A world free of cancer
To lead in transformative cancer care, research and education through courage, commitment and compassion
On the Cover: This is what healing looks like. Scan the QR code or visit karmanos.org/TerrellsStory to discover Terrell’s story of recovery and resilience.
At Karmanos, every discovery, every patient, every partnership begins with one belief — that everyone deserves their best chance.
At the heart of Detroit and across the Great Lakes region, the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute stands as a beacon of hope, excellence and leadership in cancer care. As one of the nation’s prestigious National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers, a recognition first achieved in 1978, Karmanos continues to advance discovery and deliver exceptional care with compassion and purpose.
As a subsidiary of McLaren Health Care and in partnership with Wayne State University, Karmanos unites the strengths of an academic research leader and a statewide health system. The collaboration brings together laboratory scientists, physicianresearchers and patient-centered teams working side-by-side to move discoveries from bench to bedside and set new standards of cancer treatment.
This report captures the strength of that collaboration, from innovative therapies and community partnerships to stories of resilience and progress. Together with McLaren Health Care and Wayne State University, we are not simply treating cancer, we are transforming the future of cancer care for our region, our country and the world.
Shaping the future of cancer care for our communities has been one of the brightest points of pride for the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. While this report reflects accomplishments from the past five years, it represents only a small, yet impactful, moment in our over 80-year legacy of pioneering research and delivering world-class cancer care.
Today, Karmanos cares for nearly 1 in 4 cancer patients across a 46-county catchment area that represents two-thirds of Michigan’s population, an extraordinary responsibility that underscores the importance of our work as the first cancer center in the state to receive the National Cancer Institute’s Comprehensive Cancer Center designation, and the only one in Detroit.
It is our privilege to present the Karmanos Cancer Institute Accomplishment Report, 2020–2025.
During this time period, we have achieved significant milestones that reflect both the strength of our science and the compassion of our care. Our research programs have advanced discoveries that are reshaping treatment and prevention and translating laboratory findings in tumor biology, molecular therapies and clinical trials. At the same time, we have expanded patient-centered care through new and larger clinics, industry-leading technologies and the recruitment of national leaders who strengthen our research and multidisciplinary teams. Together, these efforts ensure that innovation
moves seamlessly from bench to bedside and that every patient in our catchment area has access to “Your Best Chance” against cancer.
As a center deeply rooted in Detroit and extending across the state, we have strengthened our role as a trusted partner in the community. Annual Screening Saves Lives events serve as a critical bridge to address gaps in preventive care and create sustainable pathways for ongoing cancer screenings and early detection, while our Pink Out the Park and All-Cancer Awareness Night partnerships with the Detroit Tigers extend education and survivorship support to tens of thousands. Through Cancer Action Councils, Research & Advocacy Consortium partners, and lay health advisor training, we bring science into the community in clear, accessible ways, fostering trust and empowering individuals to become advocates for cancer awareness and prevention.
These accomplishments underscore the power of aligning world-class research with compassionate,
Boris Pasche, M.D., Ph.D., FACP
President and Chief Executive Officer
Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute
Brian R. Gamble
President and Chief Executive Officer
Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Center and Network
community and patient-centered care. Yet we view them not as endpoints but as building blocks toward our goal of reducing the burden of cancer for all populations. Guided by our vision of a world free of cancer and our mission to lead and
transform cancer care, research and education through courage, commitment and compassion, we will continue to advance discovery, expand access and strengthen partnerships that improve outcomes for communities.
With gratitude,
Boris Pasche, M.D., Ph.D., FACP
President and Chief Executive Officer
Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute
Brian R. Gamble
President and Chief Executive Officer
Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Center and Network
256,548 Chemotherapy Visits
443,747
Total Radiation Treatments
75,087
Total Surgical Volume
1,400+
Bone Marrow & Stem Cell Transplants
247 CAR T-cell Therapy Treatments 128 Scientific Members
Cancer-Related Funding
Patient Accruals by Trial Type
3,160 Non-Interventional Treatments
*Data current October 2025
3,886 Interventional Treatments
2,006
Publications
24% Intra-Programmatic 29% Intra- and Inter-Programmatic
Karmanos Cancer Institute –Dearborn
Karmanos Cancer Institute at Lawrence and Idell Weisberg Cancer Center 7. FLINT
Karmanos
Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Greater Lansing
Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Lapeer Region
Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Macomb, Ted B. Wahby Cancer Center
12. MOUNT PLEASANT
Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Central Michigan, Morey Cancer Center
13. OXFORD
Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Oakland – Oxford
14. PETOSKEY
Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Northern Michigan
15. PONTIAC
Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Oakland
16. PORT HURON Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Port Huron
The Molecular Therapeutics (MT) Research Program thrives at the intersection of discovery and delivery. MT brings together 66 members from Karmanos and Wayne State University under one umbrella collaborating on laboratory science, imaging innovation and clinical investigation. This program has powered some of Karmanos’ most important advances in recent years, from first-in-class device approvals to paradigm-shifting therapeutic breakthroughs that are transforming how cancer is treated and understood worldwide.
Guided by program leader Yubin Ge, Ph.D., who is an expert in acute leukemia biology, co-leader Eduard Chekmenev, Ph.D., a cancer metabolism imaging expert and co-leader Hirva Mamdani, M.D., a medical oncologist studying novel therapies for lung cancer, the team focuses on three core themes: discovering and validating new tumor targets, developing advanced imaging technologies and translating these innovations into interventional treatment trials. This framework ensures that discoveries are not siloed, but instead move purposefully toward therapies that address urgent patient needs.
A defining achievement this period is the FDA approval in September 2023 of the TheraBionic P1 device for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer. This milestone represents a historic advancement in noninvasive cancer therapy and a major point of pride for Karmanos, as the president and CEO Boris Pasche, M.D., Ph.D., FACP, served as co-inventor of this groundbreaking technology.
The handheld, portable device delivers low-level, tumor-specific radiofrequency electromagnetic fields through a spoon-shaped antenna placed on the patient’s tongue. The signals disrupt cancer cell growth while sparing healthy tissue, improving survival with minimal side effects.
Karmanos became the first center in the world to prescribe this groundbreaking therapy, underscoring our role as a global leader in advancing innovative, noninvasive treatments for patients with limited options. Building on this success, Karmanos investigators have launched clinical trials to evaluate the device in breast, colorectal and pancreatic cancers, supported in part by philanthropic investment.
The MT Research Program also played a pivotal role in one of oncology’s most significant breakthroughs of 2025: the FDA’s accelerated approval of dordaviprone (Modeyso™), the firstever systemic therapy for H3 K27M–mutant diffuse midline glioma (DMG), a rare and aggressive brain tumor in both children and adults. The discovery
This program has powered some of Karmanos’ most important advances in recent years, from first-in-class device approvals to paradigm-shifting therapeutic breakthroughs that are transforming how cancer is treated and understood worldwide.
of ONC201, now known as Modeyso, was co-led by MT research member, Gen Sheng Wu, Ph.D., professor, Department of Oncology and Pathology, Wayne State University, in collaboration with Wafik El- Deiry, M.D., Ph.D., professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University.
Modeyso works by activating mitochondrial ClpP and blocking dopamine D2 receptors (DRD2), triggering the integrated stress response, correcting abnormal metabolism and inducing tumor cell death. Importantly, it restores a key epigenetic marker lost in H3 K27M–mutant DMG. The FDA approval offers long-awaited hope for patients with few options.
The MT Research Program has demonstrated exceptional productivity between 2020 and 2025.
Members published 1,269 papers during this period, including 203 (16%) in high-impact journals with impact factors greater than 10. Funding is equally robust, with $7.1 million in annual direct peer-reviewed support (including $2.7 million from the National Cancer Institute) and more than $26 million in annual direct non–peer reviewed support. Members have conducted 19 investigatorinitiated trials, several of which arose directly from discoveries like these. Eleven new members have joined since 2020, further expanding the program’s expertise and reach. These achievements exemplify the Karmanos commitment to translating scientific discovery into real-world innovation.
Scan the QR code or visit karmanos.org/MT to learn more about the Molecular Therapeutics Research Program.
This story has been adapted and condensed from an original Karmanos patient feature. Certain details have been edited for length and clarity.
As the second person in the world to receive the FDA-approved TheraBionic P1 device, this survivor is defying liver cancer and getting back to hobbies he loves.
George Fish and his wife of 48 years, Anne Marie, fill their daily schedules with activities. “We have a calendar and we fill it every day. We got stuff to do, and we keep going,” shared his wife. “My dad always said, ‘What you don’t use, you lose.’ So we keep moving.
“Let’s hope that we can keep doing what we’re doing. We’re fortunate and so lucky.” And fortunate they are.
It was a regular day in February 2024 for the 73-year-old Macomb, Michigan resident. He started his day by having lunch with some friends. Suddenly, he felt a horrific pain he had never felt before. His friends had to call his wife, and he was rushed to the hospital with massive internal bleeding. Emergency surgery saved his life. After surgery, doctors had scans done to see what the cause could be and ordered a biopsy. He spent eight days in the hospital. About a week after he was discharged, an oncologist called to tell him and Anne Marie that he had stage IV liver cancer.
The Fishes were shocked, especially because George had not experienced any symptoms before that day. “They said they couldn’t operate,” Anne Marie
explained. “So, they started with immunotherapy because that would give him an option of continuing the life that we have.”
At the same health system where he received emergency care, Fish began his immunotherapy treatment. He had no side effects, was feeling good, and could still do activities with his wife and friends. But the tumor continued to grow.
Next, his oncologist put him on a chemotherapy pill. Unfortunately, this treatment delivered the same results – no side effects, but the tumor was still growing. “We have a lot of faith and believe in miracles,” shared Anne Marie.
Not feeling confident in his current treatment plan, Fish was considering a second opinion. The treatment options he had tried were not working. He brought the idea to his oncologist, who encouraged him to explore his options.
“I was just looking for another avenue than what I was doing because I wasn’t getting any results,” he explained. He already knew about the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute. After a few conversations, he and his wife called.
“When we called Karmanos, we talked to someone on a Monday and got all the records sent over,” explained Anne Marie. “We thought we’d probably get in for the appointment in about a month. Tuesday morning, we were out to breakfast before going bowling, and the phone rings — it’s Karmanos. She said, ‘Can you come in tomorrow?’ Which was a Wednesday. I thought that was a miracle.”
In December 2024, the Fishes arrived at George’s second opinion appointment in Detroit and met Boris Pasche, M.D., Ph.D., FACP, medical oncologist and member of the Gastrointestinal and Neuroendocrine Oncology Multidisciplinary Team.
“We do have a lot of faith in him,” stated Anne Marie.
“Easy going, explains everything thoroughly, and I may ask questions twice, but he puts up with me,” added George. Dr. Pasche told George and Anne Marie about the TheraBionic P1 device, for which he was a candidate.
In December 2024, Fish became the second patient in the world to be prescribed the TheraBionic P1 device after its FDA approval.
Fish described his thoughts when he saw the device. “It looks like it’s out of Star Wars. What is this thing that I put on my tongue? Radio waves? And it’s going to work? But I haven’t got much choice. Why not try it?”
After that first appointment with Dr. Pasche, and before he received the device, Fish did some research. “I saw the FDA just approved it in September 2023, and I did some reading,” he described.
“They had 10 or 20 people on the trial that didn’t have any choice, and their lives were at stake. So, what have I got to lose? Might as well. I don’t know of any other options at this point.”
The treatment is simple. Patients have to sit through one-hour treatment sessions, three times a day, in the comfort of their home. “I put my feet up and watch TV.”
Fish said he hasn’t experienced any side effects. “I feel great. I don’t have any problems. I lose one day a week doing this – 21 hours, but that’s it!”
It’s now been almost a year since Fish began using the device. He comes in every two months for imaging. So far, his scans have shown that his tumor is stable – there has been no growth.
“There’s a tolerance. If it grows, but at a small rate, it’s still considered acceptable or good. If it doesn’t grow, that’s even better. My oncologist said I fall within that tolerance.”
Treatment with the TheraBionic P1 device has given Fish months that he and his wife weren’t sure he’d have, and it hasn’t interfered with his hobbies: golfing, walking, exercising, traveling, and chasing after another perfect 300 bowling game.
“One thing I can say is that I’ve had friends who have battled cancer, and I saw them with the chemo and get very sick. If this treatment could help many people, it would be a miracle because you can do it in your home. You do it at your own time. You don’t have to go to a hospital. And it doesn’t make you sick,” explained Anne Marie.
“So that’s a miracle. If it works for people, it’s a miracle.”
Scan the QR code or visit karmanos.org/therabionic to learn more about the TheraBionic P1 device.
THasan
Korkaya, Ph.D., Leader Associate Professor, Oncology, Wayne State University
Benjamin
Kidder, Ph.D., Co-leader Associate Professor, Oncology, Wayne State University
he Tumor Biology and Microenvironment (TBM) Research Program has made transformative progress, advancing from uncovering how cancer thrives to designing therapies now poised for clinical trials. TBM is led by Hasan Korkaya, Ph.D., who is an expert in breast cancer and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and co-led by Benjamin Kidder, Ph.D., who is a leader in epigenetics and transcriptional regulatory networks. The program brings together 35 members from 11 departments and five schools at Wayne State University. Their collective work focuses on how cancer grows, metastasizes and resists treatment, which are necessary efforts for creating new therapies for patients with advanced or hard-to-treat cancers.
One of the program’s most significant accomplishments is the development of ATC - 324 using the Autophagy-Targeting Chimera (AUTO-TAC) platform, led by TBM research member Hyeong-Reh Kim, Ph.D. This breakthrough technology is designed to break down androgen receptor proteins and their variants in prostate cancer, which are known to make the disease resistant to standard hormone therapy (Bae TH et al., Cancer Research 2025 and funded by National Cancer Institute [NCI] grant R01CA282040). By identifying and
targeting these resistance mechanisms, Dr. Kim’s laboratory has created a new class of potential treatments that could bring hope to patients with castrate-resistant metastatic prostate cancer, as well as advanced head and neck tumors. These discoveries are now advancing toward clinical trial development.
Since 2020, TBM members have authored 528 publications, with 90 (17%) appearing in high-impact journals with impact factors greater than 10. These efforts are marked by extensive collaboration: 32% of publications were intraprogrammatic, 37% inter-programmatic and 66% multi-institutional. The program is supported by $5.6 million in annual direct peer-reviewed funding, including nearly $1.9 million from the NCI and an additional $3.7 million in non-peer-reviewed funding.
Advancing prostate cancer research: Frank Cackowski, M.D., Ph.D., medical oncologist, and his team provided critical contributions to the Michigan Prostate Cancer SPORE.
Expanding cancer epigenomics: Researchers studied an integrative analysis of 60 human cancer epigenomes (Kidder et al., Nature Communications 2021), creating a resource for identifying therapeutic targets to modify the cancer epigenome.
Recognized breast cancer leadership: Kay-Uwe Wagner, Ph.D., identified the cellular origin of a triple-negative breast cancer subtype (Nature Communications 2021) and development of the NSG-Pro genetically engineered mouse
Scan the QR code or visit karmanos.org/TBM to learn more about the Tumor Biology and Microenvironment Research Program.
model to study luminal breast cancers (Science Advances 2021).
Onco-immune innovation: Gil Mor, M.D., Ph.D., is in the development of CARG-2020, a virus-like vesicle that activates durable antitumor immune memory and prevents recurrence in ovarian cancer models (Mor et al., Cancer Immunology Research 2024).
New insights in pancreatic cancer: Dr. Wagner and colleagues defined pivotal roles of
Janus tyrosine kinase 1 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma progression (Cell Reports 2024).
TBM investigators pursue these goals through three interconnected research themes: identifying the molecular and cellular drivers of tumor progression, uncovering the genetic and environmental mechanisms that enable metastasis and defining how the immune system responds to tumor cells. Together, these themes provide a comprehensive framework that allows the team to move from fundamental discovery to translational opportunity. This structure has enabled TBM to generate novel targets, publish high-impact findings and position its science for clinical application, reinforcing Karmanos’ strength in addressing some of the most challenging aspects of cancer.
The AUTO-TAC technology is designed to break down androgen receptor proteins and their variants in prostate cancer, which are known to make the disease resistant to standard hormone therapy.
Cancer is not an equal disease. Beyond the physical toll, its impact is shaped by where people live, their access to care, available resources and the conditions in which they work and thrive. These differences create unequal outcomes across communities.
Understanding why these inequities persist demands rigorous investigation and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. That challenge defines the mission of the Population Studies Research (PS) Program. Led by Jennifer Beebe - D immer, Ph.D., MHP, and co-leader Lauren Hamel, Ph.D., MBA, the team examines not only the biological and environmental factors that drive cancer risk, but also the social, structural and systemic
barriers that influence diagnosis, treatment and survival.
The program includes 22 members representing eight departments and three schools at Wayne State University, including nine new members since 2020. PS investigators maintain strong partnerships with nearly two dozen communitybased organizations serving minority populations throughout metropolitan Detroit, ensuring that research remains connected to life experiences of those affected. Karmanos’ affiliation with McLaren Health Care further strengthens this reach, providing access to a statewide catchment area that reflects diverse populations, incomes and backgrounds.
Funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in 2024, the Disparities in Immuno-Oncology Outcomes in Detroit (P20 DIODE CA290450) study investigates genetic and immune factors that contribute to differences in treatment response between Black and White women with HER2positive breast cancer who receive trastuzumab therapy. Co-led by PS research member Kristin Purrington, Ph.D., and TBM research member Heather Gibson, Ph.D., this research bridges molecular biology and population science to uncover the biological and social mechanisms driving racial disparities in immuno-oncology outcomes. By integrating laboratory findings with patient-level data from Detroit’s diverse population, the DIODE project aims to inform the development of more precise, equitable and effective cancer therapies, ensuring that advances in immunotherapy benefit all patients.
In 2024, PS researchers secured a $9.6 million NCI Program Project Grant (P01CA272239) to study Genetic Variation in Cancer Risk and Outcomes in African Americans. Led by Ann Schwartz, Ph.D., and Dr. Beebe-Dimmer, this initiative builds on Karmanos’ longstanding leadership in cancer epidemiology and molecular genetics. The study leverages one of the largest cohorts of African American cancer survivors, integrating population-based research, molecular profiling and family-based genetic studies to identify inherited and environmental factors contributing to cancer risk in diverse populations. Findings from this work are improving understanding of genetic susceptibility, particularly for prostate, breast and lung cancers where disparities remain pronounced. By linking genetic risk data with behavioral and environmental variables, the project is generating actionable
insights that inform prevention strategies and precision screening efforts across the Karmanos catchment area.
The CAPABLE (CrossFit® and Physical Activity: A Better Life Experience) trial addresses a crucial but often overlooked aspect of cancer survivorship: restoring physical function and quality of life after treatment. Led by Dr. Beebe-Dimmer, the 12-week therapeutic trial has enrolled 315 cancer survivors across metro Detroit and northern Michigan to evaluate the impact of structured physical activity on long-term recovery. Participants not only engaged in supervised exercise sessions but also learned how to integrate movement and strength-building routines into their daily lives. Outcomes recently published in Preventive Medicine (2023), showed CAPABLE demonstrated measurable improvements in strength, mobility and sleep health. The success of this program reflects Karmanos’ commitment to translating evidence-based interventions into accessible, community-driven programs that promote equitable survivorship and sustained wellness.
From 2020 through 2025, program members published 410 peer-reviewed articles, including 35 (8%) in high-impact journals with an impact factor greater than 10. Collaboration remains a hallmark of the program with 33% intra-programmatic, 26% inter-programmatic and 80% multi-institutional. During this period, PS members conducted eight investigator-initiated trials.
Scan the QR code or visit karmanos.org/PS to learn more about the Population Studies Research Program.
How do we define a learning organization? It’s one that pushes the boundaries of knowledge, where research drives innovation and where mentorship ensures the next generation is ready to continue that mission. That’s the model embodied by the Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC) Program at Karmanos.
Led by Morhaf Al Achkar, M.D., Ph.D., M.S., FAAFP, the program integrates education, mentorship and career development across every level of the cancer continuum, from middle school students discovering science for the first time to postdoctoral researchers advancing breakthroughs in cancer biology. The program’s impact extends across Michigan and beyond, creating a robust and sustainable pipeline of future scientists, clinicians and educators.
Morhaf Al Achkar, M.D., Ph.D., M.S., FAAFP, Leader, Associate Professor, Oncology, Wayne State University Haana Hariri, Ph.D., Co-leader, Assistant Professor, Biological Sciences, Wayne State University
● The Biomedical Career Advancement Pipeline (BCAP) program offers a six-week summer research experience that has doubled its capacity since 2023, from supporting 10 students annually to more than 20 students each year.
● The Medical Mentor Pathway Program (M2P2) offers clinical shadowing and mentorship for approximately 20 high school upperclassmen and undergraduate students through two-week rotations across 16 specialty areas. The program pairs students with physicians and scientists to foster a sense of belonging and broaden exposure to health care and research careers.
At the undergraduate level, the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program, now in its 14th year, offers a 10 -week
CRTEC’s outreach begins early, inspiring students to envision futures in science and medicine.
● Detroit Future Healers (formerly FocusStem) serves over 100 high school students annually, connecting them with Karmanos researchers and clinicians through lab tours, field trips and mentorship.
Tomorrow’s researchers explore discovery-driven research under the mentorship of Karmanos scientists.
mentored cancer research experience at Karmanos and Wayne State University (WSU). Since its inception, the SURF program has served as a launchpad for emerging scientists, with 75% of alumni continuing to pursue M.D. or Ph.D. degrees. Building on this success, the program will expand and enhance undergraduate training through the NextGen Cancer Scholar grant (R25CA295446), awarded in 2025. This new program will replace and strengthen SURF, providing broader mentorship, research training and exposure to cancer biology and clinical oncology, while continuing to focus on developing and supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds in cancer research.
CRTEC’s commitment to training extends beyond the undergraduate level, supporting graduate and postdoctoral learners as they advance toward research independence and clinical excellence.
The Cancer Biology Graduate Program within CRTEC is the flagship training program under the Department of Oncology at WSU, enrolling approximately 30 Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., and M.S. students. Supported by a long-running 38-year National Cancer Institute T32 training grant (CA009531), the program provides funding for four Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. students annually. Training emphasizes basic, translational and populational science research, complemented by specialized training programs in community outreach, career mentoring and research workshops. All trainees are also introduced to the clinic environment through physician rounding at Karmanos.
Similarly, the Medical Physics Graduate Program, also in collaboration with WSU, is recognized as one of the nation’s leading training environments
for medical physicists. The program equips students with the expertise to advance radiation therapy, diagnostic imaging and nuclear medicine, developing both the tools and the talent essential to precision cancer care.
CRTEC complements these programs with targeted mentoring, grant development workshops and conference support for early-career investigators, ensuring that every learner has the resources and guidance to translate their potential into impact.
Across all levels of training, CRTEC embodies Karmanos’ belief that education is the foundation of discovery and state-of-the-art cancer care. By investing in people, the program builds capacity for innovation and ensures that the future of cancer research is as diverse, skilled and committed to improving patient outcomes.
Scan the QR code or visit karmanos.org/CRTEC to learn more about the Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination Program.
A“catchment area” is more than geography; it’s Karmanos’ promise to meet every community member where they are. Through the Office of Community Outreach and Engagement (COE), we work to understand who lives within our 46-county service area, what challenges they face in preventing and treating cancer and how we can partner to close those gaps.
Home to 6.8 million residents, more people than in 33 U.S. states, this region accounts for 95% of the patients Karmanos serves. As a subsidiary of McLaren Health Care, Karmanos has built a unified network of 17 care sites statewide, ensuring both urban and rural regions benefit from equitable access to cancer expertise. To address diverse community needs, COE divides its service area into five regions: North, Central, East, Southeast, and Detroit, representing Michigan’s demographic and socioeconomic diversity.
Led by Hayley S. Thompson, Ph.D., associate center director for Community Outreach and Engagement, and Latonya Riddle-Jones, M.D., MHP, assistant director for Clinical Outreach, the COE office serves as the primary arm for Karmanos’ community outreach efforts. The office is organized across four sections that collectively drive its mission:
Catchment Area Data and Responsive Programs; Scientific Engagement and Capacity Building; Cancer Prevention; Screening and Connection to Care; and Partnerships and Policy. Together, these teams translate research into real-world impact through datadriven insight, academic-community collaboration, and equitable access to prevention and care.
Community-academic partnerships are central to COE’s mission. Its award-winning Michigan Cancer HealthLink connects eight regional Cancer Action Councils (CACs) consisting of cancer survivors, caregivers and advocates who use knowledge of their communities to inform cancer research and outreach. All CAC members complete the Building Your Capacity (BYC) training, a nine-module curriculum covering topics such as community-based participatory research, power and privilege in research, literature search, research design, ethics and grant writing. Since 2016, 232 community members have completed this training, strengthening research equity statewide. HealthLink’s innovation has earned Michigan Cancer Consortium Spirit of Collaboration Awards in both 2017 and 2020.
To complement community training, COE also prepares scientists to engage the public. The Scientists in Action Program teaches Karmanos researchers to communicate complex discoveries in clear, relatable ways through a 20-minute video training, live feedback sessions and quantitative and qualitative evaluations. Between
2022 and 2025, 52 researchers completed the program, showing a 38% increase in knowledge communicating science to lay audiences and 26% increase in confidence.
Through initiatives such as the Research and Advocacy Consortium (RAC) and Faith Community Research Network (FCRN), COE now partners with 116 active community organizations. Since 2021, these collaborations have contributed to 19 externally funded research projects, representing $35 million in grants and have strengthened collaboration between community members and Karmanos scientists, further positioning Karmanos as a national leader in community-engaged cancer research.
To strengthen science literacy across the state, Karmanos hosts Community Conversations on Cancer, a public discussion on prevention, detection and research. Since 2022, there have been 19 events reaching 803 attendees, including hybrid sessions, in partnership with the Detroit Public Library. Based on brief tests on the topics presented, attendees demonstrate a 54% average increase in knowledge from pre- to post-session.
The COE office created the Karmanos Cancer Network COE Taskforce in 2022 to coordinate outreach across all 17 statewide sites. Together, outreach, navigation and education teams have delivered 704 cancer education events, reaching 49,932 individuals, a 13% increase in events and 19% increase in individuals reached since 2022. These activities have supported screening navigation across the Karmanos and McLaren systems, where 660,939 cancer screenings were completed between 2021 and 2024, a 10% increase over those years.
A major success has been the sustained impact on breast cancer screening and education. Two
signature interventions, The Witness Project of Detroit and Real Talk: Breast Cancer, train lay health advisors (LHAs) to deliver peer-to-peer education and connect women to mammography and genetic risk assessment. Since inception, these programs have reached more than 3,400 women, led by 79 trained LHAs, making Karmanos the only organization in metro Detroit to consistently deliver evidence-based, community co-led breast cancer interventions for over a decade.
In partnership with the Karmanos Clinical Trials Office, COE is helping increase awareness and participation in clinical studies. Videos coproduced with community stakeholders raised the proportion of community members and patients who said they were likely to join a clinical trial from 48% to 63%. Staff training built from the same materials improved confidence in addressing barriers by 33% and increased understanding of trial costs by 52%. This collaboration has driven a 27.5% increase in accrual to interventional nontreatment trials since 2020 and enrollment of Black participants in interventional treatment trials rose from 21.1% to 25.5% during the same period.
From training scientists and lay educators to connecting thousands with prevention and screening resources, COE continues to turn insight into impact. Each initiative reinforces Karmanos’ enduring commitment to advancing cancer equity long before treatment begins by listening, learning and meeting communities where they are.
Scan the QR code or visit karmanos.org/COE to learn more about our Community Outreach and Engagement efforts.
Every clinical trial begins with a question, and at Karmanos, those questions are transforming cancer care. From testing breakthrough therapies to pioneering virtual trials, the Clinical Trials Office (CTO) turns research into treatment options for patients.
Operating one of the most robust oncology research portfolios in the region, between 2020 and October 2025, Karmanos opened 609 clinical trials and enrolled more than 2,700 patients in interventional treatment studies between its Detroit headquarters and statewide network.
Speed and efficiency define the Karmanos approach to clinical research. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) requires that new trials be activated within 90 days, a benchmark Karmanos consistently surpasses. Since 2020, the Institute
has reduced its median activation time by 38%, achieving a median of 86 days.
This performance underscores Karmanos’ reputation as a trusted partner for national and international sponsors, demonstrating both operational excellence and deep collaboration across departments. For patients, it means faster access to promising new treatments and greater opportunity to participate in new studies.
This efficiency, combined with the Institute’s statewide footprint, creates a uniquely powerful
research environment, particularly in early phase (Phase I) clinical trials, where every day gained brings patients faster access to novel interventions. Though headquartered in Detroit, Karmanos has clinical research staff embedded across the McLaren network, providing pre-screening, referrals and in-the-clinic coordination for patients throughout Michigan.
The result is a demographically and geographically diverse patient population that reflects urban, suburban and rural communities, a factor increasingly valued by national and global sponsors seeking diverse trial enrollment. The CTO offers a model for how research institutions can accelerate innovation while ensuring that every population has access to breakthrough care.
In 2024, Jeffrey Zonder, M.D., a leading multiple myeloma specialist, launched the Institute’s first decentralized clinical trial, a telehealth-based study for patients with renal AL amyloidosis. In this novel design, all visits are conducted virtually through telemedicine or phone consultations and medications are shipped directly to patients’ homes. Participants complete treatment diaries, undergo local lab testing and meet frequently with physicians or the study team via video calls.
This innovation was born out of a simple but pressing reality: for many patients, access to next-generation treatments can be limited by distance, mobility or health constraints. Some treatments require hours of travel for brief appointments, an exhausting burden for individuals already managing fatigue and complex symptoms. By rethinking how trials are delivered, Karmanos has created a model that removes those barriers while preserving the same high standards of safety, oversight and data integrity.
The success of this first decentralized study has laid the groundwork for a new era of hybrid and remote research, expanding access to life-changing therapies and setting a precedent for how academic cancer centers can meet patients where they are.
Karmanos’ excellence in clinical trial execution extends to global impact. In 2021, Nitin Vaishampayan, M.D., radiation oncologist, and the Genitourinary (GU) Multidisciplinary Team played a pivotal role in the VISION trial that led to the FDA approval of Pluvicto® for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. To date, over 250 infusions have been given to Karmanos patients after its approval.
Karmanos was one of only 18 international sites enrolling 29 patients, among the first in the world to receive this treatment and ranked as one of the highest accruing institutions. During the FDA inspection that followed at Karmanos, the agency reported minimal findings, a testament to the precision and integrity of the GU clinical trials team and clinicians involved. This work not only contributed to a new life-extending therapy but also reinforced Karmanos’ standing as a leader in highimpact, industry-sponsored research.
From rapid trial activation to decentralized care delivery, the Clinical Trials Office continues to set the standard for how cancer research reaches patients. At Karmanos, clinical trials are more than studies; they are a lifeline.
To see how we are offering tomorrow’s standard of care today, scan the QR code or visit karmanos.org/clinicaltrials.
This story has been adapted and condensed from an original Karmanos patient feature. Certain details have been edited for length and clarity.
When a new radiopharmaceutical therapy offered fresh hope for prostate cancer, one man’s six-hour trip proved life-changing.
Living in Cadillac, Michigan, David Levine was an avid hunter and outdoorsman who thrived on adventure. About 15 years ago, his active lifestyle was unexpectedly interrupted after a routine visit to his primary care physician. His routine bloodwork revealed elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels — a potential sign of prostate cancer. Though he had no apparent symptoms, Levine continued regular visits with his doctor until he was referred to Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Central Michigan, Morey Cancer Center in Mount Pleasant, for further evaluation.
Levine underwent additional bloodwork and a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. The biopsy showed an adenocarcinoma with a Gleason score of 7. He was diagnosed with an aggressive metastatic prostate cancer.
After careful assessment and discussions with his health care team, Levine began radiation therapy and Lupron, a hormone suppressing medication that effectively slowed his prostate cancer.
After a few months, his PSA levels began to rise again. He underwent several rounds of additional androgen deprivation therapy. His dedicated nurse practitioner, who closely followed his
progress, advocated for a newly FDA-approved radiopharmaceutical therapy (RPT) called Pluvicto® (lutetium Lu 177 vipivotide tetraxetan) to target the tumor at the cellular level.
“RPT uses radioisotope therapy in the process of delivering radiation intravenously to cancer cells by adding radioactive material, or radionuclides, to proteins that bind with the receptors on the cancer cells, destroying those cells,” explained Nitin Vaishampayan, M.D., Levine’s radiation oncologist, medical director of Radiopharmaceutical Services and interim leader of the Genitourinary Oncology Multidisciplinary Team.
The nearest Pluvicto treatment location was at Karmanos in Detroit, where Dr. Vaishampayan practices. After a PSA level of 60, and a PET PSMA (prostate-specific membrane antigen) scan that showed progression of disease, Dr. Vaishampayan and his primary oncologist at Karmanos Cancer Institute in Mount Pleasant, Elias Zeine, M.D., hematologist and medical oncologist, reviewed the case and approved him to begin Pluvicto therapy. Dr. Zeine explained the treatment process in detail.
“Being part of the Karmanos Network means our patients, no matter where they live, have access to the most advanced treatments, clinical trials and newly approved therapies as soon as they become available,” said Dr. Zeine. “In many ways, it’s like having early access to care. Our colleagues in Detroit are only a phone call away. That collaboration ensures every patient across our Network receives expert, research-driven care.”
During his cancer journey, a woman he shared a special bond with that began decades ago came back into his life. At their 50th class reunion, he reconnected with Connie. She accompanied Levine on the six-hour round-trip drive to Detroit to receive his first Pluvicto infusion and has stood by his side since, every step of the way.
“I knew if this treatment was going to help me, I would drive wherever to get it,” he expressed.
“When treated with Pluvicto, patients receive outpatient treatment every six weeks for a maximum of six infusions. Appointment times are usually less than one hour,” Dr. Vaishampayan explained.
After his first treatment in November 2024, Levine’s PSA level dropped by close to 50%. Dr. Zeine was pleased that just a single treatment had lowered his PSA to 30.
Levine had to avoid close contact with others for the next three days, but he experienced no side effects.
“I was not nauseous. I could eat whatever I wanted to. It was manageable. I felt like myself — I could do anything I wanted,” he recalled.
Six weeks later, Levine returned to Karmanos in Detroit for his second Pluvicto treatment, which resulted in another 50% reduction in his PSA level. Following his third treatment, his PSA levels dropped by yet another 50%. When he completed all six Pluvicto treatments in July 2025, his PSA level had returned to a normal level of 2.
New cancer treatment options often come with uncertainty and concern, but Levine had a different outlook.
“If I liked my doctor, I trusted my doctor,” he said. “I was willing to do what Dr. Zeine recommended, and I’m so glad I did — because it truly helped me.”
After completing his final Pluvicto treatment, he married his partner and faithful companion, Connie, on May 17, 2025. Now at 78 years old, Levine is embracing life to the fullest, where he can do whatever he wants, as long as he’s by the side of his beloved wife.
When asked what advice he would give to others considering Pluvicto, Levine shared, “If other treatments are not working, consider Pluvicto. For me, I did not experience any side effects from it. Trust your doctors — they know what option is best for you.”
Scan the QR code or visit karmanos.org/theranostic to learn more about this therapy.
Curing cancer requires both scientific breakthroughs and the capacity to bring them to patients. At Karmanos, discovery and delivery move in lockstep with each advancing the other. From Southeast Michigan to Central to Northern Michigan, we are transforming cancer care by expanding access, modernizing technology and investing in cures that change lives.
Achieving this balance demands sound financial stewardship and long-term vision. “Health care faces complex economic pressures nationwide,” says Regina Doxtader, chief financial officer, “but our commitment remains the same by providing every patient with access to the most advanced cancer care available.”
Regina Doxtader, Chief Financial Officer
generation imaging, theranostic technologies and precision radiation equipment.
For patients and families facing cancer, proximity can be as powerful as expertise. That’s why Karmanos made expanding access to care a cornerstone of its growth strategy, ensuring that the most advanced oncology expertise is available not only in Detroit but throughout the state.
Building on this vision, Karmanos opened new cancer centers in Dearborn, Lansing, Oxford and Roseville, and completed one of its most significant projects to date: a $48 million expansion of the Farmington Hills clinic, tripling its size to meet growing demand in Oakland County and beyond.
Guided by this principle, Karmanos continues to make strategic investments that align financial performance with mission-driven growth. Across 17 locations in Michigan, the Institute maintains nearly 300 clinical trials available for enrollment each year and serves an average of 14,000 patients annually. Operational priorities ensure that growth improves patient access rather than creates new barriers.
Since 2020, that commitment has driven multimillion-dollar investments, resulting in nearly 128,000 square feet of new and expanded clinical space across the Karmanos service line. These enhancements have been complemented by next-
The state-of-the-art Farmington Hills facility represents a deliberate shift toward comprehensive, community-based ambulatory care, bringing infusion, radiation, imaging and multidisciplinary expertise under one roof. With expanded exam rooms and procedure suites, along with a full complement of support services, the center provides patients with what they need in their own community. Among its most significant advancements is the introduction of Michigan’s first Leksell Gamma Knife® Icon™, an industry-leading system for noninvasive, high-precision brain radiosurgery that targets tumors and other neurological disorders without traditional incisions. The technology enables patients to receive transformative care in an
“Instead of reacting to cancer, we’re anticipating it. We are giving patients the tools to take control of their health.”
— Doris Ranski-Zazula, Vice President Karmanos Cancer Network
outpatient setting, supported by a collaborative team of specialists in radiation oncology, neurosurgery and medical physics.
Since 2020, the program has performed nearly 750 radiosurgery procedures, offering patients sub-millimeter precision that spares surrounding tissue and reduces recovery time. Each treatment reflects Karmanos’ commitment to combining advanced technology with operational excellence to deliver world-class care. As one patient described, it is truly “a precise beam of hope.”
“Our mission is to make cancer care not only exceptional but also accessible,” says Chris Graunstadt, chief operating officer. “When patients can receive advanced treatments closer to where they live, surrounded by family and support, it changes everything, both medically and emotionally.”
Chris Graunstadt, Chief Operating Officer
These growth initiatives reflect more than physical expansion; they represent Karmanos’ evolving
model of care. Through its statewide network, every patient has access to the same level of expertise, innovation and compassion that defines Karmanos’ flagship campus.
Karmanos continues to lead in one of the most promising fields in oncology, theranostics, an approach that unites diagnosis and therapy to deliver personalized, targeted treatment.
Traditionally, imaging served primarily as a diagnostic tool. Today, Karmanos is helping lead a national shift toward theranostics, a fusion of targeted therapy and advanced imaging that allows physicians to both identify and destroy cancer cells with remarkable precision. Using specialized radiopharmaceuticals that seek out tumors at the molecular level, clinicians can first visualize the disease and then deliver a therapeutic dose to the exact same target. This “see what you treat, treat what you see” approach is redefining personalized cancer care.
Karmanos has been at the forefront of radiopharmaceutical innovation, conducting early-phase clinical trials and implementing realworld applications years before these treatments became mainstream. Having introduced targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy in 2017, well before FDA approval, the Center has, in just the past six years, completed nearly 850 theranostic infusions for patients. This leadership helped pioneer the clinical use of Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) and continues to shape the national adoption. These nextgeneration therapies, along with Actinium-225 (Ac-225), deliver highly targeted radiation directly to cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.
To further advance these capabilities, Karmanos invested in SPECT/CT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography), a hybrid imaging technology. By combining the functional imaging of SPECT with the anatomical precision of CT, SPECT/CT allows clinicians to pinpoint exactly where radiopharmaceuticals localize in the body, monitor therapeutic response and adapt treatment in real time.
“Our goal is to move beyond simply identifying a tumor,” says Anthony Shields, M.D., Ph.D.,
associate center director for Clinical Sciences, program leader for Molecular Imaging and gastrointestinal oncologist. “SPECT/CT lets us visualize molecular activity in real time and tailor treatment to each patient’s biology. It’s where personalized medicine truly becomes personal.”
The impact of theranostics is already being felt across multiple cancer types at Karmanos, including prostate, neuroendocrine and thyroid cancers, with a growing number of investigational agents in development. This integrated approach also enables researchers to explore new combinations, pairing imaging biomarkers with immunotherapies and systemic treatments to improve outcomes.
The integration of radiopharmaceutical therapy and the investment in SPECT/CT is a tangible example of how infrastructure, science and clinical excellence converge to redefine what’s possible in cancer treatment.
In collaboration with McLaren Health Care, Karmanos continues to redefine what’s possible in radiation oncology. Since opening in 2018, the McLaren Proton Therapy Center in Flint has become the largest and most advanced facility of its kind in Michigan. In 2024, it reached a significant milestone, treating its 1,000th patient, a testament to the growing accessibility and impact of proton therapy across the state.
While conventional radiation therapy remains an essential and highly effective component of cancer care, proton therapy introduces an added layer of precision. By releasing the majority of its energy directly at the tumor site, proton therapy minimizes
Innovation in radiation medicine doesn’t stop with cancer at Karmanos, it’s transforming lives in new ways. The McLaren Northern Michigan team, part of the Karmanos Cancer Network, has pioneered the use of low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) for treating osteoarthritis. This new approach utilizes reduced, targeted radiation to alleviate joint inflammation and pain, providing relief for patients who may not be suitable candidates for surgery. Early results have been promising, with three out of four patients reporting significant improvements in pain and mobility, and no observed increase in cancer risk associated with the treatment.
exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. This focused delivery is especially beneficial for treating tumors near critical organs, such as the brain, spine or prostate, where limiting long-term side effects is crucial.
In 2026, the Center will again make history as one of the first in the world to deliver proton therapy using Leo Cancer Care’s groundbreaking upright treatment system. This new technology enables patients to be treated in a seated or standing position, rather than lying flat, thereby improving comfort, alignment and targeting accuracy.
“The Leo upright positioning system represents a remarkable advance in precision radiation therapy,” says Doris RanskiZazula, vice president of the Karmanos Cancer Network.
“By enhancing patient comfort and treatment accuracy, we’re elevating both the science and the human experience of care.”
Together, these milestones represent more than progress, they mark a shift toward a new era of radiation medicine.
In 2023, the Institute piloted Volpara Risk Pathways at its Detroit and Farmington Hills locations, an AI-powered tool that helps identify patients at increased risk for breast cancer based on their personal and family history, lifestyle factors and breast density. The technology transforms complex information into personalized risk profiles, guiding follow-up care and decisions on genetic counseling.
Following the success of the pilot, the program expanded across the Karmanos Cancer Network, reaching patients from Southeast to Central Michigan. Since implementation, more than 62,000 patients have been screened, with roughly 1 in 8 identified as having an elevated risk for breast cancer. These individuals are now receiving personalized prevention plans, enhanced monitoring and lifestyle counseling. This is a powerful example of how artificial intelligence can turn data into early detection and save lives.
Through strategic investment, expanded access and compassionate care, Karmanos is building the framework for a future defined not by cancer, but by cures.
62,000+
Patients Screened
1 in 8
Patients Identified as High-Risk
8
High-Risk Screening Clinics Statewide
From dispensing life-saving medications in inpatient and outpatient settings to pioneering systemwide specialty care, the pharmacies at Karmanos are a cornerstone of comprehensive cancer treatment. Every prescription represents a balance between efficacy, safety, precision and compassion.
Pharmacists at Karmanos play a vital role far beyond dispensing. Their expertise is especially critical in leading the implementation and management of industry-leading therapies, including bispecific antibody therapies for certain blood cancers and solid tumors, as well as Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte (TIL) therapy for melanoma, a groundbreaking option first offered in Michigan at Karmanos.
Bispecific antibodies, such as T-cell engagers, represent one of the most promising advances in cancer treatment. These engineered proteins are designed to bind to two distinct antigens simultaneously, acting as molecular bridges that bring immune cells directly into contact with cancer cells. However, these transformative therapies come with significant challenges, particularly immunerelated toxicities. In response, the Karmanos pharmacy team developed comprehensive management protocols to address these side effects proactively. The protocol includes:
● Pre-infusion risk mitigation strategies that reduce the likelihood of severe reactions.
● Post-therapy supportive therapy kits for home use, empowering patients and caregivers to manage mild reactions and symptoms safely between visits.
“By combining scientific rigor with hands-on clinical insight, our pharmacy team ensures that novel therapies like bispecific antibodies deliver their full potential of improving survival, minimizing complications and giving patients confidence throughout their treatment journey,” says Surender Kanaparthi, R.Ph., chief pharmacy officer.
Surender Kanaparthi, R.Ph., MBA, DPLA, FACHE, Chief Pharmacy Officer
There are more than 10 FDA-approved bispecific antibodies for various cancer types; the most recent was approved in July 2025 for the treatment of multiple myeloma. Karmanos is among the select cancer centers nationwide that are studying the expanded use of this treatment in AL amyloidosis. The Institute is also participating in clinical trials exploring next-generation bispecific antibodies for myeloma, reflecting its commitment to shaping the future of immunotherapy.
The same expertise driving success in bispecific antibody therapy is transforming another breakthrough treatment, Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte (TIL) therapy, which harnesses a patient’s own immune system to fight cancer. The process involves removing a small sample of the patient’s tumor to isolate naturally occurring TIL cells, culturing millions of these cells in a specialized laboratory and reinfusing them into the patient to attack the cancer directly. Our pharmacists play a pivotal role in this complex therapy, managing lymphodepleting agents such as fludarabine and immune-stimulating drugs like interleukin-2 (IL-2), while also managing toxicities and coordinating with oncologists, nurses and cell-therapy team members
to ensure accurate dosing and patient safety. Early results from TIL therapy are promising.
At the heart of this work is the Karmanos Specialty Pharmacy (KSP), the Institute’s hub for sourcing, dispensing and managing complex therapies that require intensive oversight and expertise. Rebranded in 2020 as KSP, McLaren’s Specialty Pharmacy, the program now serves both oncology and non-oncology patients across the McLaren Health Care system.
Launched in 2019, KSP has embodied Karmanos’ mission to deliver exceptional care close to home by linking patients, clinicians and pharmacists through an automated dispensing hub in Troy, Michigan. Since its inception, KSP has achieved 30% year-over-year growth, reflecting its strong integration into clinical workflows and increasing demand for specialized pharmaceutical services. KSP holds accreditations from URAC, ACHC and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy
(NABP), and has been recognized as a URAC Leader in Performance Measurement Excellence for three consecutive years, a distinction reserved for top-performing specialty pharmacies nationwide.
KSP exceeds national benchmarks for safety, compliance and patient adherence. With continued growth, the program is broadening its reach and redefining how patients access advanced cancer therapies.
● KSP partners with drug manufacturers, nonprofits and other organizations to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
● Up to 95% of copay reductions were achieved through coordinated financial assistance and faster insurance authorization.
● Mail-Order Delivery: A centralized distribution model ensures patients receive critical medications quickly, safely and conveniently at home, reducing travel and wait times.
Since 2020, Karmanos has reinforced its standing as one of the nation’s premier cancer research and treatment organizations through the recruitment of 23 scientists and more than 20 clinicians. Together, these leaders are advancing Karmanos’ mission to provide patientcentered care and groundbreaking research that saves lives every day.
Boris C. Pasche, M.D., Ph.D., FACP, Chair, Oncology, Wayne State University
Among the most significant appointments is Boris C. Pasche, M.D., Ph.D., FACP, who joined Karmanos in August 2023 as president and chief executive officer. A visionary physician-scientist, Dr. Pasche brings decades of leadership in clinical care, academic medicine and cancer research. In this role, he oversees strategic planning, scientific direction and multidisciplinary coordination across our network of 17 treatment centers. His proven record of growth and innovation positions him to elevate Karmanos’ research enterprise and extend our impact regionally, nationally and internationally.
20+
new physicians have joined Karmanos during this period, bolstering both downtown Detroit operations and regional centers across Michigan.
Joining Dr. Pasche in advancing the Institute’s reputation for clinical and research excellence is Wasif Saif, M.D., MBBS, a world-renowned hematologist and oncologist who now leads the Phase I Clinical Trials Multidisciplinary Team and co-leads the Gastrointestinal and Neuroendocrine Oncology team. Dr. Saif brings decades of translational research experience and extensive leadership from institutions including Yale, Columbia and Tufts. His expertise expands access to early-stage clinical trials in Detroit, offering patients first-in-human therapies and novel treatments.
Further strengthening Karmanos’ scientific leadership, Azeddine Atfi, Ph.D., assumed the role of deputy director in 2025. A globally recognized molecular biologist, Dr. Atfi’s pioneering research focuses on pancreatic cancer and tumor signaling pathways. With a distinguished career spanning Harvard Medical School, the University of Mississippi and Virginia Commonwealth University, he brings a proven ability to build collaborative, high-performing research programs. His arrival will help drive Karmanos’ next phase of scientific discovery and deepen our partnership with Wayne State University in advancing translational cancer research.
George Yoo, M.D.,
FACS, Professor, Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Wayne State University
The excellence of Karmanos physicians continues to earn recognition across the region and nation, underscoring the Institute’s commitment to advancing cancer care through leadership and collaboration. Under the guidance of George Yoo, M.D., FACS, chief medical officer, our multidisciplinary teams exemplify the strength of expertise and teamwork that defines Karmanos. In Hour Detroit’s 2025 “Top Docs” issue, more than 80 Karmanos physicians were honored by their peers across a wide range of specialties, underscoring the depth of expertise within the organization. The issue also featured hematologist Jeffrey Zonder, M.D., leader of the Multiple Myeloma and Amyloidosis Multidisciplinary Team, on its cover, symbolizing the impact Karmanos physicians have on both patients and the field of oncology. Fellow honoree Najeeb Al Hallak, M.D., MS, co-leader of the Gastrointestinal and Neuroendocrine Oncology Multidisciplinary Team, was also recognized for his clinical excellence and research leadership.
In addition, 19 Karmanos physicians earned recognition on Castle Connolly’s 2025 “Top Doctors” list, representing the top 7% of physicians nationwide. This elite recognition is based on peer nominations, professional achievements and demonstrated excellence in patient care and highlights the respect Karmanos physicians command within the broader medical community.
Together, we celebrate not only individual physician achievement but also the collective strength of multidisciplinary teams united in our vision of a world free of cancer. Through visionary leadership and continued investment in toptier talent, Karmanos remains at the forefront of delivering world-class care to patients throughout Michigan and beyond.
Scan the QR code or visit karmanos.org/TopDoc to view the full list of our 2025 Hour Detroit honorees.
Technology, researchers and brilliant physicians are essential to the mission of Karmanos. Yet it is our nursing teams and assistants, at the bedside, in infusion chairs and throughout the care continuum, who also shape the patient experience. They combine clinical sophistication with human connection, turning complex care into confidence and hope.
That commitment has earned national recognition and consistently strong performance across patient experience measures. According to the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), Karmanos Cancer Center ranked in the 76th-99th percentile nationally for overall hospital rating and likelihood to recommend in FY2020 and FY2022, and in the 59th-75th percentile in FY2023 and FY2024, demonstrating sustained excellence even amid evolving patient care challenges.
Since 2023, Karmanos was also named among the 277 Top Hospitals for Patient Experience by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and earned a five-star rating for nurse communication — one of only 13 hospitals in Michigan to achieve this distinction. These honors affirm what patients consistently tell us: Karmanos nurses listen, respond and deliver care at the highest level.
Professional certification is a cornerstone of our quality care. Many of our nursing staff hold the Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN®) credential, a nationally recognized mark of advanced oncology
nursing expertise and commitment to lifelong learning. Nursing staff also pursue courses in chemotherapy, immunotherapy and bone marrow transplant, which provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver safe care to patients undergoing these complex therapies. Certifications and additional courses provides patients with confidence that their caregivers are among the most skilled in the field.
Karmanos actively supports nurses pursuing certification through exam reimbursement, continuing education resources and recognition incentives. In 2024, the Intravenous Drug Therapy (IVDT) Unit was formally recognized by the Oncology Nursing Certification Corporation (ONCC) for exceeding the 50% threshold of certified staff, a distinction shared by only a select group of institutions nationwide.
“Certification reflects a nurse’s drive to excel and I am thrilled that so many of our staff are pursuing opportunities to enhance their skill and understanding,” says Kathleen Fedoronko, MSN, RN, OCN, chief nursing officer and vice president of Patient Care Services. “Phenomenal oncology nursing care requires more than expertise, it’s the ability to connect, to comfort and to build trust that lasts well beyond a hospital stay. During a patient’s cancer journey, our nurses don’t just deliver care, they form relationships that often continue for years to come.”
That same compassion and expertise for patients extend across Michigan through the Karmanos Cancer Network. Among those who exemplify this dedication is Angela Gushow, RN, OCN, an oncology nurse at Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Bay Region. Angela combines professional expertise with personal empathy. Her experience reminds us that at Karmanos, exceptional care is more than a standard; it’s a calling fulfilled every day by nurses whose compassion turns treatment into healing and connection into trust.
According to the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems, Karmanos Cancer Center ranked in the 76th-99th percentile nationally for overall hospital rating and likelihood to recommend in FY2020 and FY2022, and in the 59th-75th percentile in FY2023 and FY2024.
This story has been adapted and condensed from an original Karmanos patient feature. Certain details have been edited for length and clarity.
Angela Gushow, RN, OCN, an oncology nurse at Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Bay Region, and a resident of Auburn, Michigan, has been caring for cancer patients throughout her entire career, for more than 22 years. She is an oncology-certified nurse and participates in a validation, train-the-trainer program throughout Karmanos to ensure that the same standard of oncology care is consistently delivered across the McLaren Health Care system for every patient. However, it is her firsthand experience as a breast cancer survivor that makes her uniquely qualified.
“I split my time working at the Karmanos infusion clinic and placing PICC lines at the hospital. I can’t imagine doing anything else. I love my job,” Gushow said. “I know how important it is to be there for my patients, putting a smile on their face, making them comfortable when they are going through a challenging time.”
Having already worked as an oncology nurse for years, Gushow knew the feelings of fear and anxiety patients experience while awaiting answers on a diagnosis of cancer or any lifethreatening illness. Though she at first wasn’t concerned, she eventually had those same feelings in 2014, after she discovered a lump in one of her breasts.
“I was young, so I figured, ‘eh – it’s probably nothing,’” said Gushow.
As a wife and young mother, she waited until her next annual gynecologic exam, two months later, to discuss it with her physician. However, Gushow’s gynecologist did not feel the lump but ordered a mammogram and ultrasound just to be certain.
“I wasn’t of an age where I was getting screenings for this type of thing. I’m so glad she was proactive and trusted her patient’s word,” Gushow said. “For her to listen and not push it off – it’s why I’m here today.”
Gushow’s mammogram results did show a highly suspicious area in her left breast. Like any other patient diagnosed with cancer, she had some worries.
“I didn’t know what was going to happen to me. I worried about what stage I had, if I was going to need chemo,” Gushow explained.
She chose the Karmanos location in Bay City to receive her care and decided to have a lumpectomy. The lumpectomy revealed her worst fear. Gushow was diagnosed with stage I invasive ductal carcinoma. That’s when she decided to have a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction.
“My husband, who is my high school sweetheart, and my family were very supportive. My mother-inlaw took me to most of my appointments. After the bilateral mastectomy, I had to take off at least six weeks of work,” said Gushow.
She also took Tamoxifen, a hormone therapy that is taken orally as a pill, for five years.
“At the time, my twins were just 3 years old. I wanted to do whatever I had to do to be here,” she explained.
Because of her fighter’s mindset, Gushow is doing what she loves, and that desire has come true.
“I’ve been cancer-free for 11 years. I’ve been able to watch my kids grow and participate in all of their activities. I’ve been able to live the life I wanted to live.”
Her twins, Alaina and Alexander, are now 15 years old.
Gushow’s interaction with patients is now different from what it was before her diagnosis. She often has one-on-one conversations with patients discussing both of their experiences.
Gushow said her personal experience makes reassuring patients that everything will be okay, even more meaningful.
“It feels good to be able to offer them hope and understanding, being there to answer their questions and just listen when they want to talk about what they are going through. I see some of my patients several times a week. They come in as strangers, and they leave as friends.”
She also enjoys hearing success stories from current patients and survivors who finished their treatments years ago. Caring for people in her community, when Gushow sees patients visit the cancer center during the holidays to give staff treats, or she sees a survivor at a school track meet, she enjoys catching up with them and seeing that they’re doing well.
“I love serving our rural communities. Patients come from the Thumb, the northern region, and beyond. I get a sense of pride to know that I’m helping people in my community, knowing that they can get the same care that they would get in the big cities right here in our backyard.”
One aspect of care that Gushow enjoys the most with the patients she cares for is the treatment graduation. This is when cancer patients get to celebrate their last treatment by ringing the victory bell. As they ring the bell, they are often surrounded by family and friends, but most of all, their caring staff.
“We make sure that they know that it truly is a celebration of life and that they made it. This fight is worth fighting.
“Nursing is just one piece of the puzzle,” added Gushow. “We work together with our social workers, pharmacists, and even schedulers. Without all of us working together, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do every day.”
At Karmanos, progress begins with people. It begins with the researcher pursuing an idea, the physician determined to find a better approach and the patient whose story inspires change. Philanthropy turns these individual acts of courage into collective impact, advancing discovery and expanding compassion across every part of the Institute.
Arnold D’Ambrosio, Chief Development Officer
Since 2020, philanthropic giving has exceeded $32 million, supporting groundbreaking research, patient assistance programs, the recruitment of top physician-scientists and capital improvements.
Highlighted are several cancer research initiatives supported through philanthropy with the U CAN - C ER VIVE Foundation. Their commitment to Karmanos stems from a deeply personal mission to give back after cancer touched their family. Today, their support continues to drive progress across multiple cancer types. The following examples show how their commitment has led to meaningful outcomes that continue today, advancing our shared vision of curing cancer.
2021 – Lymphoma | Principal Investigator: Dipenkumar Modi, M.D. | $325,372
Study: Circulating Tumor DNA as a Predictive Biomarker of Outcomes of Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation in Relapsed Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Nineteen of 20 planned patients have been enrolled, with completion expected by the end of
2025. Data analysis will follow, with findings to be presented at national conferences and published in scientific journals.
2022 – Pancreatic Cancer | Principal Investigators: Najeeb Al Halak, M.D., & Asfar Azmi, Ph.D. | $352,467
Study: Serial Blood Profiling for microRNA Expression Signatures to Gemcitabine/NabPaclitaxel in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
The study enrolled 21 patients, with expansion underway to 40, and identified microRNA profiles linked to chemotherapy response, laying the foundation for a new pilot study in
2026 comparing pancreatic and radiofrequency treatments, with an ASCO abstract planned.
2023 – Lung Cancer | Principal Investigators: Hirva Mamdani, M.D., & Heather Gibson, Ph.D. | $377,341
Study: Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICI) for the Treatment of Non-SmallCell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
The study analyzed data from 150 patients and revealed key immune microenvironment differences, including tertiary lymphoid structure maturation and T-cell exhaustion signatures, that may influence ICI outcomes. Findings have been presented at national conferences and submitted for publication, with a patent pending for new therapeutic methods.
2025 – Radiofrequency | Principal Investigator: Anthony Shields, M.D., Ph.D. | $459,010
Study: Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields Treatment of Liver, Pancreatic, Colon and Breast Cancers
2024 – Hematologic Malignancies | Principal Investigators: Suresh Balasubramanian, M.D., & Jeffrey Zonder, M.D. | $405,315
Study: Biological Aging and Mutational/ Immunological Signatures as Prognostic and Predictive Biomarkers for Hematologic Malignancies
Early results demonstrate that biological aging, as measured through methylome sequencing, may serve as a valuable prognostic biomarker in acute myeloid leukemia. Ongoing research aims to apply this tool to multiple hematological cancers, with presentations planned for ASH 2025 and ASCO 2026.
Multiple clinical trials are underway, including studies in liver, pancreatic, colon and breast cancers. Early enrollment is promising, with nearly 20 patients enrolled to date. Findings are expected to be presented and published as data mature through 2026.
Beyond the U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation’s extraordinary partnership, philanthropic support across countless organizations and families continues to advance both discovery and compassion at Karmanos. These contributions have helped provide patient transportation, lodging and financial assistance. Together, these acts of generosity drive scientific progress, sustain compassionate care and help shape the future of cancer treatment and discovery.
Karmanos has continued to distinguish itself as one of the nation’s most trusted names in oncology during this period. Our visibility and reputation have grown through deliberate strategy and meaningful storytelling, reflecting the confidence of patients, physicians and partners who continue to choose Karmanos as their first and best choice for cancer care.
Tamara Collins, Vice President, Marketing & Business Development
turn its mission into movement. The “Cancer Won’t Wait” campaign, launched after the COVID-19 pandemic, urged patients not to delay screenings and treatment, while the “Ring the Bell” campaign celebrated survivorship and the strength found in life after cancer.
According to NRC Health, when asked, “If you or a loved one were diagnosed with cancer, where would you choose treatment?,” patients across Michigan consistently named Karmanos among the top cancer care destinations. That confidence is earned through every clinical breakthrough, every act of compassion and every story of survival shared across our platforms. This momentum reflects not only our National Cancer Institute designation, but also the power of strategic storytelling and consistent brand stewardship, positioning Karmanos as a leading and trusted voice in cancer care.
Strategic alignment between marketing and clinical operations continues to drive measurable growth. Inpatient market share now exceeds 15% across key service areas, supported by notable gains in several tumor sites and increased outpatient activity throughout our statewide network. These outcomes demonstrate how data-driven, patient-focused marketing directly supports access, awareness and growth across the Karmanos system.
Through national award-winning campaigns and purposeful partnerships, Karmanos continues to
Building on this momentum, we introduced “Your Best Chance Deserves a Second Look” in mid2025, a powerful extension of our core brand platform. The campaign encourages patients and caregivers to make informed decisions with confidence, reinforcing Karmanos as Michigan’s most trusted destination for second opinions and comprehensive cancer expertise. By combining empathy with authority, the campaign turns uncertainty into clarity and awareness into action.
As part of McLaren Health Care’s role as the official health care system of the Detroit Tigers, we continue to extend our message of awareness and prevention beyond hospital walls. Tigers’ events such as Pink Out the Park (Breast Cancer Awareness), Prostate Cancer Awareness Night, Childhood Cancer Awareness Night and Strike Out Cancer Weekend extend far beyond the millions of impressions; it reflects our shared commitment to prevention and survivorship.
As Karmanos looks ahead, our mission remains clear: to lead in transformative cancer care, research and education. Every campaign, every partnership and every patient story carries forward a legacy of courage, commitment and compassion. As a trusted brand deeply rooted in community, we continue to reflect who we are and what we stand for by giving every patient their best chance.