Women gather to discuss the latest in cancer care
Febuary, 2009
Nearly 40 women gathered on Feb. 21 for afternoon tea in the private home of Carol Hall-Reinhold to talk about a topic that is often difficult to discuss—cancer. However, cancer is a very personal and familiar topic for Carol.
In December 1999, after the diagnosis of her first cancer—breast cancer—Carol, along with fellow parishioner Sue Ephland, launched a women’s cancer support group on behalf of their parish nurse, Robin Spencer, RN. Called Staying in the Pink, the group consists of women who have had or have cancer. Its purpose is to share information, education, and inspiration. Staying in the Pink meets approximately eight times each year in private homes or medical facilities.
Recently, Carol toured St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center’s Comprehensive Cancer Center. She was impressed by the center’s serene setting, as well as its multidisciplinary approach to cancer care —allowing patients to receive coordinated, specialized care conveniently on one campus. Carol was inspired by what the Center has to offer and wanted to share the Center’s needs with her friends.
While enjoying tea and cakes, the women learned the latest in cancer care from the Comprehensive Cancer Center’s own Stephanie Higley, registered dietician, and Cathy McCann, certified genetic counselor. Mary Schneider, director of the Comprehensive Cancer Center, also spoke in detail about what the center offers, as well as what the center needs to become a world-class multidisciplinary clinic.
“It is important to me to share updated information with my friends,” Carol said when asked why she hosted the event. “Some are quite knowledgeable about the latest in cancer care, while others are just beginning to gather information. The Comprehensive Caner Center has so much to offer, providing superior care and programs to both insured and underinsured patients. I want my friends to know about the facility—as well as how they can support its needs.”
You can support that Comprehensive Cancer Center at St. Joseph’s by contact the Foundation at 602-406-3041.
