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From the Frontlines of Women's Health — Meet MCI's Female Cancer Force!

THE PASSION BEHIND THE PROFESSION + Life-Changing Moments BUILDING THROUGH WISDOM How MCI Discovers, Develops, & Delivers the Region’s Best Cancer Care “I’ve had patients who’ve watched children get married and babies be born... that’s why I keep doing this.” — Jennifer Y. Pierce, MD

USA MCI Spring Special MAY 2021 usamci.com

WOMEN’S HEALTH WEEK MAY 9-15

from the A D M I N I S T R AT I V E

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aving dedicated 40 years of my career caring for oncology patients and as Mitchell Cancer Institute’s (MCI) Administrative Director, I’m honored to be part of this nationally recognized alliance that results in the very best cancer care in the region. The landscape of oncology services is rapidly changing and being part of an academic teaching organization allows our staff, physicians, fellows, and residents to continuously learn the latest and most innovative cancer services for our patients.

Having never witnessed first-hand the immeasurable benefits of this type of teaching and learning environment, the experience has been enlightening, as it has paved the way for an exclusive array of services. From financial counseling/ assistance and dedicated social workers to oncology-focused dietitians, oncology-trained infusion and specialty pharmacists, and a certified genetic counselor, these customized offerings allow us to care for every aspect of each patient’s unique journey that (in my opinion) far surpasses all other options you might find elsewhere.

As a cancer research facility, MCI

DIRECTOR...

receives grants and endowments to support our continuous and dedicated search for a cure. This dual approach is refreshing, as it allows our doctors to spend the necessary time with each patient and family to educate them

on their best potential treatment plan instead of focusing on how many patients they can see in a day.

Being on the cutting-edge of cancer care has also resulted in creating a culturally diverse team of top-notch employees and physicians that come from more than 30 countries around the world.

Each brings new perspectives that not only provide immense benefits to our patients but has directly resulted in our ability to maintain a long-term, diligent staff at MCI. To see them work together across multiple areas of expertise is

simply astonishing. Committed, this distinct team consists of physicians who perform home visits for patients too ill to come in, pharmacists who take prescriptions to patients’ homes so they can begin treatments quickly, and, of course, nurses who “love on our patients” and do whatever it takes to help them with this dreadful disease.

As we celebrate Women’s Health Week, we’re thrilled to acknowledge several female team members, as I know each woman personally and how they exemplify what matters most at MCI: full-circle patient care.

Behind each story is what drives their professional passion. For me, MCI has been the most rewarding career experience because I know we’ve made a significant difference for our patients in not only this community, but the entire region. How do I know? I witness this personally here every day, and you will as well through the stories you are about to read. Thank you to everyone who supports MCI as we continue on our journey as the oncology provider of choice.

CONTENTS 4 JENNIFER PIERCE MD, MPH, FACOG 5 CASEY DANIEL PHD, MPH 6 TEJA POOSARLA MD 8 ELIZABETH PARK MD 9 JENNIFER M. SCALICI MD 10 LYNN COLLINS RN, BSN, OCN 11 WENDY BLOUNT RN, MSN 12 LEANNE BOLTON MS, RDN 13 RACHEL HUNTER MD

USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute 251.410.1010 | usamci.com Mitchell Cancer Institute 1660 Spring Hill Ave. Mobile, AL 36604

Mitchell Cancer Institute Springhill Clinic 101 Memorial Hospital Dr. Bldg. 3, Ste. 302 Mobile, AL 36608

Mitchell Cancer Institute Fairhope Clinic 1047 Fairhope Ave. Fairhope, AL 36532

14 CASSIE GURGANUS MS, CGC 14 BRITTNEY CARDEN PHARMD 15 THROUGH THE AGES: A WOMAN’S GUIDE TO HEALTH USAMCI.com

Photos Stevye Photography, StevyePhotography.com Makeup Courtney Matthews Makeup Artistry, YouNeedBlush2020@gmail.com & Tessa Moody, TessaRayMoody@gmail.com Hair Jason Chambers, Headdress Salon, 251.689.7427 & Erin Burgess @hmubyerin, HmuByErin@gmail.com Editor Caroline Edmondson Graphic Designer Rebecca Foose

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WOM E N HELPING WOM E N

JENNIFER Y. PIERCE MD, MPH, FACOG

Fellowship-Trained Gynecologic Oncologist Director of Epidemiology & Public Health

CASEY DANIEL PHD, MPH

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JENNIFER Y. PIERCE MD, MPH, FACOG

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eclared the first female gynecologic oncologist in South Carolina in 2009, Dr. Jennifer Pierce’s accomplishments and talents speak for themselves. Recruited by Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) from the Medical University of South Carolina where she served as GYN Oncology Disease Team Leader at Hollings Cancer Center, Dr. Pierce says many mentors along the way have inspired her to follow this particular career path, especially Dr. Lynetter Denny, a GYN Oncologist Dr. Pierce worked with for six weeks in Cape Town, South Africa.

“We worked together in both the big academic hospital (Groote Schuur Hospital, incidentally the same hospital that performed the world’s first heart transplant), and also in a clinic made out of a shipping container in the shanty towns outside of the city,” she recounts.

“She has spent decades advocating for cervical cancer screening, prevention, and now vaccination.

She reminds me that this work is as important in the rural southeast U.S. as it is internationally.”

Dr. Pierce says her patients have changed her life more than she has theirs, as they remind her to keep pushing to live life to the fullest, regardless of cancer status. “I’ve had patients who went on to become ordained ministers; finish nursing school; start or finish a career in law, business, or finance; and even physicians and nurse practitioners who continued to care for their own patients while in treatment or follow-up for cancer,” Dr. Pierce shares. “I’ve had patients who watched children get married, babies be born, or (for one young woman) had a chance to attend a magical ball with a Marine ‘prince’ on her arm. That’s why I keep doing this,” she states. “Life is full of those moments, and we all want as many of them as we can get, whether we are living with cancer or surviving it. That’s why I keep doing this.”

Like many of the physicians at MCI, Dr. Pierce is a strong

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advocate for screenings, as they not only detect cancer, but also can actually prevent the disease from manifesting in the first place. “This is why it’s so important to get them on time so that the abnormal cells are found while it is still precancer, before it invades the body and potentially turns lifethreatening,” she warns.

“I wish more folks in the community understood the value we have at MCI. We have worldclass physicians not just providing the latest cancer treatments, but also participating in the trials that will decide the cancer treatments of the future. In addition, our array of services from nutrition and navigation to symptom support and emotional wellbeing really treat the whole person. We want you to not only have the most advanced treatment, but also the most personalized regimen for you in that exact moment.”

In her own life, Dr. Pierce says her morning routine is what helps keep her mind and body performing the best. “I like to get up an hour before my family to have quiet time for my devotional, meditation, journaling, and reading,” she shares. “It just helps me reset and focus on what’s important. After work, I like to walk the dogs or ride bikes around the neighborhood with my girls.”

I’ve had patients who watched children get married, babies be born, or (for one young woman) had a chance to attend a magical ball with a Marine ‘prince’ on her arm.

That’s why I keep doing this.

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Fellowship-Trained Gynecologic Oncologist

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Director of Epidemiology & Public Health

hen you first meet Casey Daniel, you instantly fall in love with her quick wit, zest for life, and her passion for cancer research. Casey’s decision to pursue a career in cancer research comes from her own struggle with the disease, having been diagnosed with Stage 3 Melanoma when she was just 16 years old. As a mere teenager, she underwent two extensive surgeries, a year of chemotherapy, and countless tests, scans, and procedures — something one can imagine was extremely trying and difficult to go through at such a young age.

“Cancer has been prominent for over half of my life, both as a patient and as a survivor,” she recounts. “As I experienced late effects from treatment and other struggles, I knew I didn’t want others to experience the terror and uncertainty that I had gone through, so I forged a career focused on cancer prevention and control — an area in which I could make a difference and try to spare others from the challenges and pain that I have faced.”

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CASEY DANIEL PHD, MPH

It’s this focus on prevention that drives Casey in her work every day. In recent years, Casey has focused on promoting HPV vaccinations to prevent cancer and serves as Chair for VAX 2 Stop Cancer, a nonprofit whose mission is to educate parents on the importance of vaccinating their children against HPV, and whose goal is to increase HPV vaccinations rates by 10 percent. “One of my most challenging and rewarding projects has been working with a community pharmacy in a very rural area to provide these vaccines,” Casey beams. “I spent a year getting that project off the ground and it was challenging every step of the way. But when we vaccinated our first patients, it was such a striking moment. There was a realization that because of the tireless work we put in, these adolescents were receiving a cancer vaccine that they might otherwise never have gotten, and that because of our efforts, we may have prevented a cancer or even a death. That kind of impact is overwhelming.”

And just like her work to educate women about vaccines, she hopes to educate women about the significance of early screening. “I wish there was more easy-to-understand

information available to raise awareness and increase education about these things,” she shares. “As a health professional, it can be a challenge for me to keep up with changes in guidelines and recommendations, and I know it is even more difficult for the general population,” she admits. “I wish there was less stigma and unnecessary shame about seeking care and asking questions. Part of my work focuses on destigmatizing some of these issues and promoting clear, direct communication between healthcare providers and patients. Women have to know what steps to take to protect themselves, and it is our responsibility to provide that information.”

Happily married and a mother to her 4-yearold son (with another on the way), Casey says promoting a healthy lifestyle within her own family is essential. “I think it’s important to be realistic about what works for you and for your family. The worst thing you can do is set unrealistic expectations. In doing so, you are setting yourself up for failure, which will lead to discouragement, which will lead to giving up,” she says. “For many women, it is our nature to beat ourselves up, but we have to give ourselves some grace and just focus on doing better. Every little action (turning down a sugary soda, taking an extra lap around the yard, etc.) is a step in the right direction.”

Cancer has been prominent for over half of my life, both as a patient and as a survivor.

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TEJA POOSARLA MD

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Fellowship-Trained Breast Medical Oncologist

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ike many physicians, Dr. Teja Poosarla’s calling came from watching one of her loved ones undergo the trials and tribulations of a cancer diagnosis. “My passion for oncology — especially breast oncology — started when my grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer,” Dr. Poosarla shares. Her grandmother (who had served as a constant source of love, perseverance, and encouragement for Dr. Poosarla) slowly deteriorated in front of her eyes. “It was a very anxious and frightening time for me and my family,” she admits. Completing her medical training at the time of the diagnosis, Dr. Poosarla was the only doctor in the family, and therefore a source of guidance and knowledge for them during such a difficult time. “This was really when I was introduced to the wonderful world of oncology,” she shares. “What resonated with me the most was the way my grandmother transformed into a stronger version of herself as she progressed through her treatments.”

Motivated to help other women fight breast cancer, Dr. Poosarla has dedicated her career to helping her female patients as a physician, friend, and advocate.

It goes without saying that being an oncologist can be extremely emotionally and physically taxing, but Dr. Poosarla says it’s her patients that continue to motivate her and make it all worth it in the end. One particular patient, a woman with metastatic breast cancer, always managed to put a smile on Dr. Poosarla’s face, even when she wasn’t feeling her best. “She would always arrive for chemotherapy dressed in bright colors and with a smile that would brighten up a room,” she fondly recalls. “Even when she was tired or had multiple symptoms, she would make it a point to ask me how I was first before she would answer any of my questions.

Seeing her made me so happy every time and made my job very well worth it.”

Despite a very demanding yet rewarding career, Dr. Poosarla says she tries her best to maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising at least three times a week and eating a healthy diet. In addition, she makes it a priority to spend time with family and friends.

With parting advice, Dr. Poosarla reiterates the importance of getting annual mammograms starting at the age of 40. “It is so important to be compliant with screenings, as it can help with early detection of cancers,” Dr. Poosarla advises.

What resonated with me the most was the way my grandmother transformed into a stronger version of herself as she progressed through her treatments.

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ELIZABETH PARK MD Fellowship-Trained Breast Radiologist

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I genuinely am interested in what I do, I love my patient population, and I really enjoy teaching young residents how to be radiologists.

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r. Elizabeth Park first felt the calling to become a breast radiologist during her residency when one of the attending physicians told her about his wife, a breast radiologist who served on the front end of disease detection in breast imaging by performing screenings on asymptomatic patients. “He was a chest radiologist who mostly found disease once it had already made itself known with symptoms,” Dr. Park recalls. “As a breast radiologist, I love being able to find something hopefully small before it has a chance to spread into a more devastating disease.”

Dr. Park has met many inspiring patients along the way, adding she frequently admits to her husband that she knows she chose the right career and specialty for her, feeling that “aha” moment every day at the hospital. “I genuinely am interested in what I do, I love my patient population, and I really enjoy teaching young residents how to be radiologists,” she shares.

“While there are many tough, tough days in many different ways, it is satisfying to know that I ended up in the right place for my skills and interests, and hopefully I’m in the best place to give something good back to the world.”

When it comes to common health mistakes made by women, Dr. Park says it’s the accidental time lapse between mammograms that alarms her most — something she hopes to bring awareness to moving forward. “Before they know it, it has been two or more years, and they are so apologetic when they come in,” Dr. Park shares.

“Occasionally, some women are embarrassed that they have not received a mammogram in a while, and they will let that keep them from coming in.

We don’t judge you! While we advocate keeping up with your yearly schedule, we just want to keep you safe and well, so please don’t ever hesitate to come in for a mammogram.”

A married mother of two, Dr. Park says she loves the morning and the rituals she’s made. “I love letting the dogs out, a good cup of coffee, and getting everyone ready for work and school,” she says. “Exercise is generally reserved for days off and weekends, and if I can’t make a class, I have two energetic dogs who will always go with me on a walk or run!”

J E N N I FER SC A L IC I M D Fellowship-Trained Gynecologic Oncologist

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pon completing a fellowship in gynecologic oncology at the University of Virginia, Dr. Jennifer Scalici joined the Mitchell Cancer Institute in 2012, quickly developing a successful practice focusing on minimally invasive and robotic surgeries. In the nearly 10 years she has been with MCI, Dr. Scalici has undoubtedly encountered many women (young and old) who have impacted her in ways that far exceed the operating room.

A fierce advocate for her patients, Dr. Scalici’s daily motivators are the strong women she has the privilege to care for during the trying times and uncertainty that often come with a cancer diagnosis. “These women — many of whom have been the anchor for their families — are suddenly consumed by this diagnosis and how this impacts the people they love,” Dr. Scalici shares. “Their grace and perseverance through their journeys inspire me, and I see my role not simply as a surgeon or oncologist, but as a companion to shoulder their burden.”

Working with these courageous women daily, Dr. Scalici says her work has certainly affected her perspective on life and her relationships, thus deepening her empathy and compassion.

“I’m eternally grateful for the people I have in my life and the time I’ve been given with them,” she shares. “My job simultaneously exhausts and exhilarates; takes me to the highest peaks and the deepest depths,” she says. “But what I’ve learned through my work is that in order to appreciate the mountaintop, we have to experience the struggle in the climb.

My patients motivate me to be the best version of myself, to not be satisfied when I hit the mark, and to pick myself up and humbly try again when I miss.”

One patient in particular who impacted Dr. Scalici’s life was a young woman who had unexpectedly lost her mother just before her own diagnosis. “From the beginning, I felt like my purpose beyond the surgery I performed or the chemotherapy that I gave her was to simply be a constant presence for her during an unthinkable experience,” Dr. Scalici recalls. “Periodically on this journey when things were quiet, she would spontaneously check in on me: ‘Scalici, you okay? Gotta make sure you’re all good.’ Invariably, these unprompted check-ins came when I simply needed to be checked on. Things get tough. Loss is hard. We were both resilient humans, wired to keep pushing, but this work and her disease can test anyone’s ability to cope. ‘I’m okay,’ I’d say. ‘Thanks for checking; I needed that. You alright?’ Her response would give me chills. In the midst of dealing with the unimaginable and through the pain of surgery, the toxicity of chemo, and the anxiety of an unclear future, she’d reply, ‘You were on my mind today and something told me to check on you. Keep your head up.’ I kept her notes and I miss her check-ins, but she’s in my heart and with her mom.”

With the holistic nature of gynecologic oncology, being trained in both the surgical and medical management of these cancers allows Dr. Scalici to maintain a unique continuity of

cancer care with her patients. “The beautiful byproducts of these are connections with patients that repeatedly affirm to me that I am where I need to be,” Dr. Scalici shares.

Continually developing her expertise, Dr. Scalici and other members of the MCI gynecologic team conduct basic and translational research focusing on ovarian carcinogenesis and the development of a novel animal model of ovarian cancer with the goal of improving early detection and prevention strategies. And speaking of prevention strategies, Dr. Scalici wants every woman to be an advocate for her own health, as cervical cancer is preventable with a vaccine. “The evaluation of the effects of the HPV virus, even if identified in Stage 0, can result in procedures that have the potential to impact the future,” she warns. “Problems below the belt are traditionally not spoken of for a variety of reasons (embarrassment, shame, or simply attributing symptoms to other things). But when your body is telling you something is off, listen, and make us listen. Don’t be afraid to speak up and advocate for yourself.”

When it comes to being an advocate for her own health, Dr. Scalici’s favorite outlet from such a physically and emotionally exhausting job is getting outside and being active. Having grown up an athlete, she loves sharing her passion with her husband and kids. “We love to shoot around the backyard basketball hoop, throw the football around, and enjoy a nice challenging hike,” she says. “Sharing PB&Js creekside while teaching them to skip rocks lifts my soul.”

Their grace and perseverance through their journeys inspire me, and I see my role not simply as a surgeon or oncologist, but as a companion to shoulder their burden.

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LYNN COLLINS RN, BSN, OCN Infusion Nurse Manager

We get so much more from our patients than they get from us. Honestly, it means so much to me to mean so much to them.

You can’t beat the feeling.

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or Lynn Collins, nursing was the obvious career choice from an early age, having often pretended to bandage her dolls and pets as a child. “Truthfully, I never considered any other profession,” she admits. “I always wanted to help people by being a nurse.” With her oldest sister serving as a nurse and setting the example early on, Lynn says she is incredibly thankful her big sis was there to help her along her own nursing journey when the time came. “I had (and still have) the utmost respect for her,” Lynn shares.

A caregiver by nature, helping patients (many of whom are going through something new and frightening) is what Lynn says she feels privileged to do every day. “When you formally educate patients about their new treatments, their eyes are often wide with fear and fright,” Lynn shares.

“However, after you let them know what to expect, give them a tour, and answer all their questions, they are so relieved. I use this time to let them know they are among friends by telling them, ‘We are here for you.’ They are still fearful, but noticeably calmer and thankful you are there for support.” It’s this quality of patient care that makes Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) different from all the rest. “We know them by name, their grandchildren, and their hopes,” Lynn shares. “When you are there for someone going through the scariest time of his or her life, you form a special bond. We get so much more from our patients than they get from us. Honestly, it means so much to me to mean so much to them. You can’t beat the feeling,” Lynn beams.

Lynn strives to assure her patients that knowledge is power and insists you should never be fearful of finding out what is going on with your body. After all, the earlier a problem is addressed, the better the outcome. “I realize many coming to MCI are frightened, as this may well be the biggest challenge in their lifetime,” Lynn says.

“MCI is a place where you have an advocate, a friend — someone who really cares,” she shares. “So many have mixed feelings when they are finished with chemotherapy and it is time to ring the bell. Yes, they are ecstatic to have finished their treatment, but they are sad to leave their safe place. They have made friends with the other patients, the nurses, the front desk staff, and their physicians, and they realize that they going to miss seeing everyone on a regular basis. We care, and it shows.”

When she isn’t working, Lynn loves riding bicycles with her husband. “Our usual route is 22 miles,” she shares.

“We ride from March to November 1st, when the time changes. We use this time to travel and to enjoy nature and each other. We usually ride 2,000 miles every year!”

Director, USA Health Clinical Trials

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WENDY BLOUNT RN, MSN aving served Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) as Manager of the Division of Clinical Trials since 2016, Wendy Blount was recently named Director of USA Health Clinical Trials thanks to her dedication to strengthening infrastructure and processes at MCI, as well as her contributions to developing a Phase 1 clinical trials program and to establishing an infusion unit at MCI dedicated to the same. In this new role, Wendy oversees various activities and strengthens these trials across the healthcare system all while continuing to maintain the highest level of patient safety. With more than 130 clinical trials available across USA Health, Wendy’s work is extremely important to its overall integrity and success. Knowing she was always meant to work in healthcare, Wendy recalls having borne witness to her grandfather’s battle against kidney disease, and how this influenced her decision to pursue a career in the medical field. “My family (including myself at such a young age) surrounded and supported him in every way possible,” Wendy shares. “It was an experience that I will never forget. I feel that experience was the catalyst for my nursing journey,” she recalls.

Over the past 30 years of her nursing career, Wendy says it’s her patients who have continued to inspire and encourage her even when the days get hard, adding she particularly felt their support when she made the hard decision to change career paths five years ago to focus on research. “In my third year of this new journey I was reminded not only why I am a nurse, but I had a realization of why I was drawn to research,” she shares. “You see, a career-long, very close friend was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. It was devastating! She was a young, vibrant, healthy nurse,” she shares. “We had spent most of our careers together. I had the privilege of being there for her and her family as she battled cancer. I was able to support her and help her and her family understand treatment options, including available clinical trials.” Wendy walked every step of this journey with her friend, who unfortunately lost her battle with cancer 18 months after she was first diagnosed. “I look back on this journey and know that I had a purpose to help her and her family, not only as a supportive friend, but also by knowledge and understanding of cancer treatment options and research,” she shares.

It’s this same passion for research that helps Wendy and her team at MCI discover cutting-edge therapies to improve the quality of life for their patients, including enhancing existing treatments and the discovery of prevention methods. “When someone participates in a clinical trial, it gives them access to treatments that otherwise would not be available to them under standard medical care,” Wendy says. “So many times people seek care outside of our community unaware of what

is available in their own hometown. We are the region’s only academic research healthcare system.” In truth, MCI’s research extends far beyond their doors, as the entire healthcare system and the College of Medicine are involved in clinical trials that address multiple areas of health. “Why is this important for women to know?” Wendy asks. “Women are the backbone of our communities and families. They ensure their families seek medical care and need to know what their resources are.”

Prioritizing her own health, Wendy loves spending time outdoors, especially enjoying the beautiful bodies of water, beaches, and parks the Bay Area has to offer. And (as always), healthy eating habits and staying active play a large role in her health. “I go to Fit Body Boot Camp three to four times a week and walk regularly, and I do my best to always take the stairs,” she shares. “Growing up, my family always had a garden. My family still maintains a garden, and I love having seasonal fruits and vegetables available right outside my door because I enjoy cooking with clean, fresh ingredients as much as possible.”

Women are the backbone of our communities and families. They ensure their families seek medical care and need to know what their resources are.

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LEANNE BOLTON MS, RDN Clinical Dietitian

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smoothie filled with good-for-you ingredients like oats, flax seeds, spinach, protein powder, and almond milk. And for when hunger strikes during the day, she loves to keep healthy on-the-go snacks such as her favorite: bananas with peanut butter. “If you don’t enjoy eating them, then you likely won’t, so I tell patients to keep trying until they find a healthy snack they enjoy,” she shares. “I also always carry a refillable water bottle with me everywhere I go!” And when it comes to moving her body, LeAnne says adopting her dog earlier this year has ensured she gets in her daily dose of cardio. “Thanks, Bear,” she laughs.

Nutrition in healthcare tends to be an afterthought or reactive. Dietitians have been pushing for decades for a more proactive approach.

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graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she earned a Master’s in Nutrition Sciences, LeAnne Bolton says her inspiration for pursuing work with cancer patients has been (and continues to be) Nancy Brumfield, a dietitian certified in oncology who has been a superb mentor and a dear friend to LeAnne. “She took me under her wing as a grad student at UAB, and when given the opportunity to study under her at MCI, I pounced on the opportunity,” she recalls. “Nutrition in healthcare tends to be an afterthought or reactive. Dietitians have been pushing for decades for a more proactive approach. Throughout Nancy’s career, she pushed for nutrition to be on the forefront. Most notably, she established and expanded nutrition services for patients at Mitchell Cancer Institute. She is wise, tactful, and fabulously fun to work with. Thanks to Nancy, nutrition has a ‘seat at the table’ at MCI. I now serve as the dietitian at MCI, and I’m so thankful for that seat.”

Top-notch patient care is a priority for LeAnne when she works with a patient undergoing treatment, especially those that have head and neck cancer, as it severely impacts their nutrition status. LeAnne builds strong relationships with patients and their families, counseling them on nutritionrelated side effects of treatment, when these might occur, and how, together, they can relieve those symptoms. “As part of these discussions, I work to demystify the ‘feeding tube’ through educating the patient and their caregiver on the ‘what, why, and how’ of what is a scary topic for most,” LeAnne shares. “I admit, these discussions are the most challenging, but without a doubt the most rewarding. The side effects from treatment can be brutal, so I try to check in on these patients at least once a week — sometimes more. I’ve learned that caregivers need to be checked in on, encouraged, and comforted just as much as patients do, so the relationships I build with caregivers is often as strong as those built with patients.”

As often happens, the outcome of her patients’ treatments isn’t always what they hoped, sometimes leading to devastating loss. Such was the case when LeAnne lost a two-time cancer survivor to head and neck cancer. “About a week after his passing, I received a letter from his wife, his caregiver,” LeAnne recalls. “She thanked me for taking care of her husband and for ensuring he had a ‘full belly of food’ on his journey to Heaven. I was awestruck by her thoughtful words and kindness, and still am. A full belly for Heaven… what more can anyone hope for?” LeAnne imparts. “Cancer is tough. Working with cancer patients is tough. But knowing that I can help make the toughest experience most people go through just the slightest bit easier makes all the long, hard days worthwhile.”

Putting her nutrition advice to use in her own routine, LeAnne shares in order to stay focused at work she never leaves home without eating a hearty breakfast, usually opting for a quick

Fellowship-Trained Breast Surgical Oncologist

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RACHEL HUNTER MD erving both Mobile and Fairhope, Dr. Rachel Hunter specializes in all things breast care — both benign breast disease and breast cancer surgery — all while offering cutting edge technology and the most up-to-date surgical options for women in the area. What initially called Dr. Hunter to the medical field? Well, she says it was something she has always felt drawn to since she was a little girl thanks to the encouragement of her parents who pushed her to pursue her dreams (no matter how hard the journey might seem). “My parents have instilled in me a hard work ethic that has carried me through my training and on into my professional career,” Dr. Hunter says. “They were always encouraging and never made me feel like I was restricted to certain activities or professions because I was a female, which proved instrumental in my pursuit of becoming a surgeon.”

Despite knowing she would someday be in the medical field in some capacity, it wasn’t until her breast surgery rotation during her residency that she experienced the most clarity. “During my rotation it was evident early on that being a breast surgeon was my calling,” she recalls. “I love helping and empowering other women to overcome a diagnosis that truly does not define them.”

When it comes to what Dr. Hunter wishes more Bay Area women knew, she says it’s simple: You don’t have to go far to receive cutting-edge treatment for breast cancer. With a multidisciplinary team on hand to offer state-of-the-art care for breast cancer and women’s health, MCI is able to provide everything patients need to achieve great outcomes, from screening and diagnostic workups to medical and surgical intervention.

“Because we are an academic institution, we stay up to date on the latest research in the field and are able to offer more clinical trials than other groups in our region,” Dr. Hunter shares.

As a bit of last-minute wisdom, Dr. Hunter shares: “When it comes to screening mammograms and women’s health, patients need to make their health an annual priority. Even missing one year of screening can be detrimental. In general, the earlier we catch breast cancers, the easier they are to treat, and the chance for cure is higher.”

In her own life, Dr. Hunter strives to be a strong-willed, independent woman who doesn’t just survive, but thrives.

In order to live her best life, Dr. Hunter loves fitting in a workout class at Orangetheory or running to help release her endorphins. Dr. Hunter says she also has an amazing support system of friends and family to thank for keeping her sane and grounded during such an emotionally and physically taxing career. “I love spending time with my loved ones,

including my dog Remi (a sweet 15 lb. cockapoo),” she enthuses. “We love trying new restaurants, going to concerts, hiking, riding bikes, or fishing. I’m a big morning person as well, so starting off my day with some ‘me time’ to work out, eat a good breakfast, and spend some time with my dog and husband before going into work puts me in a good mindset.”

Looking towards the future, Dr. Hunter and her husband, Dr. John Hunter (a colorectal surgeon), are looking forward to the next exciting step in their lives: they’re expecting their first child! We wish them all the best in this new chapter!

I love helping and empowering other women to overcome a diagnosis that truly does not define them.

13 MCI Spring Special

CASSIE GURGANUS MS, CGC

A

Board-Certified Genetic Counselor

s the region’s only BoardCertified Genetic Counselor, Cassie Gurganus changes the lives of her cancer patients every day, giving those with personal or family histories of cancer the vital counseling they need. Cassie says her own personal family history is what led her down this particular career path, as both her grandfather and greatgrandfather developed lung cancer due to smoking, with her grandfather eventually developing bladder cancer as well. “From a young age I saw how they struggled and fought with cancer, and I always told myself and my family that I was going to cure cancer,” Cassie recalls.

Undoubtedly, Cassie’s work touches the lives of many patients. One such patient was a man who had a strong family history of prostate cancer.

With Cassie’s expertise she was able to identify a mutation in the BRCA2 gene, which increases the risk for breast cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, and melanoma. “I

was then able to see his adult children, and one son and one daughter were also found to have the BRCA2 mutation.

We were then able to get her set up for increased breast cancer screenings, and I believe she elected to have a hysterectomy/oophorectomy as well to reduce her ovarian cancer risk. His son will start prostate cancer screening at an earlier age and will also have clinical breast exams,” Cassie shares.

“It is so rewarding to know that I made a difference in this patient’s life and the lives of his family members. By finding this genetic mutation and setting up the increased screening, we can hopefully prevent cancer or catch it early, leading to better outcomes and quality of life.”

Though genetic testing can help identify potential diagnoses, Cassie wants her patients to know that even if you have a mutation, you don’t always have to undergo preventative surgery.

“There are many options out there for cancer surveillance and prevention, particularly for breast cancer,” Cassie advises. “Our recommendations for

BRITTNEY CARDEN PHARMD On-site Oncology Specialty Pharmacy Manager

H

aving always been a “people person,” Brittney Carden had felt the calling to the pharmacy field from a young age as she watched her beloved Paw-paw battle lung cancer. “My grandfather was a long time smoker who fortunately stopped smoking when I was born,” Brittney recalls. “However, he was diagnosed with lung cancer 13 years later on his 55th birthday. At 6’4, 240 pounds, he weighed only 86 pounds 15 months later when he died. Seeing him go through surgery, radiation, and treatments with many different experimental medications (all of which would ultimately fail) made me passionate about one day working in oncology. I wanted to make a difference for even just one person, because I would give anything for my Paw-paw to still be here.” Brittney ultimately chose pharmacy, as it is multifaceted combining science, health care, USAMCI.com

computer technology, business, math, and counseling.

When it comes to her own health, Brittney says exercising and eating healthy are extremely important to her. “I work out at Orangetheory every morning at 5 a.m. I love to finish my workout early so that I have no excuses to miss it,” Brittney states. “Working out early while my children are still asleep also allows me to not miss out on spending time with them. I also have a group of friends with whom I run every Saturday morning.”

As a word of advice, Brittney shares how important preventative screenings are for women, as many types of cancer can be detected in their early stages thanks to these screenings and tests. She hopes you never have a need to visit her pharmacy, but if you do find yourself in need of cancer treatment, rest assured that Brittney (and all of MCI) are here for you.

cancer surveillance depend on many factors: patient preference, family history, which specific gene the patient has a mutation in (if any; the patient may be negative!), etc. There is no onesize-fits-all answer.”

THROUGH THE AGES: A WOMAN’S GUIDE TO HEALTH The physicians and healthcare providers at Mitchell Cancer Institute are passionate about life-saving screenings and tests that can mean the difference between a mild diagnosis and a life-threatening disease for their patients. Prevention is key for women of every age. Fighting disease and maintaining optimal health should be our daily goal. Start now and enjoy the benefits!

20+ —Secure providers: General Practitioner, Gynecologist, Dermatologist — 8+ Hours of sleep a night — Sunscreen daily + annual skin cancer exam — Develop an exercise plan with a variety of exercises — Develop a heart healthy diet — Develop mindfulness practices for mental health + stress — Flu shot — Physical exam: blood pressure screenings — Gynecologic exam: breast self-exam, pap test, HPV test

30+

40+

— 8+ Hours of sleep a night — Sunscreen daily + annual skin cancer exam — Maintain exercise routine — Maintain heart healthy diet — Maintain mindfulness practices for mental health + stress — Flu shot — Physical exam: blood pressure screenings + cholesterol screenings — Gynecologic exam: breast self-exam, clinical exam, pap test, HPV test

50+ — 8+ Hours of sleep a night — Sunscreen daily + annual skin cancer exam — Maintain exercise routine — Maintain heart healthy diet — Maintain mindfulness practices for mental health + stress — Flu shot — Physical exam: blood pressure screenings + cholesterol screenings — Gynecologic exam: breast self-exam, clinical exam, pap test, HPV test — Mammogram — Eye Exam — Colonoscopy —Bone Density Test

— 8+ Hours of sleep a night — Sunscreen daily + annual skin cancer exam — Maintain exercise routine — Maintain heart healthy diet — Maintain mindfulness practices for mental health + stress — Flu shot — Physical exam: blood pressure screenings + cholesterol screenings — Gynecologic exam: breast self-exam, clinical exam, pap test, HPV test — Mammogram — Eye Exam

60+ — 8+ Hours of sleep a night — Sunscreen daily + annual skin cancer exam — Maintain exercise routine — Maintain heart healthy diet — Maintain mindfulness practices for mental health + stress — Flu shot — Physical exam: blood pressure screenings + cholesterol screenings — Gynecologic exam: breast self-exam, clinical exam, pap test, HPV test — Mammogram — Eye Exam — Colonoscopy —Bone Density Test 15 MCI Spring Special

What if red light helped us find cancer cells?

At USA Health, our surgeons are testing new investigational technology that illuminates cancer cells in the breast.

Find out how academic medicine can make a difference for you through clinical trials and breast cancer treatment options.

Request an appointment by calling 251-410-1010.