Hope - Cancer Publication by Karmanos, October 2022

BEAT CANCER, THEN

. NOT DEFINING. C ANCER IS A BEGINNING

In the fight against cancer, you want ever y advantage to beat the disease There is no bigger advantage than having the exper ts at Karmanos Cancer Institute in your corner.

As the number one preferred cancer treatment provider in Michigan, we give you access to more than 250 promising new treatments found only at Karmanos. We give you your best chance for ward.

TO OUR COMMUNITY,

The strides we have taken this year presented many accomplishments. We are not only expanding access to world-class cancer care, but we are making cancer care a better experience for our patients. Throughout 2022, we’ve reached many milestones, including opening our newest cancer clinic, Karmanos Cancer Institute at The Toledo Clinic Cancer Center in Maumee, Ohio. This is our first location outside of Michigan.

In southeast Michigan, construction is complete in the four-phase expansion project at Karmanos’ Lawrence and Idell Weisberg Cancer Center in Farmington Hills. This expansion opens the door for more patients in Metro Detroit to receive breakthrough treatments in a comfortable space and heal with on-site supportive programming. Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Greater Lansing also opened a new facility in 2022 with state-of-the-art radiation oncology services, located next to a brand-new hospital in East Lansing. You’ll get a glimpse of these fantastic, patient-centered facilities in this issue of Hope Magazine.

Our patients are always accomplishing goals, and we are excited to celebrate them in this edition. Each patient we have highlighted in this issue exemplifies the message, “Cancer is a Beginning” – a start of a new journey that is life-altering, not defining. The cover story features sarcoma survivor Carl Pfadt, his wife Anna and their adorable baby boy. Outstanding care provided by Karmanos specialists put the couple’s life goals top of mind as they individualized Carl’s treatment plan.

Then there is Elfia Blake, who is among the first patients to begin and finish treatment at the new cancer center in Maumee. She shares the support she received from her cancer care team as she dealt with losing loved ones during her cancer journey. Throat cancer survivor Dan Wega also lost a close loved one before his first diagnosis. Still, his determination, coupled with the support he received from his care team, led him to defeat cancer twice. The actions of a network-wide genetics program helped Genesee County sisters Sandra Feldhahn and Susan Calandri understand their chances of developing cancer. Genetic testing answered many questions about Sandra’s diagnosis, and Karmanos’ genetic counselors are educating the sisters on how they can prevent future diseases.

It is a pleasure to serve our community, bring awareness and celebrate with our patients. We thank you for your support and for encouraging our patients to envision a life beyond cancer.

From all of us at Karmanos Cancer Institute

CARL PFADT

Sarcoma survivor and wife have first baby after treatment that could have led to infertility

When choosing a hospital after receiving a cancer diagnosis, it’s important to select one with expertise in treating your specific cancer and helping you achieve your goals after treatment.

As Carl Pfadt would attest, his choice to seek treatment at the Karmanos Cancer Center in Detroit has made all the difference for him and his growing family. Pfadt and his wife welcomed a baby boy in April thanks to an integral conversation they had with his orthopedic oncologist before starting his treatment plan.

Pfadt’s cancer journey began in August 2019 when doctors diagnosed him with an undifferentiated pleomorphic soft tissue sarcoma in his right leg.

Soft tissue sarcomas affect the body’s connective tissue and occur in less than one percent of all cancer diagnoses. Patients are typically diagnosed in their 20s and 30s. Pfadt was 32.

Highly treatable when caught early, chemotherapy is often part of soft tissue sarcoma treatments. However, this treatment can also lead to infertility.

Carl (middle) and Anna Pfadt (right) welcomed their first child, Leo (left), in April 2022.

“Chemotherapy is toxic to the gonads, which produce sperm in men,” said Alysia Kemp, M.D., leader of the Sarcoma Multidisciplinary Team at Karmanos. “Because patients often cannot produce sperm after receiving certain types of chemotherapy, we refer patients to a fertility specialist before beginning treatment. The chances of having children are good for patients who preserve their sperm before receiving chemotherapy.”

Carl and his wife, Anna Pfadt, had been married for less than a year when he was diagnosed. They discussed their options with Dr. Kemp and decided to see a fertility specialist.

“We had been open to the possibility of having children when we got married,” Pfadt said. “Realizing our life would be changing sooner than anticipated due to the cancer diagnosis put a renewed focus on it. We decided to give ourselves options. We wanted to at least try to have a child of our own, so I made appointments with a fertility specialist to begin banking material before treatment.”

Karmanos cancer specialists plan treatment with quality of life after cancer in mind

After two rounds of chemotherapy and five weeks of radiation, he underwent surgery in February 2020. His surgeon removed 6.5 pounds of tumor and surrounding tissue. Shortly after his surgery, he began physical therapy to improve his mobility.

Today, Pfadt is not only cancer-free and back to performing low-impact exercises with orthotic support, but he’s also enjoying being a new father. Leo is the couple’s first child.

“Anna and I are thrilled,” Pfadt said. “We’ve been very fortunate in how things played out. I’m happy and healthy and have a great family.

“Cancer doesn’t define me. I’m not focusing on it. I have other new challenges: being a good husband, father, colleague and neighbor. I’m writing my life story; cancer was just part of a previous chapter.”

Pfadt continues to see Dr. Kemp for follow-up exams every four months. She and the Karmanos staff are thrilled about his post-cancer life.

“Carl completed his treatments and is doing wonderfully,” Dr. Kemp said. “He’s a super nice person and the staff looks forward to seeing him when he comes in for routine checkups. We’re excited to see him enjoying life and focusing on his little boy.”

Dr. Kemp added that Pfadt’s story highlights the importance of talking with your doctor about your personal life goals before beginning cancer treatment.

“It’s important to not just focus on cancer, but to look past the diagnosis,” Dr. Kemp said. “Since Karmanos is a comprehensive cancer center with multidisciplinary teams that work closely to develop individualized treatment plans,

we focus on treating cancer aggressively while keeping each patient’s personal goals in mind. Patients shouldn’t be afraid to advocate for themselves and discuss their life goals with their doctors. Treatment involves more than just cancer.”

Pfadt’s cancer journey is a great example of how a cancer patient can continue life during and after treatment. By communicating with Dr. Kemp, he was able to achieve many of his personal goals, including completing the Detroit Free Press Half Marathon in October 2020.

Looking into the future, the Pfadts have the option to continue expanding their family.

“It would be nice if Leo had at least one more sibling,” Carl Pfadt added. “Right now, we’re excited to help our little one grow.”

If you or someone you love has received a cancer diagnosis, it’s important to seek an evaluation from cancer experts before beginning treatment. Call 1-800-KARMANOS (1-800-527-6266) for more information or to make an appointment.

Alysia Kemp, M.D.

Carl Pfadt takes a selfie with his son Leo.

HEALING, EXPANDING: THE NEWLY RENOVATED FARMINGTON HILLS CLINIC

Patients, physicians and staff are excited to utilize new areas of the Weisberg Cancer Center in Farmington Hills now that the expansion and renovations are complete (See image on page 7). Keeping the slogan of “Caring, Healing, Expanding” in mind, the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute has been transforming this location to meet the needs of the community. With achieving this final phase, Karmanos patients in Oakland County now have a conveniently located, full-service outpatient oncology center.

“Our Farmington Hills facility is a satellite of our Detroit headquarters so we want to offer as many of the same services and treatments as possible,” said Jordan Maier, M.D., medical director of the Weisberg Cancer Center. “The expansion has also allowed us to better address the emotional aspect of patient care by providing larger areas for comfort and support. We thank the city of Farmington Hills, businesses and residential neighbors surrounding our center for their patience and recognition of the need for comprehensive cancer care in their community.”

The expansion and renovation at the Weisberg Cancer Center include:

• New imaging equipment and expanded spaces

3-D mammography

Ultrasound

– X-ray

• A women’s corridor

• An interventional radiology suite

• A newly designed radiation oncology suite

• A brand-new infusion center

• State-of-the-art nuclear medicine, including a gamma camera

• Bone density scanning

• A brand-new procedure suite

• Additional, large exam rooms

• More expanded dressing rooms

• New retail pharmacy space and services

• Expanded lobby and wait areas

• Addition of a snack and nourishment area

• An expanded healing arts space

• More private treatment areas

• Massage therapy area

• New entryway canopy and front door

“Our patients can now come to our clinic in Farmington Hills and have many of the services they need under one roof,” said Karen Baranowski, RN, MSN, director of ambulatory operations at Weisberg. “Whether they need their blood drawn, imaging, screening, treatment options, to talk to someone about how their treatment is going, or connect with others going through cancer treatment in a creative way — we are providing this and so much more, conveniently for our patients. We’re continually getting great feedback on the design and feel of the new setting.”

The new renovations mimic the original design of a chalet, carrying the features of this Swiss-inspired architecture design throughout the space to create a sense of tranquility and put patients at ease. Constructed and carried out in four phases, patients saw the building transform and come to life as they continued their treatment and services.

“We planned the renovations and additions of this project around our patient care. We did not want to interrupt healing,” explained Suzanne Nolte, project manager for the expansion. “We started with the first project in 2018, upgrading the physical plan of the building while adding treatment machines like our Leksell Gamma Knife® Icon*. We had a great team that put our patients first while working to give them a better cancer care experience. Now patients have a treatment center that is four times as big and offers so much more to benefit their care.”

Karmanos established a presence in Oakland County with the opening of the now Weisberg Cancer Center in 2001 and quickly outgrew its capacity. Understanding the need for more services in Farmington Hills, Karmanos increased the clinic’s footprint from 17,700 square feet to nearly 65,000.

Karmanos Cancer Institute would like to thank its partners who have made this project possible, including the city of Farmington Hills, Kramer Management Group, Ghafari Associates and Roncelli, Inc.

Learn more about what Weisberg offers Karmanos patients at karmanos.org/farmingtonhills.

*Gamma Knife is a precise stereotactic radiosurgery used to treat malignant and benign brain tumors. This treatment is only available at Karmanos’ Farmington Hills location.

KARMANOS CELEBRATES GROWTH IN MICHIGAN & BEYOND

KARMANOS’ FARMINGTON HILLS LOCATION EXPANSION COMPLETES

The Weisberg Cancer Center in Farmington Hills now offers patients a full-service outpatient experience with new clinic space and 17 expanded exam rooms, 21 infusion bays, additional imaging services, a women’s corridor, pharmacy, renovated lobby and waiting spaces, a snack bar for patients, massage therapy, a space for healing arts and more. This four-phase expansion project started in 2019 and has added more natural light and a healing environment for patients.

KARMANOS NOW SERVING NORTHWEST OHIO

The first of its kind outside of Michigan, the Karmanos Cancer Institute at The Toledo Clinic Cancer Center in Maumee, Ohio opened in April 2022. Karmanos operates the radiation oncology services at this innovative facility, featuring the latest in linear accelerator radiation therapy technology, a large home-feel infusion center with natural lighting, imaging services, pharmacy, and greenery and imagery from around the Toledo area giving patients a more relaxed, natural and comforting feeling when receiving treatment. Patients also have access to clinical trials exclusive to Karmanos.

KARMANOS IS EXPANDING IN FLINT

A $46 million project is underway at Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Flint and the McLaren Proton Therapy Center, which will offer more comprehensive cancer services at one joined location, as well as give more patients access to proton therapy treatments. A near 14 thousand-square-foot-vertical expansion will be added to the cancer center to create a comprehensive multi-specialty center on the second floor and just over seven thousand-square-feet will be added to the proton therapy center featuring a third treatment vault to treat more patients. This project is expected to complete in 2023.

LANSING’S NEW CANCER CENTER

In late February 2022, the brand-new Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Greater Lansing opened at the new McLaren Greater Lansing campus, adjacent to Michigan State University. This state-of-the-art center offers 38 infusion bays with natural lighting and comfort for patients, 23 exam rooms, the latest in radiation therapy technology, women’s center and boutique, healing arts space, calming artwork of area landscapes, and natural light and greenery throughout the building to give patients a peaceful feeling during treatment.

The above rendering reflects the finished construction of the building. To see finished photos of the expansion, visit karmanos.org/farmingtonhills

THE DESIGNATION THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Karmanos Cancer Institute is the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center in Metro Detroit and one of just 53 centers of its kind in the United States. To receive this designation, a hospital must demonstrate expertise in laboratory, clinical and population-based research. Hospitals must also provide early-phase clinical trials and conduct community outreach and educational activities. This means patients can access treatments exclusive to Karmanos as well as cancer prevention programs and multidisciplinary teams of cancer specialists — a comprehensive approach you cannot find at a community hospital.

IS THERE A RIGHT TIME TO SCHEDULE CANCER SCREENINGS?

Saying it is not the right time to go to the doctor may be convenient in our busy lives. It can also be a way to put off paying attention to our health.

When it comes to cancer screenings, “Make that phone call and get it done,” said Amy Legghio, CNP, OCN, nurse practitioner at Karmanos Cancer Institute’s Women’s Wellness Clinic in Detroit. “Don’t put it off. There’s never a good time to do any of it – just do it.”

Early detection of cancer is a powerful tool in fighting the disease. When it comes to cancer, there are guidelines for every test that will help you and your health care provider determine when you should begin screening. The types of cancer screenings vary for men and women.

A referral is not needed to be seen for screening at Karmanos. However, if you have a primary care provider, Karmanos specialists will work together to ensure you receive the screening you need.

To find out more about the Cancer Screening and Prevention Program at Karmanos, visit karmanos.org/cancerscreening.

Amy Legghio, CNP, OCN, nurse practitioner at Karmanos Cancer Institute’s Women’s Wellness Clinic in Detroit.

Make that phone call and get it done. Don’t put it off. There’s never a good time to do any of it – just do it.

”

ELFIA BLAKE: AMONG ONE OF THE FIRST PATIENTS IN MAUMEE

Advanced care, thoughtful treatment made the difference for Ohio breast cancer survivor

Elfia Blake of Wauseon, Ohio is among the first patients to complete treatment at the new Karmanos Cancer Institute at The Toledo Clinic Cancer Center in Maumee.

Receiving great care is essential for patients going through cancer treatment. For Elfia Blake, the staff at Karmanos Cancer Institute at The Toledo Clinic Cancer Center, including one radiation oncology technologist named Nick, went above and beyond during her treatment. 68-year-old Blake from Wauseon, Ohio underwent radiation therapy for Stage 1 breast cancer at the new Karmanos location in Maumee, about 10 miles southwest of Toledo.

No Time To Think

In the beginning of 2021, Blake was feeling great, but by the end of the year, that no longer was the case. An anomaly in her left breast was detected on her yearly mammogram in November at The Toledo Clinic. A biopsy at McLaren St. Luke’s, also in Maumee, revealed invasive ductal carcinoma. Blake was surprised to learn the cancer was in her left breast. She was diagnosed in her 40s with fibrocystic breast disease in her right breast, so she figured her right breast would be where cancer would form. Fibrocystic

breast disease is a condition that can include fibroids and cysts but does not increase the likelihood of cancer.

“Fibrocystic breast disease is not cancerous, but it can make breast cancer a bit harder to detect,” said Faheem Ahmad, M.D., Blake’s radiation oncologist at the Karmanos location in Maumee. “When a woman has this condition, she usually has firm or rubbery scar-like tissue, thickened tissue, swelling, tenderness, pain and lumps.”

It is important for women to know what their normal breasts feel like — especially if they have benign cysts or fibroids. In Blake’s case, she knows if the fibroids make her breast feel sensitive or tender, it is a sign that she needs to cut back on her caffeine intake. Generally, women should begin routine mammography screening at age 40, sometimes earlier. The age women should start screening for breast cancer varies for each woman and depends on many factors, including family health history. These routine appointments are essential — it is one way how specialists catch breast cancer early.

“Routine mammography allows for early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer. When cancers are found in early stages, the treatment is much less extensive and toxic, and the cure rates are much higher,” said Dr. Ahmad. Blake learned her biopsy results in mid-December. These test results came just two days after her brother, Luke Moreno, died at age 57. He battled prostate cancer for almost two years.

“I was upset,” she said of learning the results. “It was scary.” Breast cancer is not Blake’s first cancer diagnosis. About 20 years ago, she was diagnosed with polycythemia vera. This blood cancer begins in the bone marrow and causes the blood to become thickened from too many red blood cells. She still takes a chemotherapy drug and has phlebotomies (removal of a large volume of blood) to keep the disease under control.

On top of her brother’s death, this new cancer diagnosis was a lot to deal with at once.

“I hardly had time to think about it,” Blake said of her health concerns. She was driving back and forth from her home to Chicago, where Moreno lived, taking on more family responsibilities and planning her brother’s memorial service.

Despite her increased commitments, Blake met with a general surgeon at McLaren St. Luke’s. On that January day, she went into her appointment prepared to have a mastectomy, a surgery to remove the entire breast.

“I was going to remove my breast,” she said. “I didn’t want to go through this again.”

After talking with the surgeon, Blake decided to get a lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery to remove the tumor), followed by radiation therapy treatments. Her medical oncologist at The Toledo Clinic Cancer Center in Maumee, who Blake sees for treatment of her polycythemia vera, referred her to Dr. Ahmad at Karmanos, located at the same facility.

During her series of 21 treatments, Elfia’s best friend Cathy Gerken died of uterine cancer that had spread to her spleen. She was just 68 years old. Blake and Gerken had been friends for 52 years after meeting in a vocational education class on childhood development.

Comfort to Keep Fighting

Blake appreciates the comfort she received from the Karmanos staff before and after her best friend’s death. She says Nick was available to help her get on and off the treatment couch daily. When Gerken died, Blake came to her appointment heartbroken. Nick comforted her as her emotions and tears spilled over.

According to Blake, Nick is not the exception at the cancer center — he’s the norm.

“It was wonderful,” Blake said. “Even the receptionist was upbeat every day.”

Blake was one of the first radiation therapy patients at the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Maumee; she completed her treatments in June 2022. Specialists began treating patients at this new location in April 2022. In partnership with The Toledo Clinic, Karmanos provides radiation oncology services at the new facility with the state-of-the-art Varian TrueBeam™ linear accelerator featuring HyperArc™ and RapidArc™ capabilities. This image-guided machine precisely targets cancer while sparing surrounding

tissue and vital organs. This ability to limit exposure of X-rays to healthy tissue benefits patients such as Blake with left-sided breast cancer. By targeting the tumor precisely, clinicians can avoid treating the heart, one of the most vital organs in the human body.

“We used the latest Varian TrueBeam™ technology, including deep inspiration breath holding techniques to treat her left-sided breast cancer while providing Mrs. Blake heart sparing therapy,” Dr. Ahmad explained. “I am proud to say she’s doing great following her radiation treatments.”

From her home in Wauseon, Maumee is about 30 miles east on Interstates 80 and 90. Blake said the 30-to-40-minute drive was closer and had less traffic than driving to Toledo.

Impressed by her cancer treatment and accommodations from staff, Blake has told “her ladies” about her experience at Karmanos. “Her ladies” are a group of women that were part of the senior fitness classes Blake taught for 12 years at a local church in Napoleon, Ohio. She keeps in touch with the group regularly.

Though Blake faced many challenges during her breast cancer journey, she said the advanced cancer care from Karmanos and the thoughtful treatment she received from the team made a world of difference.

If you or a loved one is diagnosed with breast cancer, it is important to see a specialist dedicated to treating this disease. Learn more about breast cancer, mammography screenings, treatment options available at Karmanos and how to request an appointment at karmanos.org

Blake rings the Victory Bell after finishing her last radiation therapy treatment for breast cancer in June.

Blake (left) takes a photo with her late brother, Luke Moreno (middle), and sister (right).

Faheem Ahmad, M.D.

Should you be screened for cancer?

Women ages 4 0+

Women should begin having annual mammograms at age 4 0 or earlier if you have a family history of cancer.

Are you a smoker?

If you are a current or former smoker age 5 0-8 0 with at least 20-pack/year smoking history, you should consider screening.

MAMMOGRAPHY

People ages 21- 6 5

Certain risk factors increase the risk of getting cervical cancer like family history, smoking, medical history and long-term use of contraceptives.

LUNG CANCER SCREENING

People ages 4 5+

Begin screening at age 45 and continue every 10 years. Those at an increased risk should screen sooner and more often.

CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING

COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING

The Cancer Genetic Counseling Service helps determine cancer risk. This service is helpful to anyone who has anxiety and/or concern about their risk of cancer due to several relatives with the same or related cancers, a personal/family history of a rare or unusual cancer, a relative with more than one type of cancer or a personal/family history of cancer under the age of 50.

For more information and to schedule your appointment, call 1-8 00-KAR MANOS, scan the QR code to the right or visit Karmanos.org/c ancerscreening

Do you have a family history of c ancer?

Karmanos,

prostate cancer

Hundreds of cancer survivors received the opportunity to enjoy a night out at the ballpark with the Detroit Tigers this year. The 10th Annual Pink Out the Park game took place May 13 against the Baltimore Orioles (4-2) and the second Annual Prostate Cancer Awareness Night happened July 25 against the San Diego Padres (12-4). The Tigers dominated both game series, with a sweep against the Orioles and winning two games to one against the Padres. Survivors honored during the games were:

Pink Out the Park

Tiffany Bentley - 6

Ivy Cyrs - 5

Kassandra Harris - 7

Kelly Klamer - 1

Joanne Ortolan - 10

Prostate Cancer Awareness Night

Brian Ake - 3

Abraham Allen - <1

Gary Barrett - 1

Steven Brandt - 12

Michael Britt - <1

Kenneth Crandall - 5

Pat Deriemacker - 7

Timothy Gilbert, Sr. - 4½

Bill Happel - <1

Fred Hardy - 15

Bill Harris - 14

Timothy O’Neill - 10½

Joe Schubert - 1

Eugene Urcan - 2

Find out how you can support Karmanos research by visiting karmanos.org/give

Visit karmanos.org at the start of the 2023 baseball season for more information on how you can experience the next cancer awareness themed night with the Detroit Tigers.

The honored survivors listed above are patients of Karmanos throughout the McLaren Health Care system in Michigan and Ohio. Karmanos and McLaren survivors received the opportunity to tell their stories and emphasize the importance of cancer screenings and prevention. Fans also received the opportunity to support cancer research with a donation to Karmanos.

(- # = years of survivorship)

UPCOMING KARMANOS

October

| 12th Annual Cancer Symposium

In-person (Detroit, Flint and Lansing) and virtually. Visit karmanos.org/cancersymposium

| Free Breast Cancer Screening

Bay City

| Hockey Fights Cancer with the Flint Firebirds

Flint

| Karmanos Cancer Institute’s Screening Saves:

Screening and Education Event

Detroit

karmanos.org/screeningsaves

American Cancer Society Freshstart

Cessation Program

Bay City

Class #1

American Cancer Society Freshstart

Cessation Program

Bay City

Health Equity Book Club

Zoom

Class

The list above does not include all planned events.

visit karmanos.org/karmanosevents for updates.

Looking for ways to cope with cancer? Karmanos offers general and specific cancer support groups (for patients, survivors, their family, friends and caregivers), art and music therapy sessions, yoga, tai chi, meditation sessions, and more!

karmanos.org to view the patient and support services available.

DAN WEGA

Dan Wega (right) and his wife (left) after completing a half marathon in Brooklyn, New York in October 2021.

Losing a loved one to cancer can affect your perspective on life. Dan Wega’s story is one of survival, determination and friendship, despite his loss and cancer diagnoses. He exemplifies the power of a “don’t-quit” attitude while operating a family business in Royal Oak.

Wega returned to Michigan in the spring of 2015 to be with his older brother who was battling liver cancer. Shortly after his brother passed, Wega learned he had HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer, also known as throat cancer.

Wega had a sore throat for almost a year before his first diagnosis. He was evaluated by multiple health care providers and was prescribed antibiotics and other medications without improvement. When none of that worked, he saw an ear, nose and throat specialist. Surgery was planned for what the

specialist thought was a deviated septum. However, one week before his scheduled surgery, Wega discovered a lump in his neck.

Based on a friend’s advice, he decided to go to the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit.

Cancer care often requires a team of specialists, also known as a multidisciplinary team (MDT) at Karmanos. This was the case when it came to Wega’s treatment for oropharyngeal cancer. Wega’s team of physicians included medical oncologist and leader of the Head and Neck Oncology MDT, Ammar Sukari, M.D., surgical oncologist George Yoo, M.D., FACS and radiation oncologist Harold Kim, M.D. Together, Drs. Sukari, Yoo and Kim, along with specialized MDT members, created an individualized treatment plan for Wega consisting of surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Royal Oak entrepreneur shows the power of perseverance, partnership and positivity

Business owner has two-time cancer victory after losing his brother to cancer

“I went through 35 rounds of radiation and three rounds of chemotherapy,” Wega said.

HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer mostly affects men ages 45-65. The primary symptom is a lump or mass in the neck. Some patients may experience difficulty swallowing and may have vocal hoarseness or pain in the ear.

“This kind of cancer is curable,” said Dr. Sukari. “The cure rate is 80 to 95 percent.”

Wega had another diagnosis two years after achieving a complete response to oropharyngeal cancer treatment. During a routine follow-up in 2017, imaging showed small nodules on his lungs. A biopsy revealed metastatic oropharyngeal cancer, suggesting that his throat cancer had returned.

Dr. Sukari then offered Wega a new type of therapy that he was eligible for. It was an immunotherapy combination available through a Phase-I clinical trial. Within a few months his lung metastases resolved. Wega remained on the clinical trial for almost two years. His treatment was then discontinued because he no longer had evidence of cancer.

“Mr. Wega’s response to the treatment was a miracle. It is unusual to achieve durable and complete response for Stage 4 head and neck cancer,” explained Dr. Sukari.

Wega is thankful for the care he received at Karmanos. He has now been cancer free for over three years.

“The team at Karmanos saved my life twice,” said Wega. “The whole staff is amazing. I don’t think I would be alive – I don’t

think I would have had the same result elsewhere. I believe in Karmanos’ system, and the results speak for themselves.”

Wega’s story is different from other patients treated for HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer, especially since he developed metastatic lung cancer following his initial treatment.

“What’s unique about Mr. Wega is that he unfortunately relapsed,” explained Dr. Sukari. “Even though the chances for his oropharyngeal cancer to be cured were high, he did fall into a small portion of patients with this cancer who may relapse after receiving the standard therapy.

“He has a very encouraging story. It’s a success story of a ‘don’t-quit’ attitude, science and new therapies. Mr. Wega’s story speaks to the advancement of medicine.”

It also speaks to the power of an experienced, caring medical team working in partnership with patients to give them their best chance to survive and thrive.

“Dan is raising his family, working full time and his business is booming,” said Dr. Sukari. “We keep giving him the good news and I hope to keep it that way.”

“I don’t want to be a victim of the disease. I don’t let it take over or control me. I think my attitude has been a big help and the attitudes of the doctors and nurses at Karmanos. They are supportive, and for what I’ve been through it’s been a pleasant experience,” concluded Wega.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a head and neck cancer, it is important to be evaluated by cancer experts before beginning treatment. Call 1-800-KARMANOS (1-800-527-6266) to speak with a trusted oncology patient navigator.

GENESEE COUNTY SISTERS LEARN OF INCREASED CANCER RISK WITH GENETIC TESTING

Siblings Susan and Sandra say they’re glad they took the steps to find out.

Knowing your family tree is more than discovering who came before you and understanding the events that shaped the past. It can also help you prevent cancer and save your life. Sisters Sandra Feldhahn and Susan Calandri, both of Fenton, recently learned how their family’s medical history plays a huge role in their overall health. If it was not for the proactive health care Feldhahn received at the Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Flint, these sisters would not have even thought about genetic testing.

“I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer (uterine cancer) in 2018, after a routine pap smear. I had a total hysterectomy,” explained 56-year-old Feldhahn. She was 52 at the time of her hysterectomy. “My doctor tested the cancer after it was removed and cancer treatment was recommended.”

“After going through six rounds of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, I was at a follow-up appointment. It was suggested that I take a genetic test, due to my father’s history with cancer.”

The test, which focused on inherited breast cancer genes, came back positive for a mutation in her ATM gene, a gene primarily associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Feldhahn was then referred to the Cancer Genetic Counseling Service at the Karmanos Cancer Institute to discuss the implication of the results for herself and her family. Additional testing was recommended for other hereditary cancer conditions, including Lynch syndrome, due to Feldhahn’s personal uterine cancer history and family health history. Lynch syndrome is the most common hereditary colon and endometrial cancer syndrome.

“Those diagnostics came back positive for Lynch syndrome, so then we got my sister into the conversation,” Feldhahn said.

Both ATM mutations and Lynch syndrome are hereditary cancer conditions that are inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion, meaning Feldhahn’s siblings have a 50% chance of having inherited either condition and face an increased risk for certain cancers. In early 2022, Feldhahn’s 67-year-old sister Susan found out her test results for Lynch syndrome – positive.

Lynch syndrome is also formerly known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). People who have Lynch syndrome have a higher risk of developing:

• Colorectal cancer

• Bladder cancer/Urinary tract cancer

• Bile duct cancer

• Endometrial (uterine) cancer

• Kidney cancer

• Liver cancer

• Ovarian cancer

• Pancreatic cancer

Prostate cancer

Stomach cancer

Small bowel (intestinal) cancer

In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that Lynch syndrome also increases the risk for brain and some skin cancers. Patients with Lynch syndrome are also at a higher risk for developing these cancers at a younger age.

“Our father had several cancers related to Lynch syndrome, including colon cancer and bladder cancer – and I had endometrial cancer,” said Feldhahn. “Dad was a farmer. He was exposed to so many chemicals and toxins in his environment. Honestly, we kind of credited his cancer to that,” said Calandri. “Cancer wasn’t something that really controlled his life. We didn’t really connect it to genetics.”

Read more on how learning about their family health history has changed the meaning of cancer prevention for Sandra and Susan by visiting karmanos.org/patient-stories

How Genetic Testing Works at Karmanos

The genetic counselors at Karmanos try to make the process of genetic counseling and testing as straightforward and efficient as possible for patients. Appointments are offered via telehealth and can be completed within 30-45 minutes.

During the appointment, the genetic counselor reviews the patient’s personal and family history information to determine whether genetic testing is appropriate, provides information about hereditary cancers and walks patients through the process of genetic testing, insurance coverage, and the implications of testing for the patient and their family.

Karmanos genetic counselors order the test kit, which is sent to the patient by mail; patients follow the enclosed instructions and send the testing sample back with the provided label. When the lab completes the testing, the genetic counselor reviews and discusses results with the patient over the phone.

Consider genetic counseling if you have:

• Several relatives with the same or related cancers (i.e., multiple relatives with breast cancer, or colon and endometrial cancers on the same side of the family)

• A personal or family history of a rare or unusual cancer, such as male breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or pancreatic cancer

• A relative with more than one type of cancer

• A personal or family history of cancer under the age of 50

For more information about genetic testing and counseling through Karmanos, call 1-800-KARMANOS (800-527-6266). Genetic counseling and testing are available to patients throughout the Karmanos Cancer Network. To find a location near you, visit karmanos.org/genetics.

Sandra Feldhahn (left) and Susan Calandri (right) went on a sisters’ trip to Hawaii to honor and celebrate Feldhahn’s cancer journey. This is the two of them at the airport.

COLON SCREENING CONSULTATION

Schedule your colon screening consultation today

If you are getting ready to celebrate your 45th birthday, or recently turned 45, now is the time to schedule a consultation with a Karmanos specialist.

Many patients had to put off colorectal cancer screenings due to the Coronavirus pandemic, according to a recent peer-reviewed study in Medicina, a scientific journal. After two years, physicians are noticing a rise in the diagnosis of late-stage colorectal cancers due to the delay in screening.

You may not have followed up on a recommendation before the pandemic to receive a colorectal screening for many reasons. Whatever your reasoning, Karmanos Cancer Institute makes it easy for patients to return to their routine colorectal cancer screenings. You can schedule an appointment online for a colorectal screening consultation with one of the specialists at Karmanos Cancer Center in Detroit or Karmanos Cancer Institute at the Weisberg Cancer Center in Farmington Hills. During your consultation, you and the specialist will discuss your health history, determine which colon screening test is the best option for you and you will receive instructions on when your screening needs to occur.

What to Expect During a Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy catches colon cancer early. It is also the only cancer screening that includes prevention. During a colonoscopy, gastroenterologists at Karmanos screen for cancer and look for possible signs of potential cancer, like polyps. Polyps are a non-cancerous growth that can eventually turn into cancer. The specialist can eradicate the abnormal tissue if a polyp is discovered during the colonoscopy.

Should You Receive a Colonoscopy?

People who have an increased risk for developing colorectal cancer should schedule a colon screening consultation, including those who:

• Are 45 years old or older

• Have a family history of colorectal cancer or genetic factors, such as Lynch syndrome

• Have a personal account of colorectal cancer or polyps

• Have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), also known as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis

Patients usually do not experience symptoms in the early stages of colorectal cancer. A colonoscopy could help prevent cancer or catch the disease early for the best treatment outcome.

The best thing about a colonoscopy:

You only need one every 10 years.

To learn more about colonoscopies and to schedule a consultation at a Karmanos or McLaren location near you, call 1-800-KARMANOS or visit karmanos.org/colorectalscreening.

Originally published at freep.com.

THE RIGHT CARE AT THE RIGHT TIME — ALL THE TIME

Choosing

McLaren Medical Group Primary Care

With hundreds of physicians to choose from in our network, visit mclaren.org/welcomeback to find a McLaren Medical Group provider near you.

McLaren Convenient Care

McLaren Now

See a provider through McLarenNow virtual visits anytime, anywhere on your smartphone, tablet, or computer with a webcam. Download the app at mclaren.org/mclarennow

McLaren Bay Region

McLaren Bay Special Care

McLaren Caro Region

McLaren Central Michigan

McLaren Clarkston

McLaren Flint McLaren Greater Lansing, McLaren Orthopedic Hospital

McLaren Health Management Group McLaren Insurance Company, Ltd. McLaren Lapeer Region

McLaren Macomb

McLaren Northern Michigan McLaren Northern Michigan at Cheboygan McLaren Oakland McLaren Port Huron McLaren Thumb Region McLaren St. Luke’s Karmanos Cancer Hospital

For more urgent conditions (such as accidents, falls, minor burns or injuries, moderate backaches, and sprains, etc.), visit one of McLaren's convenient care locations. Find one near you at mclaren.org/walkinclinics

McLaren CareNow Clinics

McLaren CareNow clinics at select Walgreens offer high quality, efficient, cost-effective care for minor illnesses, injuries and conditions. Find the closest location at mclaren.org/carenow.

McLaren Emergency Care

If your condition is emergent, call 9-1-1 or seek care at a dedicated McLaren Emergency Room. Find locations near you or check in to an emergency room online at mclaren.org/ER

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