Cancer

The Sumas Family Foundation Donates $5,000 to Shore Cancer Center in Honor of Patient Care

JoeSMC2009 — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 12:18:39 +0000

The Sumas Family Foundation Donates $5,000 to Shore Cancer Center in Honor of Patient Care

August 8, 2025

JoeSMC2009 Fri, 08/08/2025 - 08:18

On July 24, Bob and Patricia Post, joined by representatives from Village Super Market—part of the Wakefern Cooperative that operates ShopRite stores throughout South Jersey, including the Rio Grande location in Cape May County—presented Shore Medical Center with a generous $5,000 donation from The Sumas Family Foundation, the charitable arm of Village Super Market, Inc., to support cancer care.

On July 24, members of Shore Cancer Center proudly accepted a generous $5,000 donation from The Sumas Family Foundation, the charitable arm of Village Super Market, Inc., a member of the Wakefern Cooperative that operates ShopRite stores in South Jersey, including Rio Grande in Cape May County. The gift was made through the foundation’s “You Care, We Give” initiative, a charitable program supported by the Sumas Family Foundation that empowers employees to nominate non-profit organizations meaningful to them for funding.

This donation was made possible thanks to Bob Post, a dedicated employee at the Rio Grande ShopRite, who nominated Shore Cancer Center in honor of the exceptional care his wife, Patricia Post, has received during her cancer treatment journey.

“I’ve seen firsthand the level of compassion and care that the Shore Cancer Center provides,” said Bob Post. “From the very first visit, the team here showed us incredible compassion and professionalism. The doctors and nurses didn’t just care for Patricia—they supported me too. They took the time to explain everything, answer all of our questions, and make us feel like we were part of a family. That’s why I nominated them for this donation—they deserve it.”

Patricia’s treatment path has included care from Shore’s multidisciplinary team, including Dr. Vijay Sandilya and radiation oncologist Dr. John Wilson. When her cancer spread to the brain, the team worked closely with specialists at Penn Medicine to coordinate advanced pinpoint radiation, exemplifying Shore’s commitment to integrated, high-quality care.

“The nurses, doctors, and support staff at Shore Cancer Center have been phenomenal,” said Patricia. “They treat me with warmth, patience, and kindness every step of the way. I’ve had my ups and downs, but I’ve never felt alone in my fight. Shore has truly become a second home.”

Representatives from Village Super Market and the Rio Grande ShopRite store joined Bob and Patricia today at Shore Cancer Center to present the donation check. Their visit highlighted the powerful connection between local businesses and community health institutions.

“We are incredibly grateful to Bob Post and to the Sumas Family Foundation for this meaningful gift,” said Mary McGuckin, Director of Planned Giving and Development at Shore Medical Center. “Bob’s nomination speaks volumes about the compassionate care our team strives to provide every day. This donation will help us continue to support patients and families during some of the most difficult times in their lives.”

The funds will be used to enhance services and support programs that directly benefit cancer patients and their families.

Is There Such a Thing as a Healthy Tan?

JoeSMC2009 — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:55:26 +0000

Is There Such a Thing as a Healthy Tan?

July 23, 2025

JoeSMC2009 Wed, 07/23/2025 - 15:55

Why even a “base tan” may be more harmful than helpful, according to a local dermatology expert.

As summer sunshine invites people outdoors, the idea of getting a “healthy tan” often resurfaces in conversations, magazines, and social media. But is there really such a thing? According to Jena C. Caiazza, MSPA, PA-C, of Kane Dermatology in Somers Point, NJ, the answer is a clear and unequivocal no.

“We consider all tans to be a sign of DNA damage,” Caiazza states. “In reality, any tan at all is a sign of injury to the skin.”

When your skin darkens in response to sun exposure, it’s not becoming healthier—it’s sounding the alarm. Caiazza explains that tanning occurs when melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in your skin, begin creating more melanin as a defense mechanism. “Your body is trying to protect itself against the sun’s harmful rays by creating a pigment barrier,” she says. “So, when your skin tans, it’s reacting to damage—it’s not becoming stronger, it’s trying to shield itself from further harm.” In essence, a tan isn’t a badge of health. It’s your body telling you that UV radiation has caused cellular injury.

Another popular misconception is that developing a “base tan” before a vacation or extended sun exposure will help protect your skin from burning. “That is not a great way to look at it,” Caiazza emphasizes. “A base tan is equivalent of an Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 4, which is well below the recommended minimum of SPF 30.” A base tan often provides a false sense of security that can lead to increased time in the sun—and increased risk of long-term skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer.

Different skin types react differently to UV exposure. Some people burn quickly, while others tan more easily. But that doesn’t mean those who tan are safe. “It’s hard to draw a clear line because every skin type is different,” Caiazza notes. “But just because you don’t burn doesn’t mean your skin isn’t being damaged.”

So, how can you safely enjoy time outdoors? Caiazza strongly recommends daily use of sunscreen—preferably SPF 30 or higher. “I always recommend physical blockers—look for ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide,” she says. “They act like a shield on your skin, reflecting UV rays before they penetrate.” Chemical sunscreens (often found in spray-on products) can be a backup option for convenience, but she encourages patients to use physical sunscreens whenever possible for optimal protection.

If you’re chasing a tan to look healthy, it’s time to rethink that goal. A tan is your skin’s SOS—a visible sign that damage could already be underway.

Jena C. Caiazza, PA-C, is board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants and she is an active member of both the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. She practices at Kane Dermatology in Somers Point, NJ. Kane Dermatology is located at 223 Shore Road, Somers Point, NJ. For appointments or inquiries, call 609-705-SKIN (7546) or visit kanedermatology.com.

Physician Spotlight: Dr. John Wilson, Radiation Oncologist, Shore Cancer Center

JoeSMC2009 — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 16:44:40 +0000

Physician Spotlight: Dr. John Wilson, Radiation Oncologist, Shore Cancer Center

February 28, 2025

JoeSMC2009 Fri, 02/28/2025 - 11:44

As we celebrate National Doctors’ Day this March, Shore Medical Center is honored to highlight some of the outstanding physicians who dedicate their expertise and compassion to our community. Today, we are proud to spotlight Dr. John Wilson, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology at Shore Cancer Center and a Penn Medicine Radiation Oncologist. With nearly two decades of experience in radiation oncology, Dr. Wilson brings a passion for patient care and a commitment to excellence.

Background & Career Path
Dr. Wilson’s journey into medicine began early, inspired by his mother, a nurse. “My mother was probably my first inspiration to become a physician. She helped foster in me a fascination about the human body and how it works, and also introduced me to the art of caring for people who are sick, with all the patience and understanding that often requires.”

His interest in medicine deepened through high school volunteer work at a local hospital and an AP biology course. “I had a great teacher who was good at bringing some of the more basic science concepts into practical applications in the healthcare field.”

Dr. Wilson attended Harvard University for his undergraduate studies, followed by medical school and residency in radiation oncology at the University of Pennsylvania. “I continue with the University of Pennsylvania as an employed physician with them,” he shares. Since completing his training in 2006, he has devoted nearly 19 years to radiation oncology.

In 2021, Dr. Wilson joined Shore Cancer Center and was honored to be named Medical Director of Radiation Oncology. He has also been recognized multiple times as a “Top Doc” by SJ Magazine, most recently in 2022.

Passion for Medicine
Dr. Wilson’s choice of specialty was deeply personal. “Near the end of high school, my grandmother developed lung cancer, and I saw her fight a tough battle with that. When I was in college, I started working in a cancer research lab during the summers, which was fascinating to me. During medical school, I became interested in radiology and enjoyed the feeling of being like a medical detective to find out what was wrong. Radiation oncology was the perfect field for me that combined my interest in cancer and radiology and the ability to still have a lot of interaction directly with patients.”

He finds immense fulfillment in his work, particularly in seeing his patients thrive after treatment. “By far the most rewarding thing about my work is when I see follow-ups returning several years after their treatment and they are still doing well and no sign of cancer recurrence. I also am inspired by how my patients face their diagnosis and treatment with such courage and grace under pressure.”

Impact on Patients & Community
Dr. Wilson is dedicated to educating his patients about their diagnosis and treatment. “I try to educate my patients as much as I can about their diagnosis and treatment options so that they become empowered to make educated decisions about their health.”

He also wants people to understand how personalized radiation treatments are. “I wish people understood better how custom-designed our radiation treatments are to a patient's body shape and size and their specific diagnosis and stage. Sometimes there is a misunderstanding when they come in for consultation that they will be getting their first radiation treatment at the same time, but very often it takes us about a week of planning in order to develop the ideal treatment plan for them. I also wish people understood how clinically oriented our field is, and we interact directly with patients a lot.”

Teamwork & Shore Medical Center Experience
Dr. Wilson values the camaraderie and patient-centered approach at Shore Medical Center. “I think I appreciate the collegial atmosphere the most at Shore Medical Center. I feel there is such a positive vibe here, focusing on what is best for the patient, and at the same time a good measure of lightheartedness and sense of humor to help lighten some of the darkness that needs to be traversed.”

Personal Perspective
Outside of work, Dr. Wilson finds balance in surfing and music. “I enjoy surfing with my friends and children, and playing guitar and singing with my band when I am not with patients. Our band has been fortunate to arrange music festivals with other bands to raise money for things such as mental health and the homeless population.”

Shore Medical Center is proud to have Dr. Wilson as part of our dedicated team, bringing exceptional care and compassion to our community.

Stay Ahead of Cancer: The Life-Saving Power of Cervical Cancer Screenings

JoeSMC2009 — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 17:42:25 +0000

Stay Ahead of Cancer: The Life-Saving Power of Cervical Cancer Screenings

January 9, 2025

JoeSMC2009 Thu, 01/09/2025 - 12:42

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a vital reminder to prioritize regular health screenings that can save lives. Cervical cancer, while serious, is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. Through routine screenings and early intervention, lives can be saved, and treatment outcomes significantly improved.

The Importance of Regular Screenings
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Cancer Society recommend regular screenings to detect cervical cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages:

Ages 21-29: Women should begin screening at age 21 with a Pap test every three years.
Ages 30-65: Women have two options: continue with a Pap test every three years or opt for co-testing (Pap test combined with HPV testing) every five years.
Over 65: Women with a history of normal screening results may no longer need to be screened. However, those with previous cervical precancer or other risk factors should consult their healthcare provider for guidance.

These guidelines underscore the importance of identifying early changes in cervical cells, allowing for timely treatment before cancer develops or progresses.

Treatment Options for Cervical Cancer
If cervical cancer is detected, treatment options vary depending on the stage and individual health factors. Common treatments include:

Surgery: Often used for early-stage cervical cancer, procedures like hysterectomy or trachelectomy can remove cancerous tissue.
Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams target and destroy cancer cells, often used in combination with chemotherapy for more advanced stages.
Chemotherapy: Administered to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors, especially in advanced stages or when radiation is also required.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: Newer treatments focus on attacking cancer cells specifically or boosting the immune system to fight cancer effectively.

Early detection through regular screenings ensures a higher likelihood of successful treatment and recovery.

Free Screenings Through Shore Medical Center’s CEED Program
For those in Atlantic and Cape May counties, Shore Medical Center provides an invaluable resource as the lead agency for the Cancer Education and Early Detection (CEED) program. Funded by the state, this program offers FREE cancer screenings for residents who are uninsured, underinsured, and meet income criteria.

CEED covers screenings for cervical, breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers, including Pap tests, mammograms, colonoscopies, and PSA tests. By reducing financial barriers, the program ensures that lifesaving screenings are accessible to everyone, regardless of income or insurance status.

If you or someone you know is unable to afford critical cancer screenings, contact the CEED program at 609-653-3484.

Take Action Today
Cervical cancer often shows no symptoms in its early stages, making regular screenings essential. Early detection not only improves survival rates but can also mean less invasive and more effective treatments.

This January, take the opportunity to schedule your cervical cancer screening. Encourage your loved ones to do the same. If cost is a concern, Shore Medical Center’s CEED program is here to help. Remember, a few minutes of screening could save your life.

Stay proactive, stay healthy, and take charge of your well-being today.

The contents of this article have been reviewed by Vijay Sandilya, MD, Medical Director of the Medical Oncology program at Shore Cancer Center, a member of the Penn Cancer Network. Since 1987, Shore Medical Center has received approval from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC), by meeting or exceeding the organization’s stringent standards for patient care. Shore Cancer Center is located in Somers Point, NJ, across Medical Center Way from Shore Medical Center.

Shore Cancer Center Radiation Oncology Receives Prestigious ACRO Re-Accreditation with Zero Deficiencies

JoeSMC2009 — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 16:54:18 +0000

Shore Cancer Center Radiation Oncology Receives Prestigious ACRO Re-Accreditation with Zero Deficiencies

December 4, 2024

JoeSMC2009 Wed, 12/04/2024 - 11:54

Physicians and staff from Shore Cancer Center's Radiation Oncology program proudly display their reaccreditation certificate from the American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO) in the radiation treatment room, standing in front of the Varian TrueBeam linear accelerator. This achievement underscores the program’s commitment to providing exceptional, high-quality care to patients.

Shore Cancer Center’s Radiation Oncology Program is proud to announce its re-accreditation by the American College of Radiation Oncology (ACRO), achieving this distinction with zero deficiencies. This honor reaffirms the Center’s commitment to providing exceptional quality and safety in radiation oncology care.

ACRO, a nationally recognized authority in radiation oncology practice standards, developed its accreditation program in 1995 to promote excellence in patient care. Accreditation is a rigorous, voluntary process in which professional peers conduct an audit to ensure that the practice adheres to the highest industry standards.

“Achieving ACRO re-accreditation with zero deficiencies is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our entire team,” said Mei Gavrell, Administrative Director of Laboratory Services and Oncology. “It reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of safety, collaboration, and excellence for the benefit of our patients and their families.”

ACRO accreditation not only assures patients and referring physicians of the practice’s adherence to quality standards but also distinguishes Shore Cancer Center’s radiation oncology program in an increasingly competitive healthcare environment. The accreditation process itself is invaluable, providing opportunities for team growth and enhanced collaboration while underscoring the importance of patient safety at every level of care.

“This achievement reaffirms our mission to deliver the highest level of care to our community,” added Gavrell. “It’s not just about meeting the standards—it’s about exceeding them.”

Shore Cancer Center, a member of the Penn Medicine Cancer Network, is proud to continue its legacy of excellence in radiation oncology, ensuring patients receive state-of-the-art treatment in a compassionate and safe environment. This program is led by Penn Medicine Radiation Oncologist John Wilson, MD. Dr. Wilson treats all cancer types that need radiotherapy, and together with a highly trained team of experts at Shore Cancer Center Radiation Oncology, provide advanced radiation treatment options to patients close to home. For more information about Shore Cancer Center and its services, please call 609-653-3500.

Breast Cancer on the Rise Among Younger Women and Asian Americans, New Report Shows

JoeSMC2009 — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 16:42:17 +0000

Breast Cancer on the Rise Among Younger Women and Asian Americans, New Report Shows

October 30, 2024

JoeSMC2009 Wed, 10/30/2024 - 12:42

On October 1, 2024, the American Cancer Society released a report revealing an alarming trend: while breast cancer death rates have continued to fall, the number of new breast cancer diagnoses is steadily rising, particularly among younger women and Asian Americans. The report underscores the need for heightened awareness, early detection, and lifestyle changes to counter this concerning development.

At Shore Cancer Center in Somers Point, NJ, a member of the Penn Cancer Network, healthcare professionals are paying close attention to the findings. “One of the reasons we’re seeing more breast cancer cases is that awareness around the importance of mammograms has increased,” said Dr. Vijay Sandilya, Medical Director of Shore Cancer Center. “Women are getting screened more frequently and earlier in life, which allows us to catch cancer in its earliest stages. We’re also discovering pre-cancerous lesions that may not have been detected before, and we’re able to treat them before they develop into more serious conditions.”

Dr. Sandilya’s emphasis on the role of early detection is echoed throughout the report. With mammograms becoming a routine part of healthcare for women, more cases are being caught early, contributing to higher diagnosis rates. This early detection often leads to better treatment outcomes, as catching cancer at its earliest stage significantly improves the chances of survival.

Dr. Vijaykumar Gandhi, a board-certified medical oncologist, hematologist, and internist at Shore Cancer Center, also highlighted the importance of these screenings. “These pre-cancerous lesions that we are now able to detect early may or may not be clinically significant, but they give us a chance to intervene early. In the past, these lesions may have gone unnoticed, only becoming a concern when they had progressed further.”

The report from the American Cancer Society also suggests that rising breast cancer rates may be linked to certain lifestyle factors, especially in younger women and Asian Americans. “There has not been any changes in genetic factors, but there has been a shift in lifestyle habits over the years,” Dr. Gandhi explained. “Increased alcohol use, smoking, increased age at first full-term pregnancy, poor dietary habits, obesity and sedentary lifestyle - leading to higher insulin resistance - are all factors that can increase the risk of breast cancer. These changes in daily habits, particularly in younger women and within specific communities like Asian Americans, are likely contributing to the rise in breast cancer cases.”

The rising rates of breast cancer among Asian Americans have drawn attention because this demographic traditionally had lower rates of the disease compared to other populations. Experts believe that changes in reproductive behavior, dietary habits, and migration patterns may be playing a role. “Asian Americans are adopting more Westernized diets and lifestyles, which could explain why we’re seeing an increase in breast cancer rates in this population,” Dr. Sandilya added. “This is an important area for further research, but the most immediate step we can take is ensuring that every woman, regardless of her background, is aware of the importance of regular screenings.”

Both doctors agree that while awareness and screenings are vital, addressing the root causes of the rise in breast cancer requires a focus on lifestyle changes. “We must look at the bigger picture,” Dr. Gandhi said. “Encouraging healthier living—whether that means promoting a better diet, increasing physical activity, or reducing obesity, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption—needs to be part of the conversation.”

As breast cancer rates continue to rise among these populations, Dr. Sandilya and Dr. Gandhi urge women to take proactive steps for their health. “The earlier we catch breast cancer, the better the chances of successful treatment,” Dr. Sandilya said. “Mammograms save lives, but we also need to educate women on how their daily habits can impact their long-term health.”

The team at Shore Cancer Center is committed to providing top-quality care for breast cancer patients, offering cutting-edge treatments and access to the latest clinical trials through their membership in the Penn Cancer Network. “We’re here to help every step of the way, from early detection through treatment,” Dr. Gandhi noted. “But the key is for women to be vigilant about their health.”

The American Cancer Society’s report serves as a reminder that while breast cancer treatment continues to improve, the fight against the disease is far from over. Awareness, early detection, and lifestyle changes are essential tools in curbing the rise in breast cancer, especially in younger women and Asian Americans.

Caring Together: How the RNS Cancer Fund Continues to Transform Cancer Care at Shore

JoeSMC2009 — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 19:30:39 +0000

Caring Together: How the RNS Cancer Fund Continues to Transform Cancer Care at Shore

October 24, 2024

JoeSMC2009 Thu, 10/24/2024 - 15:30

The RNS Cancer and Heart Fund presented Shore Medical Center with a $50,000 donation to fund renovations that will add a 5th patient room for sick visits and bone marrow biopsies.

Since 1981, the Ruth Newman Shapiro (RNS) Cancer and Heart Fund has been an invaluable partner to Shore Medical Center in supporting patients undergoing cancer treatment. With over $2 million in contributions, Shore Cancer Center owes much of its success to RNS. Their support has funded a linear accelerator for radiation therapy, assisted underserved individuals with treatment costs, and, most recently, they made a $50,000 donation to expand Shore Cancer Center to better serve our patients.

Each day, over 40 patients visit Shore Cancer Center for radiation, chemotherapy, and other essential appointments—a number that continues to grow as more seek local cancer care. Thanks to RNS’s recent gift, we are adding a much-needed fifth patient room on the second floor, allowing us to expand our compassionate care and reduce wait times.

Roe Magliocco is the President of RNS, and has been involved with the volunteer-run organization since 2005.

“Our mission at RNS has been the same since we were founded - to provide the finest treatment and facilities in our community for people with cancer. They shouldn’t have to travel 60 to 90 miles to a major city – they should be able to get good care here, right in their backyard. That continues to be our mission as we head into our 64th year,” Roe says.

The new patient room will serve three critical purposes:

Reduce Wait Times: An additional room means patients can be called back for their appointment sooner.
Sick Visits: Chemotherapy patients needing urgent care, whether due to dehydration or fever, will have a private, comfortable space where they can be seen immediately, rather than waiting in the waiting area.
Bone Marrow Biopsies: This dedicated room will also accommodate bone marrow biopsies, a vital diagnostic tool for certain cancers, equipped with all necessary supplies to ensure smooth, efficient care.

Roe says she and the RNS members feel wonderful knowing they are helping to alleviate stress for patients and their loved ones.

“Cancer treatment is no picnic to go through, mentally or physically. If you’re waiting, then you’re thinking. Your mind travels, and it breaks you down. It’s much better to get in and out, do what you have to do, and go home and rest. We’re glad to help make treatment a little easier for patients at Shore Cancer Center,” Roe says.

What’s especially amazing is that RNS is driven solely by volunteers, and the funds they raise happen through events like their annual Bag Ladies Luncheon and upcoming Wine Tasting on October 29 at Sofia in Margate.

“No one gets paid, not even for gas money. We do it from the bottom of our hearts. Everyone involved with RNS has been touched by cancer in some sort of way whether it’s themselves or a loved one. Really, it’s a give back,” Roe says. “Cancer is such an ugly thing. It doesn’t care who you are, rich, poor or in between, it doesn’t discriminate.”

The impact of the Ruth Newman Shapiro Cancer and Heart Fund goes beyond financial support—it’s felt by every patient, every family, and every healthcare professional who benefits from the resources they’ve provided.

As we reflect on the decades of unwavering support from RNS, we’re reminded of what Caring Together truly means. Their commitment to our patients, families, and staff has helped shape Shore Cancer Center into the compassionate and innovative center of care it is today. Together, we are making a real difference in the lives of those faced with cancer.

Managing Side Effects of Cancer Medication

JoeSMC2009 — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 13:23:53 +0000

Managing Side Effects of Cancer Medication

March 19, 2024

JoeSMC2009 Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:23

One of the challenges facing patients being treated for cancer and post treatment is the potential side effects of medication.

While medications vary depending on the diagnosis, symptoms, and the patient, one thing that can help with managing side effects is honest and consistent communication.

“I cannot stress enough the importance of open communication between a patient and those caring for them. I highly recommend that patients should listen to their body, and then share their concerns with their oncologist or primary care provider,” said Nicole Pancari, Pharmacy Resident at Shore Medical Center. “Patients should be vocal, and not be shy about expressing their concerns and how they are feeling. The more providers know, the more equipped they can be to help.”

For example, patients who are about to receive chemotherapy treatment or are receiving treatment should talk with their oncologist about potential side effects and at what point should the patient expect to experience a side effect. These patients should also ask their doctor if there is anything they can do to avoid side effects, such as taking an anti-nausea medication such as ondansetron (Zofran).

Pancari recommends that patients should write down any questions they have prior to meeting with their doctor so they remember to discuss these concerns at their appointment. In addition, she stresses the importance of keeping one’s doctor/pharmacist if there are changes to their medications, and if they are taking any over-the-counter medications.

“Some people decide on their own to take herbal supplements or over-the-counter medications because they read something on-line or heard it from someone they know. We understand the temptation to try it and the desire to fix everything at once. It’s human nature,” said Pancari. “For those that do this, please to not try and hide this information from your doctor/pharmacist. Tell them what you are taking and why you decided to do so. Not only can your clinician provide feeback, but they can also explain to you the results of mixing medications, which can often lead to negative results.”

“Everything related to medication is manageable, and there is probably something that can be given to address a side effect,” said Pancari. “But, in order for a doctor/pharmacist to provide the best possible help, they need to know the whole picture. Always remember, your clinical team is highly trained and is here to help every step of the way.”

Former Smoker-Turned Cancer Outreach Coordinator Advocates for Lung Cancer Screenings

JoeSMC2009 — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 13:15:14 +0000

Former Smoker-Turned Cancer Outreach Coordinator Advocates for Lung Cancer Screenings

February 21, 2024

JoeSMC2009 Wed, 02/21/2024 - 08:15

Stacy Fisher is the Cancer Outreach Coordinator for the Cape Atlantic Coalition at Shore Medical Center who is helping to organize a free lung cancer screening at Shore Cancer Center on March 23, 9 am to noon. In this article, you’ll learn more about lung cancer screenings through Stacy’s experience both professionally, and as a former smoker who underwent lung cancer screening herself.

A little over a year ago, Stacy Fisher, of Ocean City, applied for a job as a Cancer Outreach Coordinator with the Cape Atlantic Coalition for Health at Shore Medical Center - but there was one problem. She was a heavy smoker, and if she was offered this job, she couldn’t possibly continue smoking while teaching others about cancer prevention.

“I began smoking about 15 years ago during a stressful time in my life, and soon became a heavy smoker, smoking up to two packs a day,” Fisher said. “When I got the job offer at Shore, I was so grateful and motivated that I quit cold turkey.”

Little did Fisher know that not only would this position motivate her to quit smoking, it would also introduce her to low dose CT (LDCT) screenings that can detect lung cancer early when it is most treatable.

“One of my first projects at Shore was organizing a free lung cancer screening event for eligible current and former smokers. I was amazed that this was offered to the community. Despite being a smoker for so long, I never heard of LDCT screenings or knew that I could get them every year because of my age and smoking history. So, I decided to get screened myself!”

Screening Saves Lives, But LDCT Rates are Low
Lung cancer doesn’t usually show any symptoms until its later stages when it has already spread, which is why it is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the nation and has a low survival rate. But when caught early, it can often be removed surgically before it spreads and dramatically improve your rate of survival, and even cure it. Unfortunately, only 5.8% of people eligible for LDCT lung cancer screening actually get it, which Fisher says is primarily because of lack of awareness, confusion about eligibility, and fear.

Who Should Get Screened?
The screening guidelines for LDCT are based on recommendations from the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). You are considered eligible for lung cancer screening if:

You’re between the ages of 50 and 80
You are a current smoker or you have quit in the past 15 years
You have a 20-pack-year smoking history. To figure out your pack-year history, multiply the number of packs of cigarettes smoked per day by the number of years you’ve smoked. For example, if you smoked a pack a day for 20 years, or if you smoked two packs a day for 10 years, you have a 20-pack-year history.

Fisher’s Experience: There is Fear in Not Knowing
When Fisher underwent LDCT in 2023, she admits she was afraid of what she might find out.

“A little part of me didn’t want to know my results, but there is also fear in not knowing. If you don’t get screened, you’ll live with that nagging worry about what might be happening in your lungs. I had to put my big girl pants on and realize I need to take better care of myself, and part of that is getting screened and being fully knowledgeable of my health status. It’s not fair to yourself or the people you love to put this off.”

Fisher said it was a very simple process. First, she discussed her smoking history with the physician at the screening event to ensure she was eligible and that screening would benefit her. She received the LDCT prescription, and at the event was able to schedule her screening at Advanced Shore Imaging Associates in Northfield for later that week.

“The LDCT was quick and easy. Everyone was so nice at Advanced Shore Imaging Associates. I was in and out surprisingly very quickly.”

A few days later, Fisher received her results.

“I felt a sense of relief. Knowing my health status is better than not knowing,” Fisher said. “It made me feel accountable for once, that I took this step to take care of myself. I know that I did do some damage, but I’m in control now. I have a baseline to work from, and feel even more motivated to continue to make healthier life choices.”

Fisher says that for those who cannot attend the March 23 screening but would like to get screened, they should talk to their doctor.

“If you meet eligibility requirements, your insurance should cover the LDCT screening,” Fisher says. “If your doctor doesn’t mention LDCT, speak up and tell them you want to be screened and discuss your eligibility. As patients, we have to be our own advocate and be informed of our options.”

Fisher also encourages anyone who is uncertain or has questions, either about quitting smoking or just to hear more about her experience, to give her a call.

“I know what it’s like and I know how hard it is to quit. I tried many times before I quit cold turkey, but as someone with experience, please reach out to me at stacy.fisher@shoremedicalcenter.org or at 609-653-3923. I’m happy to help you schedule your screening, or any other way that I can.”

Shore Medical Center’s Free Lung Cancer Screening Event is Saturday, March 23, 2024, 9:00 am to noon at Shore Cancer Center, located at 644 Shore Road in Somers Point, NJ. To participate, you must call to discuss your eligibility and make an appointment at 609-653-3923.

Shore Cancer Center Receives Re-Accreditation from the Commission on Cancer with Zero Deficiencies

admin — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 21:00:44 +0000

Shore Cancer Center Receives Re-Accreditation from the Commission on Cancer with Zero Deficiencies

July 19, 2023

admin Sat, 09/23/2023 - 17:00

Shore Medical Center is proud to announce that its Cancer Center, a member of the Penn Cancer Network, has been re-accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) with zero deficiencies. The CoC, a voluntary quality program of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), focuses on maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety in Oncology Programs.

To achieve CoC accreditation, cancer programs must meet 34 quality of care standards established by the CoC, undergo comprehensive evaluations every three years, and consistently deliver exceptional patient-centered care across multiple disciplines.

The recent re-accreditation of Shore Cancer Center is a remarkable and challenging achievement. This success is a testament to the dedication and collaborative efforts of the entire Cancer Center team, spanning numerous disciplines. Each individual's contribution played a vital role in meeting and surpassing the CoC's rigorous standards.

Notably, Kimberly Kaczmarski, MBA, ROCC, RT (R)(T)(CT), Manager of Radiation Oncology, and Dr. James Pond, Pathologist and Cancer Committee Chair, deserve special recognition for their exceptional work in spearheading the CoC accreditation process and providing guidance throughout the entire journey. Their expertise and commitment have been instrumental in the Cancer Center's continued pursuit of excellence.

"We are thrilled to announce our re-accreditation by the Commission on Cancer with zero deficiencies," said Matthew Piskun, PharmD, MBA, Director of Pharmacy, Oncology and Infusion Services at the Shore Cancer Center. "This achievement showcases our unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding care to our patients and upholding the highest standards of quality and safety. We extend our sincere appreciation to every individual who contributed to this success and reaffirm our commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care."

Shore Cancer Center remains committed to advancing cancer care, staying at the forefront of medical advancements, and continuously improving patient outcomes. This re-accreditation serves as a testament to their ongoing efforts and dedication to excellence.

For more information about Shore Cancer Center and its services, please visit https://shoremedicalcenter.org/centers/cancer or call 609-653-3585.