jellie, Tracy Licamele and Brian Licamele (center photo). Read about the Heart and Soul Beam Placement Ceremony on page 2.

Newsletter Staff: Leslie Kohman MD, Medical Director Richard Kilburg MBA Associate Administrator Jeanmarie Glasser FACHE Assistant Director 315-464-5925, glasserj@upstate.edu

Linda Veit, Project Manager 315-464-6303, veitl@upstate.edu

Upstate Medical University Marketing and University Communications

Heidi Chapman, Staff Assistant 315-464-6065, chapmanh@upstate.edu

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Design and Editorial Support 315-464-4836

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academic difference Cancer Center

Drug trial looks to extend lives of people with advanced kidney cancer Chemotherapy used to be the only option for people with advanced kidney cancer, the chemicals attacking the cancer cells along with the body’s healthy cells. A more Gennady Bratslavsky, MD targeted therapy was designed to zero in on the cancer cells, but its long-term results are not great. “It was an improvement over chemotherapy, but it certainly had its own limitations,” says Gennady Bratslavsky, MD, who chairs Upstate’s Urology Department and directs the Prostate Cancer Program. He leads a trial at Upstate that offers patients a vaccine made just for them, designed to enlist their bodies’ immune systems in the cancer fight. “The theory is that if we were to train the body’s own cells, we could get a much more effective killing of the cancer cells,” he says. Bratslavsky’s trial is part of an international, multi-institutional study of patients with metastatic kidney cancer, or kidney cancer that has spread beyond the kidney. Patients who join the trial will undergo surgery, have their tumors analyzed, and then be placed in one of two groups. Both groups of patients will receive state-of-the-art therapy, and one group will also receive this new vaccine. Upstate is one of the first sites in the United States to offer this trial, along with the hope it provides for the patients. Learn more by calling Upstate Urology at 315-464-1500. n

Study searches for biomarkers that could identify colorectal cancer Colonoscopy has the undisputed ability to nip cancer in the bud, but many people find the screening unpleasant. Someday, maybe colonoscopy will be replaced by a simple blood or urine test. A National Cancer Institute study underway at Upstate is looking for biological markers or biomarkers that signal the develJiri Bem, MD opment of colorectal cancer the way pregnancy hormones signal a baby is growing. Leading the study are associate professors of surgery, Jiri Bem, MD, and David Halleran, MD, both of whom are colorectal surgeons. The concept of using biomarkers to detect cancer is not new, but it is a hot topic among cancer researchers who are examining the potential of both protein and molecular biomarkers. The PSA test is already in use, to measure levels of prostate specific antigen in men with prostate cancer, and something similar is used to check for ovarian cancer recurrence in women. What’s new with this study being done at Upstate is the search for something in the blood or urine of a healthy person that could be used to reveal the presence of colorectal cancer before symptoms become apparent. Bem says the potential is exciting, but this study is just the beginning. “This is going to be another small step toward that goal. It’s going to take probably several years before we

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know what we’ve achieved and where else we need to focus,” he says. The data collected in Syracuse will be included with data from about 5,850 other people in the United States. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men and women combined. It has about a 50 percent mortality rate, which would be David R Halleran, MD reduced if more people were screened regularly. The recommendation is every 10 years starting at age 50 for people with average risk. Experts believe 40 percent of people who should be screened, are not. “Physicians can intervene and actually prevent the progression to a cancer,” Halleran explains. Colorectal cancers begin as benign growths called polyps. Finding polyps and removing them prevents the cancer, he says. That means undergoing colonoscopy, in which a long, thin tube is inserted through the rectum and into the colon so the doctor can visualize the inside of the large intestine. Any polyps found can be removed at the same time. “Colonoscopy gives physicians the chance to be therapeutic as well as diagnostic.” To joiN ThE STUdy Researchers from Upstate seek at least 100 Central New Yorkers to be involved in a study of biomarkers that may signal colorectal cancer. Participants will be asked for stool, urine and

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Spring 2013

academic difference Cancer Center

Upstate expands breast care services to two locations Providers working in Upstate University Hospital’s Breast Care Program demonstrate a firm commitment to offer patients every significant advantage in their battle against breast disease. The services available at Upstate include genetics evaluation and management services, a wellorganized process for evaluating patients for clinical trials and a significant monitoring system to ensure that patients are appropriately followed through their treatment plans.

reach, research and quality. “The accreditation reflects the depth of services and quality of care that Upstate’s breast program provides its patients,” said associate administrator Richard Kilburg. “This recognition is a testament to the physicians, nurses and other staff members who are dedicated to ensuring patients get the very best care based on the latest medical knowledge.”

This is what inspectors from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers found recently when they visited Syracuse and awarded a three-year full accreditation to Upstate’s Breast Care Program, directed by Sheila Lemke, MD. The NAPBC is a program administered by the American College of Surgeons.

Breast care services are offered at two locations: at Upstate’s Downtown Campus at 550 Harrison St., Syracuse and on the Community Campus at 4900 Broad Road, Syracuse. Practitioners see about 10,000 patient visits per year and offers an array of services that include radiologic imaging, lymphedema treatment, lactation assistance and surgery, as well as specialized programs for breast cancer and benign breast disease.

Upstate achieved compliance in all 27 areas of review by the group, reflecting excellence in diagnostic imaging, radiation oncology, nursing, support and rehabilitation, reconstructive surgery, community out-

At the Downtown Campus, the Women’s Imaging Center is adjacent to the Breast Care and Endocrine Surgery Center, named in honor of Upstate’s pioneering female surgeon, Patricia J. Numann, MD.

LU N G C A N C E R S C R E E N I N G – results a few days later, and their doctors receive letters with the results. And, if anything worrisome is noticed, patients can be referred to Upstate’s multidisciplinary Thoracic Oncology Program. Since Upstate began offering this program in the fall, about 35 smokers and former smokers have been screened. None have had cancer, but one person had a lung infection they did not know about -- and

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be between 60 and 80 years of age,

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have no symptoms of colorectal cancer,

Among the providers in the downtown center are Jayne Charlamb, MD, Kara Kort-Glowaki, MD, and nurse practitioners Patricia Brady, Lisa Cico and Tammy Root. Call 315-464-8224 for appointments. At the Community Campus, Breast Care Center surgeons Mary Ellen Greco, MD, and Kristine Keeney, MD, treat a wide range of breast conditions, from cancer to fibrocystic breast disease, and will see any patients with a suspicious lump within 48 hours. Call 315-492-5660. The office is conveniently located next to Wellspring’s imaging center. Imaging services at both locations include breast imaging, general diagnostic imaging, bone mineral density studies and breast, obstetrics, gynecological and general ultrasounds. The physician team includes Deepa Masrani, MD, the director of women’s imaging, Ravi Adhikary, MD, Beverly Spirt, MD and Katherine Willer, MD. n

Appointment Details

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Hogel learned of a hiatal hernia.

Low-dose CT scans to screen for lung cancer are done after 5 p.m. Mondays in offices at 550 Harrison St. Parking is free. Scans cost $235. They are for smokers between the ages of 55 and 74 or former smokers who quit within the past 15 years and who have a smoking history of at least 30 pack years. Call 464-6303 for information, or 464-8668 for an appointment.

For years she suffered what she assumed to be indigestion. The scan revealed the hernia, which was easily repaired through surgery. It’s a side benefit of her undergoing the lung cancer screening. She’s glad it has been repaired, of course, but she’s grateful for her peace of mind. n

See related story on page 9.

S T U DY S E A RC H E S F O R B I O M A R K E R S – blood samples before undergoing colonoscopy. To be involved, a participant must:

Patients who need services from both centers will appreciate not having to travel between the two.

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have no history of colorectal surgery, and

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have no cancer within the last five years.

Call Upstate Connect: 315-464-8668 for details.

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The Salt City Road Warriors generously donated funds to provide parking to participants and pay for some promotional expenses for this important study. n

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Award-winning C are Cancer Center

Upstate’s new imaging option: 3D mammography Looking for breast tumors on a regular mammogram “is like trying to see a snowman in a blizzard,” describes Kerry Greene-Donnelly, assistant professor in medical imaging sciences at Upstate Medical University. Dense breast tissue appears white, and so do breast cancers.

screening mammograms reveal dense breast tissue are receiving letters telling them it may, under a new law that took effect this year requiring mammography centers to send the letters.

About 40 percent of women have heterogeneously dense breasts, and 10 percent have extremely A new type dense breasts, of threeaccording to the dimensional American College mammography of Radiology. called That means tomosynthesis -about half of now available at Deepa M Masrani, MD the women Upstate’s who undergo Women’s Imagscreening mammograms in New York ing Center at 550 Harrison St. -- is said to provide a clearer image and help radiolo- should expect to receive letters. gists locate smaller cancers at earlier For some women with dense breasts, stages. Done like a regular mammogram, annual screening mammography may the 3D option provides 15 image slices be adequate. Some who have relatives more like those from a computerized with cancer may be directed to tomography scan. ultrasound after the mammogram. And some may need imaging by The technology is designed to reduce magnetic resonance after the a woman’s anxiety and reduce the mammogram. “There’s no perfect number of women who have to formula,” says Greene-Donnelly, undergo repeated mammograms. It explaining that physicians have to may appeal especially to women with consider a woman’s lifetime risk, and dense breast tissue, since dense breast the density of her breasts to decide tissue makes cancers more difficult to what to recommend. find on a regular mammogram. Experts don’t all agree that dense breast tissue increases a woman’s risk of breast cancer, but women in New York whose

For assistance making a mammography appointment, call 315-464-8668. n

Welcome to our new staff REgioNAl oNCology CENTER

RAdiATioN oNCology

Jessica Tuzzolino, Nurse Practitioner

Coleen Regan, RN

Wendy Barry, CRA, Clinical research associate

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Bone Marrow Transplant unit reduces infection rate, improves patient care By Bonnie Chapman Two abstracts were accepted to be presented as posters at the Oncology Nursing Society annual conference in April 2013. The abstracts were each written about ongoing quality initiatives at Upstate’s Bone Marrow Transplant unit. The first highlighted initiative is to offer patients the option to use antibacterial cleaning products when they bathe. Studies have shown that regular antibacterial washes reduce the likelihood of patients’ developing central line associated blood stream infections. A skin assessment was also completed daily on each patient to ensure that the wash was not too hard on the skin. This initiative resulted in a reduction in blood stream infections, and patients’ skin was not adversely affected. The second quality project involved using a clinical measurement to determine if it is appropriate to remove a central line if a patient was found to have a blood stream infection. Quite often it is assumed that the line is the cause of the infection, and it is removed. However, if the line doesn’t have to be removed, it saves the patient from an extra invasive procedure. Research has suggested that only 20 percent of lines that are removed actually need to be removed. Using the clinical measurement, the Bone Marrow Transplant unit has been able to determine which lines ought to remain and has therefore been able to improve patient care. Bonnie Chapman is Director of Quality for the Upstate Cancer Center. n

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Award-Winning C are Cancer Center

Upstate nurse and doctor shave their heads for pediatric cancer research Aiyana, 4, of Oswego, was diagnosed with a brain tumor called pilocytic astrocytoma in May 2012. Her left eye is partially closed due to the condition. When this photo was taken, she was in the outpatient clinic for her weekly infusion of IV chemotherapy, part of a 60-week-long regimen. Aiyana has undergone two surgeries, one performed just days after diagnosis. Aiyana’s Upstate health care team includes pediatric neurosurgeon Zulma TovarSpinoza MD, neuro-opthalmologist Melissa Ko MD, pediatric oncologist Gloria Kennedy MD and nurse practitioner Diane Groth NP.

Upstate’s Tracy Kalinowski RN and Jody Sima MD '02 raised $7,000 for pediatric cancer research by having their heads shaved at the March 3 St. Baldrick’s fundraiser at Kitty Hoynes Irish pub in Syracuse. Both are on the staff at the Waters Center for Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders at the Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital in Syracuse.

“I shaved my head to show our patients and their families that I support them and that beauty Tracy Kalinowski, RN (center) and Jody Sima, MD (right) are pictured with one of comes from within. Hair is the 700 patients of Upstate’s Waters Center for Children’s Cancer and Blood just an accessory,” says Disorders who inspired them to shave their heads. Kalinowski. “The kids are the brave ones. I just want Sima described the day she showed up at to do whatever I can to help find a cure. the hospital with no hair: a little girl, bald Since 2005, Upstate Medical University has received more than $350,000 from the St. I’ll shave my head again next year, and from chemotherapy, pulled off her hat Baldrick's Foundation to help pay for reso will my sons. It was an amazing and and said, “Hey, Doctor Jody, you look like search and enroll children in clinical trials. n humbling experience.” me now!’”

Library to offer satellite in Cancer Center assistance with research, as well as borrow other materials for entertainment.

The resource center in the future Cancer Center will be the second Health Sciences Library extension in a clinical setting at Upstate. The Family Resource Center in the Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital was the first and at 3 years old has proven to be an excellent resource for the patients, their caregivers, clinicians and staff. The Family Resource Center provides a variety of supports for all, including a quiet place to read a magazine, a comfortable space to read aloud or check out books for bedtime, a place to research health information or get

The new resource center will focus on providing resources and services specific to cancer patients and their caregivers, as well as supporting programming provided through organizations such as the American Cancer Society and others. Clare Rauch, a clinical reference librarian for the HSL, is charged with establishing the new library resource center. She has worked extensively at the Family Resource Center, briefly as the interim director, and witnessed firsthand the benefit of a library within a clinical setting.

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“I am very excited about the services we will be able to offer patients and their families in the new resource center. It is extremely gratifying to be a part of this new service to the community,” she says. All the Upstate Health Sciences Library resources and services are available while the Cancer Center is under construction. Consult with a medical librarian for help with access to ebooks, online databases, and health information. Please visit the library in person or online at library.upstate.edu or contact us at 464-4581 or library@upstate.edu n

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award-winning care Cancer Center

Congratulations These physicians achieved board certification or re-certification in Hospice and Palliative Care Medicine:

award to advance his research into a group of blood cancers known as myeloproliferative neoplasms.

Jeanne Bishop, MD, Medicine; Sharon Brangman, MD, Medicine; Ajeet Gajra, MD, Medicine; Barbara Krenzer, MD, Medicine; Sheila Lemke, MD, Medicine; Suman Swarnkar, MD, Medicine, previously certified; Jonathan Wright, MD, Medicine; Bhuvaneswari Ramkumar, MD, Fellow in Medical Oncology; Leslie Kohman, MD, Surgery; Mitch Karmel, MD, Radiology; Irene Cherrick, MD, Pediatrics.

Pediatric oncology nurses John Breault, RN and Molly Napier, RN are this year’s recipients of the W. Scott Carter Award. The award --a tribute to W. Scott Carter, who died unexpectedly on Jan. 1, 1999 – goes to the member of the nursing staff who best demonstrates the qualities exemplified by Scott: compassionate concern for the welfare of children, excellence in the technical aspects of nursing and the ability to touch others with an infectious joy of life.

Irene Cherrick, MD is one of this year's recipients of the Gold Standard Award, which recognizes faculty who have demonstrated dedication, passion, vision and commitment to their work and to Upstate. Golam Mohi, PhD, will receive a $549,783 scholar award from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The award takes effect July 1 and lasts for five years. Mohi will use the

The Breast Cancer Program was the recipient of the outpatient satisfaction champion trophy for the third quarter. The Breast Cancer Program had the highest outpatient satisfaction score (100) for healthcare providers’ efforts

to include patients in the decisions regarding treatment. These inpatient and outpatient oncology areas were recognized recently for having achieved an overall patient satisfaction score of 90 or above in 2012: Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology (90.3), Breast Cancer Program (91.1), Breast Care Center (91.0), and Gamma Knife (98.1) The 11G team was rated in the 99th percentile in nursing care for four consecutive months. You can’t get better than that! Also, 11G reached the 365-day mark on Dec. 28, 2012 for no Health Care Acquired-Central Line Associated Blood Stream Infections. As members of the Children’s Hospital Association, 11G participates in a process improvement program that has helped prevent eight deaths and 66 infections, and resulted in a costsavings of $2.3 million. Upstate’s Regional Oncology Center Stars program was created to increase staff morale. Lynn Siriswasdi and Jenna Schultz were recently recognized as ROC Stars for their hard work and always putting Patients First! n

Kudos from our patients These employees were recognized by name in recent patient satisfaction surveys:

These exerpts come from patients who completed patient satisfaction surveys:

Eleanor Abel, PA; Jessica Armstrong; Patricia Brady, NP; Jayne Charlamb, MD; Lisa Cico, NP; Michele Fehlman; Ajeet Gajra, MD; Simeon Garvin; Theresa Gentile, MD, PhD; Julie Grimsley, RN; Seung Shin Hahn, MD; Roseann Izquierdo; Meaghan Kazmirski; Shari Kelley, NP; Haider Khadim, MBBS; Kara Kort-Glowaki, MD; Sheila Lemke, MD; Dena Martin, clinical research coordinator; Dr. Veeral Patel; Bernard Poiesz, MD; Michael Poiesz, MD; Robin Salvaterra, RN; Darlene SchickWaller, RN; Rahul Seth, DO; Kathryn Spinek, RN; Ibrahim Thabet, NP; Jonathan Wright, MD; Elizabeth Ziolkowski, RN.

“Am always pleased by the friendliness and professionalism by all the staff and the doctor. Office, waiting room, exam area, and bathroom are ALWAYS clean and peaceful. Very pleasant!” “While every single person was wonderful, my nurse Barb was kind, compassionate, engaged and funny. She, and everyone else, made me feel so comfortable.” “Dr. Jonathan Wright is wonderful. I do cry a lot and he talks to me like I am the only one he is treating. Dr. Wright is an angel to me.”

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f o u n d at i on f or u p s tat e Cancer Center

Grateful patient hosted awareness reception Fayetteville resident Sally Attridge passed away recently, succumbing finally to cancer which had challenged her for the last 13 years. She had determinedly beat bout after bout with the disease, feeling victorious each time she went into remission. The following is the story she wished to share prior to her death.

Owing to her excellent health, her internist would not give her a prescription for a chest X-ray during her annual physical in 2000, saying it was not covered by her insurance company. Later that week, Attridge saw an ad in the local newspaper seeking volunteers to

Sally Attridge was so grateful for the cancer care she received at Upstate that when she heard that the Foundation for Upstate needed support of its campaign to build the Upstate Cancer Center, she offered to host an awareness reception so that she could share her experiences with family members and friends. She invited one of her doctors, Leslie Kohman, MD, to tell about the new Cancer Center.

to detect lung cancer. She had an initial scan that revealed nothing. Then three months later, scans confirmed two malignant tumors, which were not alike and had metastasized into her lymph nodes. So Attridge’s journey with Upstate’s cancer care team began. In 2007, a routine colonoscopy revealed two malignant tumors that were not alike, and not like the tumors in her lung. The following year, two more tumors were detected, one in each lung. These, also, were not like the first two. In 2011, a biopsy determined yet another tumor unlike the previous ones.

Attridge once again came under the care of her cancer doctors earlier this year. This is what she had to say about her team: “The really striking thing to me is that with all the Sally Attridge, center, with her friends Kathy Considine and Reggie Finlay. high-tech advancements in cancer treatment – which have not been sacrificed at the ROC (Regional Oncology Attridge’s story relative to cancer participate in a research study at Upstate Center) – cancer affects people emotionbegan 13 years ago, a year after she quit called “The Early Lung Cancer Action ally as well as physically. Treatment is not smoking. She was 69 and in good health Study,” which led to Upstate’s Lung only about technology. It’s about the despite being a smoker for 50 years. Cancer Screening Program, profiled in personal, caring relationships with the “I did not have anything medically wrong our cover story. She qualified for the patient and the attention to their every with me. I didn’t take pills for anything; study, which utilized computerized concern. And in this regard, they all get I didn’t even take vitamins or a calcium tomography scans rather than X-rays an A plus, plus, plus.” n supplement,” she said.

World Cancer Day dispels damaging myths about the disease MyTh 3:

Caregivers from Upstate joined with the Commission on Cancer on Feb. 4, World Cancer Day, to help dispel damaging myths and misconceptions about the disease — starting with these four:

CANCER iS A dEATh SENTENCE.

MyTh 1:

MyTh 2:

CANCER iS jUST A hEAlTh iSSUE.

CANCER iS A diSEASE of ThE wEAlThy, EldERly ANd dEvEloPEd CoUNTRiES.

Truth: Many cancers that were once considered a death sentence can now be cured and for many more people their cancer can now be treated effectively.

Truth: Cancer is not just a health issue. It has wide-reaching social, economic, development, and human rights implications.

Truth: Cancer does not discriminate. It is a global epidemic, affecting all ages, with low- and middle-income countries bearing a disproportionate burden.

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MyTh 4: CANCER iS My fATE. Truth: With the right strategies, more than one in every three cancers can be prevented.

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f o u n d at i on f or u p s tat e Cancer Center

Roses for Breast Cancer: Stuck for a Cure The Foundation for Upstate Medical University works with many members of the Central New York community who use their time, talent and money to raise funds for a cause for which they are passionate. Some of the initiatives are quite unique, such as the one conducted by Danielle Delfanian of Liverpool to raise money for the Upstate Cancer Center. Calling her campaign “Roses for Breast Cancer,” Delfanian designs lovely creations—such as coin purses, bracelets, wristlets, hair clips and apparel—with duct tape. She says that she may be the only person in Upstate New York with more than 500 rolls of duct tape in her basement.

A family member who is a breast cancer survivor inspired Delfanian, who combined this inspiration with her passion for roses and a roll of duct tape. She creates the products herself, although she credits “some amazing friends who have also helped me prepare petals for roses, pieces for bracelets and rosettes, zippers for the bags, etc. The prep work takes the most time and I am very thankful to have people who are able to help me when it is needed.” For her efforts, Roses for Breast Cancer will be permanently recognized for its

support of the Foundation’s “Give Hope a New Home” capital campaign in the Upstate Cancer Center’s rooftop healing garden. Delfanian said, “Until we hear the words, ‘There is a cure for breast cancer,’ I will be duct taping and sticking it to breast cancer the best way I know how.” n

Variety of groups, individuals make donations The Upstate Medical University Foundation, Upstate Council, faculty, medical staff, other employees, Upstate Advocates, volunteers and Foundation board members of Upstate Medical University (“The Upstate Family”) have contributed more than $3.97 million to the Cancer Center Capital Campaign. Generous individual donors have contributed more than $5.1 million. Corporations and foundations have contributed more than $1.75 million. Examples of some of the major corporate and organizational supporters with pledges of $30,000 or more include Advocates for Upstate Medical University, Bart-Rich, Carroll’s Corporation, CNY Infusion Services, COR Development Co., Eastern States Hyundai, Greater Syracuse Realtors/Mortgage Bankers/Home Builders, Hancock & Estabrook,

Harrison Center Associates, Hotel Skyler, Key Bank, M&T Bank, McLane Northeast Grocery Distributors, PPC, Price Chopper Supermarkets, SEFCU, Sutton Real Estate Company, TOPS Markets, Upstate Department of Neurosurgery, Upstate Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Upstate Department of Pathology, Upstate Department of Radiation Oncology and Woodbine Group. Examples of some of the major foundation and association supporters with gifts or pledges of $30,000 or more include Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research Fund of CNY, Golub Foundation, Hope for Heather, Horwood C. & Alene S. Jones Foundation, Jewish Community Foundation of CNY, Kinney Drugs Foundation, Kiwanis Club Ontario Division, Lockheed Martin Employees Federated Fund, Lukie’s Soul Foundation, Paige’s Butterfly Run, Inc., Salt City Road Warriors,

10 U p s t a t e c a n c e r C e n t e r N e w s

Syracuse University Sport Management Club, The Jim and Juli Boeheim Foundation, The Saint Agatha Foundation, Upstate Medical University Foundation, Walmart Foundation and Wegman Family Charitable Foundation. The central New York community at large has contributed more than $2.5 million. These community gifts include 1,193 tribute gifts and 111 grateful patient gifts. Revenue has also come from community fundraisers such as golf tournaments, walk/runs, auctions, sporting events and bowling tournaments. The campaign is currently at $14.2 million. For more information about the campaign or how you can be involved, please contact us: 315-464-4416. n

Spring 2013

f o u n d at i on f or u p s tat e Cancer Center

Donor Spotlight:

greater Syracuse Association of REAlToRS and CNy Mortgage Bankers Association

The Greater Syracuse Association of REALTORS and CNY Mortgage Bankers Association made a generous $30,000 multi-year pledge naming the integrative therapy room at the Upstate Cancer Center. The integrative therapy room will offer a comforting space for outpatients undergoing cancer treatment who consult an integrative medicine specialist or request mind-body therapies. It will feature a soothing color scheme, music, aromatherapy and a massage table. Patients can take full advantage of integrative therapy services aimed at comforting and supporting them throughout their cancer journey – from diagnosis through treatment and survivorship. n

Pictured from left are Terry Toscano Shenfeld, Upstate Foundation; Lynnore Fetyko, CEO, Greater Syracuse Association of Realtors; and Stacy Dorn, secretary, and Andy Doherty, treasurer, of the CNY Mortgage Bankers Association.

Make plans for this year’s Erie Canal Ride May 17 & 18 extensive back surgery. Her surgeon and friend, Richard Tallarico, MD, assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Upstate, has participated as a cyclist in all four rides. The Erie Canal Ride has raised nearly $40,000 over the past four years to support pediatric services at Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital and the Upstate Cancer Center and recreation therapy at Upstate University Hospital.

For the fifth consecutive year, the Foundation for Upstate Medical University will be the beneficiary of proceeds when Pat Martin, a retired licensed practical nurse from North Syracuse, celebrates her 72nd birthday on the two-day, 72-mile Erie Canal Ride bicycle trek along the Old Erie Canal State Park Trail. On Friday May 17, cyclists will begin their journey at the historic Butternut Creek aqueduct in Dewitt and travel 36 miles to Erie Canal Village in Rome. The return trip to Dewitt will begin the following morning. Proceeds from the 2012 Erie Canal Ride totaled $8,800. Martin designated $7,300 for special amenities and staff “wish list” items for the infusion playroom at the Dr. William J. Waters Center for Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders in the new Upstate Cancer Center and $1,500 to the Physical

Dr. Richard Tallarico with organizer Pat Martin Medicine & Rehabilitation Recreation Therapy Fund that Martin established at the Foundation. This year’s ride proceeds will continue support in these two areas. Martin organized the first Erie Canal Ride in 2009 after a successful recovery from

Up s tat e C on n e ct

The Martin family is part of the Upstate family. Martin is a volunteer on Upstate University Hospital’s 2N Rehabilitation unit; her daughters, Debbie Tafel and Patty Martin, granddaughter Kristy Martin, and grandson Chris Tafel are all Upstate employees. For more information on the Erie Canal Ride contact Pat Martin, 315-455-1192 or email treesh1941@yahoo.com n

800-464-8668

J OI

SUNY Day Upstate Medical University highlighted the Cancer Center during SUNY Day in February in Albany. Legislators visited to learn about the services that will be contained within the building that is rising in front of Upstate University Hospital in downtown Syracuse.

A M AGI FOR CA S U L

Y DA

Events

Na t i o n a l C a n c e r

S u r v i v o r s D ay C e

lebrat

Na t i o n

ion

Feel free to dress as your favorite animated character. There will be a prize for the best costume!

Sun

Sunday, June 2 • 12 - 3:30 pm Check-in time: 11:30 am

Holiday Inn Electronics Parkway, Liverpool, NY

Holid Elect

Cancer survivors of all ages are invited to A Celebration of Life. This event is free for cancer survivors and their guests. Seating is limited and reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cance A Cele cance is lim on a fi

RSVP by calling Upstate Connect at 464-8668 or 800-464-8668 by May 25.

RSVP 464-8

M U S IC

•

L UNCH

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DO O R P RI Z E S

To help ensure the future of NCSD or to support the Upstate Cancer Center please mail your donation to: Upstate Medical University Foundation, 326 CAB, 750 East Adams Street, Syracuse, NY 13210. Make checks payable to: National Cancer Survivors Day Fund or the Upstate Cancer Center.

To help Upstate Upstate 750 Eas checks Fund o

Sponsor:

Spons

1 Photo 1: Among those who stopped at the Upstate booth were Karen Moore, from Public Relations at ESF; Maureen Fellows, from Government Relations at ESF; Stephanie DeJoseph from Upstate's Marketing and Communications department; Chairman of the SUNY Board of Trustees H. Carl McCall, former state comptroller; Linda Veit, project manager for the Upstate Cancer Center; and Clair Dunn,Communications Director at ESF.

Save The Dates! May 11 Carol M. Baldwin A Night to Remember Annual Gala

May 18 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure®

May 19 Miracle Motorcycle Ride & BBQ*

June 2

National Cancer Survivor’s Day Celebration*

June 8 17th Annual Paige’s Butterfly Run

Photo 2: New York Senator Kenneth P. LaValle, R-Port Jefferson, chairman of the Senate Higher Education Committee (second from right) with Upstate President David Smith, MD (left), Veit and DeJoseph.

June 14 American Cancer Society Relay for Life

July 20 11th Annual Lukie’s Holes for Hope Golf Open*

July 20

In photo 3, Smith is joined by SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher PhD.

Carol M. Baldwin “Gillie Girls” Triathlon

Aug. 25

13.125 313 21.4mEL DC

Ride for Cancer Care*

www.upstate.edu Cancer Center

750 East Adams Street l Syracuse, NY 13210

Knowing changes everything.