Fox Chase Cancer Center

Congrats to all of our 2021 Philadelphia Magazine Top Docs! See the list of Fox Chase doctors here: https://bit.ly/3vFeicv.

Join us for our virtual Together Facing Prostate Cancer live event! We invite patients, caregivers, health care professionals, and members of the local community to learn more about prostate cancer. The event will feature an expert panel with Fox Chase clinicians who will be discussing treatment options, clinical trials, new therapy advancements, and supportive services offered. They'll also be answering questions during the live event. Please feel free to comment or message us with your questions in advance! Learn more about this event and how to register here: https://bit.ly/2R7iG50.

Join us in two weeks at the 2021 LUNG FORCE Walk! Our Fox Chase team will be walking in support of the American Lung Association to promote lung health and raise money for early disease detection and life-saving research. Learn more about our team and how to join us here: https://bit.ly/3t1fTry.

Myth: If you already had COVID-19, you don't need the vaccine. Fact: It is recommended that you still get the vaccine even if you had COVID-19 in the past. Experts aren’t sure how long a person may be protected from re-infection with the disease. Learn more about why you should get the COVID-19 vaccine: https://bit.ly/3aNzpBu.

There are small changes we can make every day to lower our cancer risk. Something small, such as taking a short walking break every hour if you're working from a desk, can make a difference. Learn about the five things medical oncologist Dr. Rishi Jain recommends for reducing cancer risk and improving overall health: https://bit.ly/3xAXFkc

Many health benefits come with quitting smoking and tobacco products, even (and especially) when you are facing cancer. However, it can be difficult to quit, and many individuals find it helpful to join a program that will support them through the process. Learn more about the benefits of quitting smoking and Fox Chase’s Tobacco Treatment Program, which is starting a new virtual group program on January 12th: http://bit.ly/2VQqyEI.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has put a bigger focus on the cleaning practices of healthcare institutions, the Fox Chase Environmental Services Team has always been dedicated to keeping our facilities safe for our patients and staff. When the pandemic began, this team was researching best practices, keeping up with constantly changing information, and innovating new technologies offering even better protection for those who entered our Center. Read more about this incredible team and the crucial work they do: http://bit.ly/3aD7Nj7.

"Doctor to the Gingerbread Man: Sore leg, huh? Have you tried icing it?" A good (or bad) joke usually brings a smile to everyone's face, especially for those in the hospital during the holiday season. While no one wants to be in the hospital during this time of year, it is unavoidable for some. We're giving a huge shout out to our 3rd floor surgical oncology nursing team, who created a "snowflake stroll" for patients who need to spend the holidays in our hospital. We're sure you've brought many smiles to our patients' faces during their walks through the halls!

As an EMT and firefighter, Robert Roy was used to being brave in the midst of a crisis. However, when he was diagnosed with colon cancer, he couldn't help but feel nervous. During a procedure at his local hospital to have his tumor removed, it was discovered that Robert’s cancer was worse than expected. Because of this, his surgeon determined that his cancer was inoperable and likely incurable. That’s when Robert decided to get a second opinion at Fox Chase. He met with a med...ical oncologist who started him on a chemotherapy regimen, hoping to shrink the tumor enough to make it operable. After that part of his treatment, Robert underwent a successful surgery to remove his tumor, and now has a clean bill of health! Now cancer-free, he is still monitored closely due to a genetic mutation that puts him at additional risk for cancer. But, he is back to doing what he loves working for EMS and the fire department! Learn more about Robert’s incredible journey and how Fox Chase helped him get back to his passions: http://bit.ly/3aje3wf."

This holiday season, we are so grateful for our amazing staff members who are dedicated to our patients and overall mission of prevailing over cancer. We have worked tirelessly this year to overcome the many challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and have only grown stronger in our efforts to keep each other safe. On behalf of everyone at Fox Chase Cancer Center, we wish you a safe and happy holiday!

When facing a lung cancer diagnosis, it’s important to consider all of your treatment options and know what questions to ask your care team. Fox Chase thoracic medical oncologist Dr. Jessica Bauman recently partnered with the Patient Empowerment Network on a program for lung cancer patients. The presentation reviewed treatment types and key decision-making factors as well as provided advice on advocating for your care. Learn more and watch the full program here: https://bit.ly/3oP2BfS.

At-home genetic testing kits are becoming a popular holiday gift, but what can these tests tell you about your risk of developing cancer? Fox Chase’s Dr. Michael Hall, Chair and Professor in the Department of Clinical Genetics, helps shed some light on this subject and the importance of getting a genetic counselor’s input. Read more here: http://bit.ly/3miiTfT.

Mantle cell lymphoma, an uncommon subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, is known to have high rates of recurrence even after treatment with chemotherapy and stem cell transplant. However, a new cell-based gene therapy is providing great results to patients with the disease, and in one study, more than 60 percent of individuals no longer showed any sign of cancer. This therapy, known as Tecartus, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is now available at Fox Chas...e. Learn more about this treatment from Dr. Henry Chi Hang Fung, Chair of our Department of Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapies: https://bit.ly/3oQ4Xex.

The holidays are known for being a time to connect with those you love. However, this year, it’s important to protect our friends and family members by staying home and social distancing from those not living in our households. While holiday celebrations will need to be different this year, there are a lot of creatives ways to support our loved ones during this difficult time take a look!: https://bit.ly/377ulGC.

After a routine appendectomy revealed a mucous-like substance (mucin) attached to her appendix, Trela Abad was referred to a surgical oncologist for further diagnosis. Unfortunately, further testing found that the mucin had spread throughout Trela’s abdomen. Suspecting a rare cancer, she was referred to Fox Chase for further diagnosis and specialized treatment. At Fox Chase, Trela was diagnosed with low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm. While she was surprised by her diagn...osis, she had complete trust in her care team and their vast experience with a two-step treatment option known as hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). After undergoing a 12.5 hour procedure, Trela was on the road to recovery, and shortly after, she met her now-husband, Jacques. They may be planning a move back to Texas, but Trela plans on travelling back to PA for her Fox Chase check ups! Learn more about Trela’s rare cancer, her specialized treatment, and her amazing recovery: https://bit.ly/34pYAqS.

There is still time to register your four-legged friend (or even your favorite bird) for this year's virtual Paws for the Cause! During the whole month of October, we've been encouraging others to get active in support of a great cause: funding cancer research! Learn more about how we're taking one of our favorite annual events online this year and register or make a donation here: https://bit.ly/2ZAg0yi.

Lymphedema occurs when the lymph system is blocked or damaged and fluid builds up in the soft tissues of the body. This in turn causes swelling. This condition can be caused by a number of different cancer treatments, and it can severely affect the lives of patients. Fortunately, there are many treatment optionsincluding surgery. Fox Chase plastic and reconstructive surgeon M. Shuja Shafqat, MD discusses lymphedema treatment and surgical options on our blog. Find out more here: https://bit.ly/3kkBtDK.

Testicular cancer isn’t very common, so many individuals may not know about its risk factors, common symptoms and what to watch out for. Fox Chase medical oncologist Dr. Daniel Geynisman discusses five of the most important things to know about this disease on our blog learn more: https://bit.ly/2Tf7Gk4.

With lymphoma recently coming up in the news, its important to be aware of the disease's symptoms and treatment. Chair of Fox Chase’s Department of Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapies Dr. Henry Fung recently spoke to Prevention.com about lymphoma and what individuals should look out for. Read more here: https://bit.ly/3jj5p1Z.

October 16th is a day Jim Myrtetus and his family celebrate every year. It's the day that his team at Fox Chase told him he had no evidence of disease after facing stage III colon cancer. This year was a special anniversaryit was his fifth year cancer-free! Jim sent his "Fox Chase family" a note to celebrate, where he reflected on his journey and shared some parts that stood out: "There are many great cancer centers in the US, but this is why Fox Chase is special and what I... will always remember as critical parts to my cure: The person at the desk when I arrived at each visit with a warm hello and smile The folks who drew my blood asking how I have been since last visit, saying that I looked really good that day The person in the café who always had a smile when I grabbed a soft pretzel The person who would welcome me into the infusion room for treatment with a kind hello and a warm blanket Dr. Reddy telling me: 'We got this today!' with a high five and a huge smile the day of surgery The post-op nurse saying let’s get you up and go for a walk Dr. Hall and Eric assuring me that things were going to plan each visit and that I was doing great The nurses asking how I was feeling and talking about plans for the weekend and how the Phillies were doing The receptionist who asked: 'What flavor for the CT scan prep do you want?' and when I responded with: 'You got something in pina colada?', she laughed out loud with me and grabbed the banana flavor" Every patient who walks in the doors of Fox Chase needs something different, and we are so grateful for and proud of every single person on our care team who makes our patients not only feel confident, but also at home here. We'll always be there to celebrate right alongside you and your family, Jim! Read more of Jim's story here: https://bit.ly/3jfV86G.

On Tuesday, October 27th, we're hosting a Facebook LIVE event for patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals affected by breast cancer. The event will feature an expert panel of Fox Chase physicians discussing breast cancer treatment options, genetic testing and clinical trials. This will be an interactive event that will take place on the Fox Chase Cancer Center Facebook page, and all questions are welcome! Learn more about this event and register here: https://bit.ly/2SXvpoU.

Telling a child that someone they care about has cancer is a very difficult, yet important, thing to do. While this conversation will be hard, it’s important to share this information in a way that will help them feel safe and secure. Fox Chase clinical psychologist Paula Finestone, PhD, shares some tips for talking to children about cancer on our blog: http://bit.ly/2pkd4nA.

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month (and on National Mammography Day), we're encouraging all eligible women to schedule a screening mammogram for breast cancer. Screening mammograms can help detect breast cancer early before any symptoms appear and when there is better chance for successful treatment. Learn more about breast cancer risk factors, symptoms and screening guidelines: https://bit.ly/31f4OrG.

‘Cowboy’ Jack Novek has loved horses and working outside for many years, and when he received a prostate cancer diagnosis in 1993, it didn’t slow him down. After treatment at Fox Chase, he was back on his feet in no time. He was so happy with his care team that when he was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2017, he went back again for treatment. Unfortunately, Jack’s cancer journey wasn’t over, and in 2019, he was diagnosed with MALT non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He was also found to ha...ve a pre-cancerous polyp which, if left untreated, would become colon cancer. Luckily, Fox Chase was there for him again, and after undergoing radiation therapy and surgery to remove his polyp, he was back to doing what he lovesworking on his farm and trap shooting! Jack's life has been full of love, horses, farming, and so much more. Meet Jack and learn more about his incredible story and his treatment team here: https://bit.ly/3lRTqKo.

HAPPENING NOW: Fox Chase Drs. Christopher Manley, Jessica Bauman and Stacey Su are live on the 6abc Action News Facebook page answering all of your questions about lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Join now and leave a comment with any questions you would like answered: https://bit.ly/3dqvIln.