Breast Cancer Support Group to meet

November 10, 2009 » Southern Ohio Medical Center’s Breast Cancer Support Group will meet on Wednesday, Nov. 18 at 1 p.m. at the SOMC Cancer Center, located on Kinneys Lane in Portsmouth.

Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to Lisa Morgan at 356-7496 no later than noon on Friday, Nov. 13 to get an accurate count for lunch.

Four Battles Then: Four Victories Now

How Four SOMC Employees Are Spreading Stories Of Hope

Pictured then (left) are Noel Pemberton, Norma White, Wendi Waugh and Carolyn McKinnon; pictured now (right) are McKinnon, White, Pemberton and Waugh.

October 13, 2009 » In 2006, four employees at Southern Ohio Medical Center embarked on what would be the hardest journey of their life: the battle against breast cancer.

Three years later, each woman is cancer free and sharing their stories to provide inspiration and encouragement for those following in their footsteps.

Norma’s Story:

Norma White, a purchasing analyst at the SOMC Cancer Center, first discovered a lump in her breast while at work. She let it go for week before visiting a doctor. “At 32 years old, and with no previous history of breast cancer, I didn’t think it was possible for me to have the disease,” she said. “I kept denying it, but finally realized it wasn’t worth putting off any longer—I needed to help myself get better.”

Within seven months of a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and multiple radiation treatments, Norma was officially declared cancer free. She now uses her experience to relate to first-time chemo patients, explaining that it may not be an easy road, but that they will see their old self again.

“Many cancer patients feel like they have to put their lives on hold, but they don’t,” she said. “I still exercised, went shopping and spent time with my family. My biggest goal was to put the treatments behind me and move on with my life. Now I can show my patients that it’s possible.”

Carolyn’s Story:

After a routine mammogram, 51-year-old Carolyn McKinnon was told that she had a lump in her breast. Four days later, she was undergoing surgery.

“It all happened so fast that I barely had time to think about it,” she said. “I was definitely scared, but I also always had hope.”

Within 10 months of a partial mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation treatments, Carolyn was cleared of cancer. She now uses her story to encourage others to not put off what they can do today.

“My experience made me realize that life is too short—you don’t get another time around,” she said. “I needed to accomplish all the things I said I wanted to do, but hadn’t; I have since gone back to school to become a nurse practitioner and I’m very happy with where I am in life.”

Wendi’s Story:

Wendi Waugh, director of the SOMC Cancer Center, was aware that there was a lump in her breast nearly five months before visiting her physician for an exam.

“I had an order for a mammogram, but held onto it because I hoped the lump would go away,” she said. “Unfortunately, I always knew in my heart that it wouldn’t disappear.”

A year and a half after her double mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation treatments, Wendi returned to her normal life without cancer. Her experience has helped her relate on a new level with her patients, creating a greater sense of compassion and understanding of their situations

“Breast cancer is a roller coaster ride: you don’t know where the loops are, but you can choose to experience the ride and learn from it,” she said. “I chose to learn and to take care of myself so that now I can take care of others.”

Noel’s Story:

As a registered mammographer and advocate of the monthly self-breast exam, Noel Pemberton understood what avenues to take after finding a pea-sized lump in her breast.

“I immediately went to my doctor and scheduled a mammogram,” she said. “From the first image, we knew that it was cancer.”

A double mastectomy, eight chemo treatments, 38 radiation sessions and six months later, Noel was in the clear. She now sits with patients during their hour-long bone scans and encourages them by sharing her story.

“What better place can we be to touch patients?” she said. “I have bonded with so many people by sharing my experience and have made friends that I never would have met otherwise. Being able to inspire others through my own story is an amazing feeling and I’m truly blessed.”

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Join the SOMC Cancer Center in celebrating by receiving your annual mammogram today and learning about the many ways that you can fight the disease. For more information or to schedule your appointment, please call (740) 356-7490 or visit them online at www.somccancer.org.

HDR Procedure Available for Gynecological Cancers

September 15, 2009 » Southern Ohio Medical Center now has the technology available to cut the treatment for gynecologic cancers down from days to hours. High Dose Rate Brachytherapy, currently being used at the SOMC Cancer Center in the treatment of some forms of breast and skin cancer, is now available to women with gynecological cancer and soon will be available for the treatment of lung cancer.

“In the past, women suffering from gynecological cancer would be subjected to at least three days stay in the hospital, lying flat on their back with no movement and no visitors due to the radiation emission in the room,” said Dr. Li-Fen Lien Chang, Senior Medical Director of Radiation Oncology Services. “This procedure will eliminate the lengthy, uncomfortable hospital stay and minimize the number of treatments.”

Brachytherapy is a form of internal radiation treatment where radioactive sources are placed on or into cancer tissue. High dose rate (HDR) is a technically advanced form of brachytherapy. A high intensity radiation source is delivered with millimeter precision under computer guidance directly into the tumor killing it from the inside out while avoiding injury to surrounding normal healthy tissue. In gynecological treatments, a vaginal cylinder or a tandem and ovoids are comfortably inserted directly inside the woman’s anatomy and are used to administer the radiation.

“Our team takes a CT scan of the patient prior to the treatment to help create a specialized treatment plan specific to that patient’s needs. The treatment takes approximately 30-90 minutes depending upon the size and complexity of the implant and the activity of the source,” she explained.

Chang said the procedure is outpatient and is more accurate in delivering treatment because it is so focused and allows for a much higher, very localized dose of exposure that is designed to kill the remaining cancer cells at the site.

“Because of the success with this procedure, we will be looking toward the use of HDR brachytherapy for the treatment of lung cancer,” she said.

For more information on this new technology, visit Southern Ohio Medical Center’s Cancer Center on the web at www.somc.org/cancer

Longaberger Consultant Presents Donation to SOMC

September 2, 2009 » Local Longaberger Branch Leader Dolores Schuman (right) recently presented SOMC Cancer Center staff members Kelly Lawson (left) and Kimberly Richendollar with a donation of more than $800. The contribution was collected by area Longaberger consultants during their Horizon of Hope luncheon and will go toward the hospital’s Breast Cancer Compassion Fund, which provides assistance to local breast cancer patients.

2009 River Days Contestant Raises Funds for SOMC

August 25, 2009 » 2009 Miss River Days Contestant Julie Seaman, a senior from Northwest High School, hosted a Carnival for a Cure to benefit cancer patients of Southern Ohio Medical Center June 27. Through the event, Seaman was able to create a greater awareness of breast cancer within the community, as well as raise donations for the SOMC Breast Cancer Compassion Fund. Shown at the donation presentation are (l to r) Kelly Lawson, clinical manager of SOMC Oncology Services, Julie Seaman and Kristie Meeker, assistant nurse manager of SOMC Oncology Services.

Girl Scouts Donate Blankets to SOMC Cancer Center

August 7, 2009 » Members of local Girl Scout troop 305 recently created and donated 16 blankets for the patients of the Cancer Center at Southern Ohio Medical Center. The troop’s service project will go toward their hours needed to receive the Girl Scout Silver Award later this year. Shown at the presentation with the troop members and leaders are SOMC Cancer Center staff members Traci Boland (left) and Eve Phipps (right).

Medical Oncologist Ungerleider Welcomed At SOMC

July 20, 2009 » James Ungerleider, MD, a physician specializing in medical oncology and hematology, has been welcomed to the medical staff of the Cancer Center at Southern Ohio Medical Center.

Dr. Ungerleider received his medical degree from The Ohio State University in Columbus, where he also completed his residency training and received a fellowship in Hematology and Oncology.

He previously worked as a medical oncologist at The Ohio State University James Cancer Clinic and most recently assisted Holzer Medical Center in developing their current medical oncology program. He is board certified in Internal Medicine and Medical Oncology.

Dr. Ungerleider will begin accepting patients Monday, July 27 at the SOMC Cancer Center, 1121 Kinneys Lane, Portsmouth. He can be reached by calling (740) 356-7490.

Breast reconstruction now available for breast cancer patients

July 2, 2009 » This year alone, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Each year, more than 250,000 women face the challenges associated with breast cancer. Those whose diagnosis is warranted are often faced with the choice of total breast removal (mastectomy) or partial breast tissue removal (lumpectomy). Southern Ohio Medical Center has surgery specialists who can provide breast reconstruction for those who opt for the procedure.

“Breast reconstruction is a surgery that rebuilds the breast, after a mastectomy or lumpectomy,” said Dr. Michael Stefan, M.D., plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Southern Ohio Medical Center. “Many women choose this procedure to maintain a balanced contour which aids in overall body image and builds self-esteem.”

Stefan explained that women always have a choice in the reconstruction process. Immediate reconstruction can take place at the time the mastectomy is performed which means one less surgery.

“We work together to perform a breast reconstruction,” said Vincent Scarpinato, M.D., senior medical director of the Surgery Department at Southern Ohio Medical Center. “I remove the breast tissue and Dr. Stefan conducts the reconstruct. This minimizes the procedures that the patient would have to go through and has been very successful.”

Dr. Stefan received his medical degree from the Medical College of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. He completed a residency in general surgery at Pennsylvania Hospital and a fellowship in plastic and reconstructive surgery from the University of Florida and aesthetic and breast surgery from Georgetown University. He is board certified in plastic surgery.

Dr. Scarpinato received his medical degree from New York Medical College where he also completed his residency in general and breast surgery. He is board certified in general surgery.

For more information contact SOMC Surgical Associates, 1735 27th St., Waller Building Suite 102, Portsmouth, OH 45662. Call (740) 353-3562.

SOMC Cancer Center Brings Disease Awareness to Local Students

June 9, 2009 » The Cancer Center at Southern Ohio Medical Center recently opened its doors to local students to bring a greater understanding and awareness of the disease, its treatments and its preventive measures to the youth of the community.

“Earlier this year, we sent letters to all area guidance counselors, inviting students to visit the center for a special one-on-one tour and day of learning,” Kelly Lawson, clinical manager of SOMC Oncology Services, said. “Multiple schools responded to the offer and so far we’ve probably conducted six tours to around 200 students.”

Alice Spriggs, third grade teacher at Northwest Elementary School, said she eagerly jumped on the invitation, noting that the tour was the perfect opportunity to give her students a better grasp of the disease.

“Last year we had a student who was diagnosed with cancer, and now-a-days there are so many with family members who are suffering from it,” she said. “My students wanted to know what they could do to help, which is why we wanted to visit the center and hear first-hand from the employees who work there everyday.” 

Lawson explained that during the tour, students are able to learn specifics about many different types of cancer and the therapies and treatments that may be associated which each.

“We try to gear the visit toward the group’s specific age so they can gain the most from the experience,” she said.

“For one eighth grade group, we talked a lot about lung cancer prevention and showed them X-rays of the disease in hopes of keeping them from smoking. With the younger kids, we focus on lighter, but relevant topics, like wearing sunscreen to prevent skin cancer and eating balanced diets and exercising to stay healthy.”

Students also have the chance to ask questions and learn answers to topics that may previously have seemed frightening, such as hair loss, length of hospitalization and painfulness of treatment.

“The visit really put things in a different perspective and was very worthwhile,” Spriggs said. “It also helped my students learn that, while cancer is a terrible disease, it does not always mean death and there are things that can be done to prevent it. We thank the Cancer Center for their kindness and enthusiasm and look forward to bringing students back next year.”

New Cancer Treatment Room at SOMC Shines With Images of Nature

April 29, 2009 » When you open the door to the high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy treatment room at Southern Ohio Medical Center, you might think you have stepped into a garden. The walls shine with the images of birds and butterflies, flowers and trees, blue sky with white clouds. There’s even a small structure that looks like a child’s playhouse.

The structure is actually a lead booth where patients receive one of the newest radiation treatments for cancer. The room itself is one of the most unique in the United States.

SOMC’s Cancer Center was the first facility in the country to utilize an HDR Tx Booth, a lead-lined unit which is placed inside a normal room and used for HDR radiation treatments. The concept is unique because the entire room does not have to be lead-lined, according to Wendi Waugh, R.T. (R)(T) CMD CTR, administrative director of the Cancer Center.

In HDR brachytherapy, a highly radioactive source is placed at the site of a patient’s cancer. This treatment is primarily used with breast, lung, skin and gynecological cancer patients. The source, which is no larger than a grain of rice, is left in the body five to 10 minutes. Because the treatment involves use of radioactive materials, the procedure must take place in a lead-lined location.

The room grew out of what Waugh termed a long-time need for HDR brachytherapy in the community. “We had one normal-sized lead-lined room but needed another one for the HDR brachytherapy treatments. We looked at building a second room but that was not making sense economically.”

At the same time Waugh was looking for a solution to her problem, Tom Rhea, a physicist with Advanced Physics Solutions in Franklin, Tn., was looking for a customer for a small lead booth he’d designed for HDR brachytherapy treatments.

The mural on the room’s wall and the painted booth add to the facility’s uniqueness, Waugh said.

“I’m being nice when I say it (the booth) looked like a building you’d put a lawnmower in,” Waugh added with a laugh. When the unit arrived at the Cancer Center, “It was a functional lead box. We have a beautiful center here and this did not meet our standards. We wanted a warm, comfortable, inviting area for our patients.”

Franklin Furnace Artist Keiva Jenkins  worked on the room and booth in stages over a 10-day period.

The booth, which weighs approximately 23,000 pounds, arrived in pieces in November 2008, and was assembled inside the treatment room. It’s about the size of a child’s playhouse with interior measurements of 7’4” long by 4’6” wide by 5’ high. The unit has interior lighting, piped-in music, a camera and intercom monitoring system and forced air ventilation.

“It’s inviting and it gives patients a calm, serene and open atmosphere during treatment,” said Waugh.

For more information on HDR Brachytherapy, visit Southern Ohio Medical Center’s Cancer Center on the web at www.somc.org/cancer.

Scioto Cancer Coalition Wins State Award

Sharon Carver, center, community health specialist at SOMC, accepts the Ohio Partners for Cancer Control (OPCC) Model Program Award. Presenting the award are Don McClure, left, and Jeff Lycan, right. McClure is co-chair of OPCC and CEO of the American Cancer Society, Ohio Division. Lycan is co-chair of OPCC and president of the Ohio Hospice and Palliative Care Organization.

March 10, 2009 » Scioto County’s Fight Cancer…Save Lives Coalition has won the Ohio Partners for Cancer Control (OPCC) Model Program Award for its 2008 “Take A Health Break” project.

The project focused on female employees at Wal-Mart’s New Boston store, providing them with information about cancer prevention including nutrition, physical activity and smoking cessation. Workers also were supplied with educational materials about community health programs and affordable breast cancer screening services for low-income and underinsured residents.

The educational sessions were conducted on-site at the store between May and August 2007. Participants were asked to complete a health assessment at the beginning of the project.

A comprehensive approach to cancer education has proven to be effective in reducing the risk of breast cancer as well as improve overall health, according to a spokesman for the OPCC, which selects the model program winners.

The Scioto program was one of six statewide recognized by OPCC. Model programs were selected based on their efforts in eight key areas: planning and systemic change, primary prevention, early detection, data and surveillance, treatment and care, research and clinical trials, palliation and quality of life and survivorship.

OPCC is a statewide coalition of cancer-related organizations.

Scarpinato Elected Cancer Liaison Physician by CoC, SOMC

January 30, 2009 » Vincent M. Scarpinato, MD, senior medical director of the Surgery Department at Southern Ohio Medical Center, has been elected to serve as Cancer Liaison Physician for the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) and the SOMC Cancer Committee.

During his three-year term as liaison, Dr. Scarpinato will bridge the gaps between the two committees, the American Cancer Society and the community, helping to identify and report the needs of the local area and improve the quality of care offered to the cancer patients of SOMC.

“Cancer Liaison Physicians are responsible for providing the leadership and direction to establish, maintain, and support their facility’s cancer program, consistent with the criteria set by the Commission on Cancer,” Wendi Waugh, director of Cancer Services at SOMC, said. “Dr. Scarpinato has been an exceptional link between the community and our hospital and I know he will continue to improve our efforts while serving in this role.”

In October 2008, the CoC granted SOMC Cancer Services with a three-year accreditation for its outstanding achievement and compliance with the commission’s standards. Out of the eight potential areas of commendation, SOMC Cancer Services received seven.

“Being accredited by such an outstanding and prestigious organization was a huge achievement for our Cancer Center and I am excited to increase our interaction with the CoC through this position,” Dr. Scarpinato said. “It’s both a pleasure and an honor to be chosen by these groups to serve our community and I look forward to working with them during the next three years.”

Board-certified in General Surgery, Dr. Scarpinato received his medical degree from New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY. He previously served as program director of the Department of Surgery as well as chief of Surgical Education at St. Vincent’s Hospital and Medical Center. He has been part of the surgical staff of SOMC for the last two years and has been practicing general and breast surgery for 17 years.

New HDR Technology at SOMC

December 5, 2008 » Southern Ohio Medical Center recently acquired new technology to speed the breast cancer treatment process. This new procedure is called MammoSite HDR (high dose rate) partial breast irradiation, it will reduce radiation therapy from six-seven weeks to five days.

Dr. Vincent Scarpinato, Senior Medical Director for the Department of Surgery was instrumental in bringing this new technique to SOMC.  The procedure begins with removal of the tumor from the patient, followed by the placement of a catheter (small tube) leading to where the cancer was removed. This device, the MammoSite balloon catheter, is used by the radiation oncologist a few days later for partial breast irradiation known as brachytherapy.

“With this procedure, the patient receives treatment from inside the cavity where the tumor was removed rather than with an external beam pointed from the outside,” Dr. Scarpinato explained. "This dramatically reduces the time and number of treatments necessary and most patients have their therapy completed in five days."

MammoSite partial-breast irradiation is a technique that delivers more focused radiation to a smaller area of breast tissue. The MammoSite device is a double channel balloon catheter consists of a silicon balloon and a 15 cm catheter.

The catheter on the MammoSite device attaches to a special machine called a High Dose Rate (HDR) machine. This machine inserts a tiny radioactive seed into the middle of the balloon, which delivers radiation only to the area around the balloon. After several minutes the seed is withdrawn. After the treatments are complete, the balloon is deflated and the MammoSite device is removed.

“This approach allows for a much higher, very localized dose of exposure that kills the remaining cancer cells at the site. Whereas previously the patient may chose mastectomy, complete removal of the breast, HDR brachytherapy offers an opportunity to have a lumpectomy and radiation therapy that preserves the breast,” said Dr. Li-Fen Lien Chang, Senior Medical Director of Radiation Oncology Services. “This procedure also lessons the time needed to receive radiation therapy. Patients can receive this treatment in five days rather than six to seven and half weeks.”

After the treatment, the oncologist can remove the catheter and the cavity will fill up naturally with body fluid.

Not all breast cancer patients are good candidates for MammoSite partial breast irradiation. Approximately 64 percent of breast cancer patients are potential candidates for the HDR approach. Five-year data is now available showing the procedure has comparable low recurrent rate compare to traditional external beam irradiation.

“Currently there are nationwide clinical trials to further define the best candidate for this technology. We exclude very young patients (<45 years old), very large tumors (>3 cm), positive lymph node metastasis, positive resection margin or when the balloon surface is too close to the skin (<7mm). If you are a breast cancer patient and are interested in MammoSite HDR brachytherapy, please contact SOMC Cancer Center for an appointment. We are so proud to bring this technology to the Greater Portsmouth area,” said Chang.