Thrive Summer Edition, Vol. 1, No. 3

Welcome to Thrive

July- September, 2023 Vol. 1, No. 3

We hope you enjoy this summer edition of our new quarterly Survivorship digital magazine, Thrive. If you joined us for earlier editions, welcome back! We hope you’ll click here to sign-up for future editions. This edition has a special focus on gynecological cancer awareness.

Designed for adult cancer survivors and their loved ones living with, through, and beyond cancer, the goals of Thrive are to provide important information, share inspiring stories, and offer helpful resources across our Network.

If you have any questions on our content, or ideas for articles in upcoming editions, please contact Amy Litterini at amy.litterini@mainehealth.org.

Meet Kathy

Survivor to Survivor with Kathy Leavis

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Kathy Leavis. Kathy is an ovarian cancer survivor who lives in Portland with her husband of 46 years, Don.

In 2019, Kathy was part of an open water swimming group that met a few times a week at Ferry Beach in Scarborough. That fall, this particular group decided to see just how long they could keep swimming in the cold weather. They actually made it through the entire winter. . However, in March of 2020, Kathy had a new sensation of discomfort, and some pain in her stomach. She wondered if it was irritable bowel syndrome, but didn’t pay much attention as she was in the process of packing to visit a daughter who lives in France. The fact that her own mother had survived ovarian cancer had crossed her mind, though.

While visiting their daughter in Europe, she and her husband actually took a side trip to Barcelona, Spain, as a gift from their four children. As everyone knows all too well, the pandemic hit in March, 2020. They got the last flight out of Barcelona, the last flight out of Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, and ultimately what turned out to be the last Concord coach out of Boston to come back to

Maine. By then, her PCP appointment had been canceled because of the pandemic, but she let them know that she was having these pelvic symptoms and really did want to come in and be evaluated. The PCP got her in, did an examination, and ordered a check of Kathy’s cancer antigen (CA)-125 tumor marker levels (an indication of ovarian cancer). A few days later her PCP, Dr. Christine Gates, ultimately called and gave her the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Kathy's response to Dr. Gates, who she's very fond of by the way, was that ‘it must be very difficult for you to give this bad news to your patients.’ Dr. Gates then told her she had already made an appointment with an oncologist and for a CT scan. She had chosen the perfect person for her to see for a gynecological oncology consultation. She ultimately called her husband Don, who came right home from work. After that first shock and some tears, they agreed that they would get through this together as they did with other hard things in their life.

Her CT scan led to a biopsy, and finally the diagnosis of a tumor on her omentum, a layer of fatty tissue spanning across the abdomen. Dr. Gates referred her to Dr. Leslie Bradford, a GYN oncologist. Their relationship started with a telehealth visit. She would first have three

Kathywith one ofherswimcaps

Dr.

cycles of neoadjuvant (before surgery) chemotherapy, followed by surgery (a laparoscopic total abdominal hysterectomy [removal of the uterus], bilateral salpingooophorectomy [removal of both fallopian tubes and ovaries], and omentumectomy [removal of the omentum]. Surgery was followed by an additional three cycles of adjuvant (after surgery) chemotherapy.

Kathy was unable to

have a companion during her infusions due to the pandemic, so she sat through all of her visits alone. She was grateful for the

nurses and everyone in infusion who cared for her, and for the pharmaceutical company who was able to cover her very expensive two year course of medications.

Kathy was impressed with the rest of the care team who she came in contact with, remarking specifically about the radiology team who made her feel so comfortable. In 2022, imaging had found two tumors in the liver which were thankfully found to be benign on biopsy.

After each round of chemotherapy, Kathy experienced excruciating bone pain in her legs. She also had neuropathy and could not walk very well for the first several days after treatment. She continued swimming, and it was in the water where she felt most normal and so alive.

She wanted her 70th birthday in June to be a positive experience and so she asked friends and family to send prayer flags, rather than gifts She was able to hang those in a visible spot from her house into her yard for daily inspiration and hope.

Before her diagnosis, Kathy had registered for the Three-mile Islesboro Swim fundraiser race for Life Flight Maine. She swam her race virtually, knowing that this event would give her both strength and hope.

Kathy said she would be remiss if she didn't also talk about the sadness that survivors sometimes go through thinking about the possibility of leaving loved ones.

She wanted to share with readers the reminder to show your love to others and tell them you love

Kathy(right) with

Leslie Bradford(left)

Kathy’sprayerflags forher70th birthday

them. She is ultimately doing a legacy DVD through the programs at The Dempsey Center as a gift to her family.

Kathy began attending a virtual support group through the Dempsey Center and now attends in person. The sharing among survivors is important at all stages of treatment and recovery, and she believes the people in her support group at the Dempsey Center are very hopeful and courageous.

Kathy says her whole life has changed emotionally, spiritually, and physically. She currently attends a spirituality group for women that studies some Buddhist practices. She learned “metta meditation”, also known as kindness meditation, and she shares this with others. The practice is to say a sequence of affirmations (see inset, below) three times for yourself, and then three times for someone else (changing out the pronouns), and finally, working out to all those in the world.

Kathy(R)swimming in LakeMemphremagog

Following our interview and the collection of the great images shared here, Kathy said: “Cancer has made me a better person, slower to judge and more introspective. So, thank you.”

In February 2023, Kathy participated in the Kingdom Games in Vermont on the border of Quebec, Canada at Lake Memphremagog The temperature was -5 degrees with the wind chill, but she successfully participated and loved it!

Kathy is crazy about her grandchildren. At two years old, her granddaughter Brooke would reach her tiny hand up under Kathy’s cap as she loved feeling her grandmother’s soft, bald head. Kathy said: “My family was so supportive…. essentially, family is everything to me!”

~May I be safe and unafraid.

~May I behappy and live with ease.

~May I behealthy inmind, body andspirit.

~May I offergenuine love and kindness to allbeings.

Kathy with hergranddaughter, Brooke

This quarter, we feature awareness of gynecological, prostate, and bloodlymphatic system cancers

September is Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month

Symptoms of the most common gynecological cancers, including cervical, ovarian, uterine/endometrial, and vaginal, are below.

ABOUT PROSTATE CANCER

Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in U.S. men. Fortunately, when diagnosed early, prostate cancer has a better chance of being treated effectively. If caught early, more than 99% of people diagnosed today with prostate cancer will be alive in five years.

The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland in the male reproductive system. It sits just below the bladder and surrounds the upper part of the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder. The prostate is necessary for reproduction and helps make some of the fluid in semen. It also produces prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a substance that may increase if a man has prostate cancer. Elevated PSA levels don’t always mean cancer. PSA levels can also increase due to age, recent sexual or physical activity, or an enlarged or inflamed prostate gland.

WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER?

Prostate cancer occurs when prostate cells stop behaving normally. Normal cells grow, divide, and die on a regular basis. Sometimes something goes wrong with this process and the cells don’t die as they should. Instead, they grow and divide and cause a tumor. Tumors can be benign, meaning non-cancerous, or malignant, meaning cancerous.

Most prostate cancer grows very slowly with many men never knowing they have the disease. However, some prostate cancers are aggressive and will spread beyond the prostate to other parts of the body such as the bones, lymph nodes, and lungs.

SYMPTOMS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DETECTION

Most men do not have symptoms when prostate cancer is at an early stage. Some symptoms, such as frequent or painful urination, difficulty urinating, blood in the urine, or painful ejaculation, can be mistaken for other disorders. Common symptoms of advanced prostate cancer may include pelvic or back pain, leg weakness, anemia, and weight loss.

Prostate cancer is most frequently detected with a PSA blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE). Both tests can easily be done in a doctor’s office. If there is concern with the results of the PSA test or DRE, the doctor might request a biopsy, which is how prostate cancer is diagnosed.

It is important to understand your personal risk and talk with your doctor about routine testing. Early detection saves lives.

RISK FACTORS

All men are at risk of developing prostate cancer at some time in their lives, but certain factors may increase a man’s chances of a diagnosis:

• Age – almost all prostate cancer occurs in men 50 and over

• Race – Black men are 1.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with and 2.1 times more likely to die from prostate cancer than white men

• Family history – father, brother, or a son with prostate cancer, as well as close relatives with breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer

• Diet – eating large amounts of animal fat can increase risk

• Chemical exposure – those exposed to Agent Orange and other chemicals

• Genes – certain genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2

RISK FACTORS

ABOUT PROSTATE CANCER

TREATMENT

If prostate cancer is diagnosed, your doctor will determine the extent (Stage) and grade (Gleason score) of the cancer. This information helps identify the best treatment options for your situation. Learning all you can about treatment options and finding the right prostate cancer care team will help you make the most informed decisions.

Many treatments for prostate cancer can cause side effects that are disruptive, such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Consider all of your options before deciding on a plan, especially if diagnosed with slow-growing cancer that is not aggressive.

Treatment options include:

• Active Surveillance

• Local Therapies

– Surgery

– Radiation

– High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

– Cryotherapy

• Systemic Therapies

– Hormone Therapy

– Immunotherapy

– Targeted Therapy

Radiopharmaceuticals

– Chemotherapy

• Clinical Trials

QUESTIONS FOR THE DOC

• What is the stage of my cancer?

• Has my cancer spread and, if so, how far?

• How aggressive is the cancer?

• What are all of my treatment options?

• What are the possible side effects of each treatment?

• Should I get a second opinion?

Your doctor and care team should be open to any questions you have regarding your diagnosis, and they should be fully supportive of any second opinions you might wish to seek.

SURVIVORSHIP

Once you have completed your treatment, talk with your doctor about your follow-up plan. Find out what tests are recommended and how often you need to return for screening. It is important to stay on top of your screenings. Ask about a treatment summary. This is a convenient way to record your diagnosis and any treatment decisions you

and your care team have made to fight the disease. A treatment summary is a helpful tool for any doctors who care for you during your lifetime.

Life after treatment for prostate cancer may be different from before you were diagnosed. Remember, you are not alone. More than 3.1 million men are living with prostate cancer in the U.S. Continue talking to your healthcare providers about nutrition, physical therapy, ongoing side effects, and how you can not only survive, but thrive.

LEARN MORE

3.1+ MILLION MEN

LIVING WITH PROSTATE CANCER

We encourage you to use this information in conversations with your healthcare team about prostate cancer and related topics. For more information about prostate cancer and ZERO Prostate Cancer, visit our website www.zerocancer.org/learn.

The Cancer Risk and Prevention Clinic Welcomes

Dr. Hiemenga

I am Judy Hiemenga, a recent physician transplant from Michigan. You know, another “M” state with wonderful water and summers interrupted by snow and winter. Actually I do love winter too. My background was Obstetrics and Gynecology with a practice member that was West Michigan’s early Endocrine, Infertility, and IVF specialist along with the first Gynecologic Oncologist. My view on medical life was very much influenced by these practice partners. I went on to do another residency in Clinical Genetics after a couple decades in this practice. I have been involved in cancer genetics since completing my Genetics residency in 2011. I have been here at Maine Health in the Cancer Risk and Prevention Clinic since early March of this year. It has been delightful to get a chance to meet so many wonderful (or should we say “patients”?) people and families.

In the Cancer Risk and Prevention Clinic we see patients and families impacted by cancer. That is, patients in a personal fight with cancer or close contacts with those impacted by cancer. In the Cancer Risk and Prevention Clinic, we look for an inherited cause or predisposition for cancers. We offer DNA testing through just blood or saliva to seek answers to a “why” for cancer. Perhaps more significantly, we help identify personalized treatment options, both surgical and medical. We strive to provide patients and families with information about risks, screening, and importantly, cancer risk reduction. However, we do not offer some of the fun and interesting genetic tests such as “Do you like music and cilantro or might you be English and Irish?”

In the Cancer Risk and Prevention Clinic, we make every attempt to meet Maine Health’s goal to provide “care where you are” through Zoom-based secure remote visits from your home or through more local sites such as Maine Medical Center, the Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care at MaineGeneral Hospital, Waldo County General Hospital, and Pen Bay Cancer Care.

I enjoy art, reading, travel, hiking, sewing, cooking and baking. My husband is a retired art professor and is patiently teaching me water, oil, and acrylic painting techniques. I very much look forward to exploring Maine.

Judith Ann Hiemenga, MD

Stitched With Love

Our programs would like to extend a sincere thank you to our generous, creative donors who provide thoughtful, handmade gifts for our survivors on a regular basis. Above is a collection of beautiful quilts we received for our Maine Medical Center patients from very talented quilters!

Assessment & Treatment

Assessment and treatment of long term or late effects of cancer treatment

This quarter, we feature clinical trials, lymphedema screening and clinical nutrition.

The Importance of Clinical Trials in Cancer Care

By Dr. Leslie Bradford, Director of Research, GYN Oncology

Millions of Americans depend on medications. Over 4000 experimental drug therapies are active today, and that number will only increase in the future. Clinical trials are crucial to understanding a medication’s efficacy, side effects, as well as safety. As a clinician, I rely on data from clinical trials to help me make the best evidence-based recommendations for my patients.

My patients often ask if participating in a clinical trial will make them feel like a guinea pig, the subject of an “experiment”. Participation in a trial is completely voluntary and safety is our first priority when conducting a clinical trial. All trials are reviewed by our Institutional Review Board (IRB) and many undergo additional reviews through centralized IRBs if the study is being conducted at multiple sites. Trials are continuously monitored to make sure that

data is being recorded accurately and that potential side effects are being reported and monitored appropriately.

Often times it is more about finding the right clinical trial for you. This may mean a clinical trial investigating a new chemotherapy agent, a clinical trial investigating a new tool for reporting symptoms related to chemotherapy, or it could be a study where you participate in an interview about your care so that we, as clinicians, can better understand the patient perspective and thus provide better care to YOU. Clinical trials allow us to provide cutting edge care while ensuring that there is a rigorous process in place to ensure your safety, and by participating in a clinical trial, patients help to advance the science and help the next person facing the same cancer diagnosis.

There are different types of clinical trials:

• Phase 1 clinical trials focus on safety and finding the right dose.

• Phase 2 clinical trials involve a larger number of participants and focuses on efficacy.

• Phase 3 clinical trials compare an investigational therapy to the standard of care.

My patients often ask, “What are the benefits of participating in a clinical trial?” and “What will the impact be?”

One of the greatest benefits is helping to advance the science and our knowledge about a specific disease or a specific medication. As an example, several patients in our clinic were among the 209 patients who participated in the GARNET trial sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline LLC. This clinical trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of Dostarlimab, a type of immunotherapy, in patients with certain types of advanced cancers. Their participation led to the FDA approval of this immunotherapy in women with a specific subtype of recurrent endometrial cancer, adding yet another option to our toolbox when treating recurrent cancer.

Dr. Leslie Bradford

Continued from previous page

Not everyone enrolled on a trial, however, will directly benefit from a study drug, but the knowledge generated will definitely help the next patient facing the same problem. For instance, patients in our clinic participated in an international trial of Atezolizumab (an immunotherapy), Bevacizumab (a monoclonal antibody, or type of targeted therapy) and standard chemotherapy in the treated of advancestage ovarian cancer. Over 1300 women participated this trial, sponsored by Genentech and the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) Foundation. This study showed that immunotherapy did not improve overall survival compared to standard of care chemotherapy alone. While we often refer to trials like this as a “negative trial”, knowing that a medication does not benefit our patients is just as important as making new drug discoveries.

Whether or not a hospital system offers clinical trials can also be a reflection of the overall quality of care provided at that institution. Hospital systems actively involved in research and clinical trials are more likely to provide care that is in accordance with national guidelines. Clinical trials can also provide access to critical chemotherapies that are effective, but not yet widely available.

Facing cancer is a terrifying experience. I am so grateful to the women who have helped us to advance the science, to provide answers and options, and hopefully provide comfort and assurance to other women and their families who are just starting on their cancer journey. If you are interested in learning more about clinical trials in general, I highly recommend the resources available through the Foundation for Women’s Cancer and Society of Gynecologic Oncology. At MaineHealth we strive to open trials that we think will best benefit our patients. If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial closer to home, please talk with your provider, or access the following link: https://redcap.mmcri.cloud/surveys/?s=XYFHECT94C

As you consider treatment options for yourself or your loved one, you may consider participation in a clinical trial. Click here to access more information and see a list of open clinical trials locally: For Patients - MHIR (mmcri.org). For a complete list of trials open in the U.S. and abroad, visit www.clinicaltrials.gov.

A Study to Compare the Effects of Two Surgical Procedures in Ovarian Cancer Risk Reduction in Individuals with BRAC1 Mutations

NRG Oncology Clinical Trial: NRG-CC008 [SOROCk]

A non-randomized prospective clinical trial comparing the noninferiority of Salpingectomy to Salpingo-Oophorectomy to Reduce the risk of Ovarian Cancer among BRCA1 carriers [SOROCk]

About the trial

SOROCk [NRG-CC008] is a clinical trial that is studying if removal of just the fallopian tubes with the plan to remove the ovaries at a later time can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer the same as the usual care of removing both the ovaries and fallopian tubes among pre-menopausal individuals with an inherited BRCA1 mutation. Researchers believe that most ovarian cancers first begin in the fallopian tubes, suggesting that removing only the fallopian tubes may be as good as removing both the fallopian tubes and ovaries in preventing the development of ovarian cancer while avoiding surgically-induced menopause. This has never been formally tested in a clinical trial The study will also look at how individuals on the study feel about their quality of life

About NRG Oncology

As one of the five research groups in the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN), NRG Oncology carries out clinical trials on gender-specific malignancies, including gynecologic, breast, and prostate cancers, and on localized or locally advanced cancers of all types. NRG Oncology’s extensive research organization includes investigators, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, physicists, pathologists, statisticians and patient advocates. NRG Oncology includes more than 1,300 research sites worldwide, primarily in the United States and Canada. NRG Oncology is a non-profit research organization, funded mainly through grants from the NCI.

To contact NRG Oncology, call 267-519-6630 or email info@nrgoncology.org.

Version Date: June 9, 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a clinical trial?

Clinical trials are research studies that look to find better ways to prevent, diagnose, or treat disease.

Who can join this study?

Premenopausal individuals between the ages of 35 and 50 who have an inherited BRCA1 mutation, are planning to have surgery to reduce their risk of ovarian cancer and have at least one ovary and fallopian tube.

Am I required to be in this study?

No. Taking part in this study is voluntary. You are free to choose to participate or not to participate. If you choose to participate in this study, you are able to leave the study at any time. If you decide not to take part in this study, your doctor will discuss other riskmanagement options with you.

What are the medical options study?

Everyone taking part in this study will have some type of surgery to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Individuals in the study will choose one of two options:

• Have their ovaries and fallopian tubes removed at the same time.

• Remove just their fallopian tubes with a plan to remove the ovaries at a later time.

Removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes is the standard of care and has been shown to dramatically reduce the risk of ovarian cancer and decrease the risk of death in individuals with mutations Removing the fallopian tubes only may also help to prevent ovarian cancer and this study will determine if that decreases the risk of developing ovarian cancer the same as the standard of care

How long will I be in this study?

The surgical procedure will occur on a single day as chosen by you and your surgeon. You will be followed once per year for up to 20 years to see if you develop ovarian cancer in the future. You will be asked to have an annual CA125 blood test and complete online surveys approximately once per year.

Are there side effects?

The surgical procedures are very standard and not themselves part of the research investigations. We are most interested in determining if removing only the fallopian tubes provides a similar level of ovarian cancer prevention as removing the fallopian tubes and ovaries. We expect that less than 3% of all 2262 participants will develop ovarian or primary peritoneal cancer after either surgery, but we need to make sure that cancer is not more common in individuals who only remove their fallopian tubes. Your doctor will review all of the potential side effects with you.

Visit

Do you experience physical or emotional pain related to your cancer or cancer treatment?

 Pain* is one of the most common symptoms in cancer patients and one of the symptoms least likely to be adequately treated.

*Pain: An unpleasant sensory and emotional experience that may include either physical pain and/or non-painful discomfort such as aching, throbbing, numbness, tingling, burning, etc

 The IMPACTS Study -

Internet- delivered

Management of Pain

Among Cancer

Treatment Survivors, is designed to help you manage your pain so you can enjoy your quality of life.

 Cancer patients 18 or older who experience pain from cancer or cancer treatment are invited to discuss possible participation in the IMPACTS study.

 Compensation for your time will be provided. In-person and remote visits are available! Use the QR Code below to get to a short survey that will show if this study might be a good fit for you. Based on your responses, you may be eligible to take part in the IMPACTS Study. Note: only patients seen at Sanford or South Portland Mainehealth Cancer Care Centers are eligible to participate.

Scan QR code with your phone’s camera to access a short survey.

For more information on this study, please email: Shelby Monahan: shelby.monahan@mainehealth.org

Oncology Rehabilitation: Screening for Lymphedema Prevention

By Jana Tobin, PT, CLT, and Amy Litterini, PT, DPT

Lymphedema (lim-fi-dee-muh) is swelling caused by the build-up of fluid under your skin. This swelling can occur in an area around where lymph nodes were removed, or in an area that has been treated with radiation. MaineHealth offers an innovative program to reduce the impact of lymphedema in cancer survivors by using new technology. The program and equipment, available at the Breast Care Center in Scarborough and the Pen Bay Rehabilitation Center in Rockport, is intended for use with at-risk cancer survivors, including individuals with breast cancer.

Lymphedema is a leading post-treatment complication for many cancer survivors that costs the U.S. healthcare system an estimated $7 billion every year. Patients who undergo surgical, radiation, or certain chemotherapy treatments for breast, melanoma, or pelvic area cancers may have damage to the lymphatic drainage system in one or more limbs. There are 1.9 million newly diagnosed cancer survivors every year in the U.S., and 58% are at risk of developing limb lymphedema. It is estimated that one in three at-risk cancer survivors will develop lymphedema. Previously cancer survivors were not routinely monitored, but now there is new technology to aid in the early detection of lymphedema.

The lymphedema prevention program at Maine Medical Center and Pen Bay utilizes the latest lymphedema detection technology called L-Dex. L-Dex is a measurement of fluid buildup in an at- risk limb compared to a healthy limb. It is measured on the SOZO® device, which uses a sophisticated technology called bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS). The SOZO test is non-invasive, takes less than 30 seconds to complete, and provides results immediately after the test. At-risk patients receive a baseline measurement and then are measured regularly after cancer treatment (i.e. every three months for two years). An L-Dex increase of 6.5 or more from baseline is an indication that lymphedema is developing and intervention is needed. Recently published data from the largest randomized trial to assess lymphedema prevention, the PREVENT trial, showed that early detection using L-Dex combined with intervention can stop 92% of patients from progressing to chronic lymphedema through three years. Other methods of measurement, such as use of a tape measure by a trained clinician, have also been found to be effective if used regularly and consistently. The key is good communication with oncology providers, and routine monitoring for symptoms for early detection and treatment.

The SOZO Unit Display Screen

Managing Taste and Smell Changes During Chemotherapy

ByAmelia Sullivan,B.S.,DieteticIntern,withKatelynDeRaps,MS,RD,LD,ClinicalDietitian

Nutrition is crucial before, during, and after cancer treatment. Ensuring proper nutrition can help:

Maintain your strength

Keep your weight stable

Fight infection

Reduce side effects during and after treatment

Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, can alter taste and smell. Additionally, some may experience dry mouth from a decrease in saliva secretion. These side effects can make it difficult to consume enough nutrients. You may need to adjust your diet to ensure you are receiving proper nutrition.

Your sense of taste consists of five main components, salty, sweet, savory, bitter, and sour. Cancer treatment can result in foods tasting more sweet, bitter, or metallic. Often, people may lose their taste completely. Each person experiences changes differently, and often these changes may stop after treatment ends.

If your food tastes bitter or metallic:

Use plastic or bamboo utensils instead of metal.

Use glass or ceramic cookware. Rinse your mouth with water before and after meals.

Avoid canned food items (such as sauces and soups). Choose items in glass or plastic jars.

If your food tastes too sweet:

Add some salt.

Mix sweet drinks with water.

Add lemon, lime, or vinegar to foods.

Eat sour or tart foods.

if your food

Add more flavor:

seems tasteless:

Use herbs such as basil, thyme, oregano, and mint.

Use marinades, such as salad dressings, fruit juices, or other sauces.

Use sauces and condiments, such as soy sauce, mayonnaise, or ketchup. Use spices, such as salt, onion, and garlic powder.

Try sourand tart foods, such as citrus fruits or kimchi.

May need to avoid use of the above if they cause discomfort.

if your food taste or smell different than usual:

Avoid foods with strong odors.

Open windows while cooking if the smell bothers you. Choose foods that can be eaten cold or at room temperature. Drink small sips of liquid throughout your meals to rinse out the taste.

oral hygiene:

Taking good care of your oral hygiene will help to manage taste changes.

Brush your teeth and tongue twice daily with a soft bristle toothbrush that’s gentle on your teeth and tongue.

Alcohol-free mouthwash, sugar-free hard candies, and chewing gum may help with dry mouth.

You can find more information from the resources below:

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

American Cancer Society

m

One quart (4cups) water mixed with one teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.

Managing taste and smell changes from cancer treatment can be difficult. If you often do not get enough nutrition, working with a registered dietitian ("RD") may be necessary to ensure you get enough nutrition. Southern Maine Health Care's RD's can provide information, tools, and support to help you achieve better nutrition. For further information, please call 207-283-7148.

Reproduced with permission from the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition

Care Coordination

Care Coordination and planning includes communication and partnerships between the survivor and providers for ongoing survivorship care

This quarter, we feature a new Palliative Care space.

Planning

New MaineHealth Palliative Care Facility Opens

By Paige Tobie, MBA, Director, Practice Operations, Palliative Care MaineHealth Medical Group

The Palliative Care department is pleased to announce a new outpatient facility to provide additional access for all MaineHealth patients. The facility, which is located at 144 US Rte 1 in Scarborough, was opened in April, 2023. Palliative Care occupies Suite 2 for patient care and Suite 3 for administrative offices.

The clinic is conveniently located on Route One right off the highway. There is easy parking outside the building. Our clinic space is in a former OBGYN practice, so all exam and consult rooms have an attached restroom. The office gets lots of natural light, and we have taken advantage of that by filling the windowsills with plants. We have telehealth capabilities in our consult rooms to allow for family and caregivers to join virtually if needed. We also have a beautiful family room for larger discussions. Our outpatient staff includes Allison Fowler, Medical Assistant, Zach Broome, Patient Service Representative, Kelsey Hayes, LSW, and Melissa Boxall, RN. Dr. Isabella Stumpf will continue to see patients and will be joined by Dr. Elena Bennett, Dr. Elise Reid and Dr. Renee Sarett over the coming months.

Our team is here to help patients with serious illnesses maximize their quality of life and align their medical care with what matters most to them. We look forward to adding additional staff and availability to provide specialty palliative care to more patients and families.

Health Promotion

Health promotion includes strategies such as healthy eating, physical activity, and stress management in cancer survivorship

This quarter, we feature summer recipes and health coaching.

Nutrition: Color Your Diet this Summer

By Judy Donnelly, RDN, LD| Nutrition Program Manager, Dempsey Center

There’s a lot to like about summer: warm temperatures, single layers of clothing, outdoor gatherings and my favorite, farm fresh produce! Sure, we can access fresh produce all year, but can we agree that it’s hard to replicate the flavor, aroma and texture of the summertime tomato? As we approach one of the best seasons of the year, it’s a great time to start making colorful food a staple part of your diet.

Naturally colorful foods offer numerous compounds that support good health. Nutrients, such as vitamins C and K, calcium, potassium, magnesium and others are concentrated in these foods. Fruits and vegetables are also rich sources of fiber, which helps maintain a heathy environment in our intestines.

When it comes to the health benefits of produce, there’s more! When we eat fruits and vegetables, we also take in a host of nutrients called “phytochemicals” or plant chemicals, that also support good health and are associated with cancer risk reduction. Some examples of phytochemicals include beta carotene from orange and yellow produce, lycopene from red produce and allicin from white produce, such as onions and garlic. There are hundreds of phytochemicals that play important roles in helping our internal organs and systems function at their best and we get many of them by eating fruits and vegetables.

Nutrition information can sometimes be confusing, but let’s make this easy! One of the best ways to ensure that you get wide variety of nutrients from fruits and vegetables is to focus on eating a variety of different colored plants. That’s because the pigments that make blueberries blue, carrots orange, and spinach green are different phytochemicals. So, as you place produce (fresh or frozen) into your grocery cart, try to include a variety of colors. And, keep your local farmers in mind. Shopping at the Farmers Market or selecting locally grown produce at the store helps ensure you that are eating the freshest, most nutrient dense produce possible!

The Dempsey Center has two community gardens that support our nutrition and cooking programs. Our Celebrate the Harvest programs, offered in both Lewiston and South Portland, feature quick and easy recipes using seasonal produce, fresh from the gardens. You can find information about these and other programs in our Digital Program Guide, and a recipe from the Dempsey Nutrition program follows on the next page. The evidence is clear- a diet that includes an abundance of fruits and vegetables is associated with a reduced risk of many chronic diseases, including cancer. Think of your refrigerator as a culinary medicine chest and stock it with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

GREEK SUMMER SALAD

INGREDIENTS INSTRUCTIONS

1 large slicing tomato, diced or large handful of cherry tomatoes, halved

1 slicing cucumber, peeled (if desired) & diced

½cup feta cheese, crumbled

¼c. Kalamata olives, sliced

2 TBSP fresh basil leaves, slivered

pinch of black pepper

extra virgin olive oil, drizzle to taste

balsamic glaze, drizzle to taste

TIPS + NOTES:

Source: Judy Donnelly, RDN

1. Combine first 5 ingredients in serving bowl.

2. Top with a pinch of black pepper and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

3. Serve alongside any meat, fish or poultry, or add a can of garbanzo beans to the salad for some protein.

Lifestyle Medicine

WhatisHealthCoaching?

What does a Nurse-Health Coach do?

We work with patients to support them in making lifestyle behavior changes that will improve their overall health. Fundamental to this change is a partnership between the patient and the nurse-health coach. We use evidence-based skills and strategies that promote achievable and sustainable change. As health coaches, we empower our patients to identify their desired change and to create small and attainable goals. Individuals grow through overcoming challenges and identifying their strengths and support systems. Health coaching can help patients understand the process of change that leads to improved health outcomes. Keep reading for an introduction to our nurse-health coaches!

Meet Amy Pearl: My journey of becoming a registered nurse-health coach started in my twenties. After completing my bachelor's degree in social work, I worked with at-risk youth and their families. My passion for empowering others evolved into wanting to become a nurse. I returned back to school to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. While working as a cardiac and pediatric nurse, I discovered that many chronic and acute health issues are lifestyle related. As a nurse, I was driven to help my patients make the necessary changes to improve their health. I returned to school to complete a Master’s Degree in Health and Wellness Coaching with certifications in mindfulness teaching and plant-based nutrition. Today, I am working with patients to make lifestyle changes that will support them in preventing, reversing, or managing an illness. My professional journey has come full circle as a nurse-health coach. I am rewarded daily by working with patients who are ready to make health behavior changes and share their experiences with me. I am in awe of the strength and resilience my patients have when they set their minds to making a change. When I am not working, I enjoy visiting my four children, in their twenties, and love to spend as much time as I can outside hiking with my husband and three dogs, Elsa, Matilda, and Rosie. Meet Shannon Sutton: Shannon obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Maine in 2018. She worked in inpatient cardiology at Maine Medical Center where she developed a strong passion for health education and primary prevention of disease. In 2021, she was certified as a Wellness & Health Coach and shifted to do more nurse coaching, educating on healthy lifestyle habits, and supporting through processes of health behavior change. Her favorite parts about lifestyle medicine are getting to the root cause of disease, caring for the whole person, and helping patients discover their own strength and power in their health.

If you’re interested in a referral for Lifestyle Medicine, group medical visits, or health coaching, please speak to your provider.

Amyontheslopeswith herhusband,David

Network News

From Our Network Partners

• Franklin Memorial Hospital, Farmington

• LincolnHealth-Miles, Damariscotta

• MaineGeneral Medical Center, Augusta

• Maine Medical Center, Portland

• Memorial Hospital, North Conway, NH

• Mid Coast Hospital, Brunswick

• Pen Bay Medical Center, Rockport

• Southern Maine Health Care, Biddeford

• St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center, Lewiston

• Waldo County General Hospital, Belfast

• Western Maine Health, Norway

What’s New at Maine Medical Center

Survivors Month Recognition

On June 5th, survivors, caregivers and staff at the South Portland and Scarborough locations enjoyed a soft pretzel treat in the shape of an awareness ribbon courtesy of Plot Twist Pretzels.

Social worker Magda Alden helped distribute pretzels to survivors in South Portland.

Eileen Wilner (left) and Sarah Carter, APRN-FNP (right) from the Breast Care Center.

Hanna Mutrie, MA (left) and Karen Anderson, MA (right) from the Thoracic Oncology Clinic.

What’s New at Maine Medical Center

Breast Care Center Welcomes Advanced Practice Providers

From Sarah Carter: I decided that I wanted to become a nurse practitioner while I was working as a recovery room nurse at Maine Medical Center. I am very excited to now have the opportunity to use my nursing experience to help educate my patients about the treatment options which they may be offered. I appreciate being able to partner with my patients as well, to ensure that they have enough information to make informed decisions about the care they receive. When I am not working, you can find my husband and I finding new ways to explore the great state of Maine. We are always looking for new places to take our dog, so he too can enjoy the great outdoors. I love having the mountains, the beach, and all the best restaurants within a short drive from my home.

From Ali Thompson: I am so pleased to have recently joined the fabulous Breast Care Team at MaineHealth. I will be working alongside Dr. Jillian Smith to provide care to patients at both the Scarborough and Biddeford campuses. A little background about myself, I grew up in a military family, so have multiple places I call “home”, but most recently relocated to Maine from New York City where I completed my Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies at Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences. After graduation, I accepted a job working at New York Presbyterian Columbia as a transplant surgery PA. There, I found my passion for caring for patients around their surgical journeys. When I moved to Maine, I sought out this same opportunity. Working as a member of the Breast Care team has allowed me to continue to be a part of that surgical journey for patients, including assisting in the operating room, and ongoing post-operative care in the clinic. I have also loved taking on the responsibility of managing patients with benign breast conditions and those who are at elevated risk of developing breast cancer. I look forward to growing and learning more as a part of this incredible team. Thank you to all who have welcomed me thus far with open arms!

Sarah M Carter, APRN-FNP

Alexandra N Thompson, PA-C

What’s New at Maine Medical Center

GYN Oncology Care Welcomes Advanced Practice Providers

My name is Erin Gallagher, and I am a board certified family nurse practitioner (FNP). I was born and raised in Lowell, MA, where most of my family still resides. I graduated from Quinnipiac University in Connecticut with my BS in nursing and later, Simmons University with my MS in nursing. In my seven years as a registered nurse, I primarily worked with the pediatric oncology population at both Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital, and the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital/Maine Children’s Cancer Program.

During my FNP program, I was fortunate enough to do a clinical rotation with the MMP Gynecology Oncology group. I felt so privileged to have had gained that invaluable experience, and wanted more. After completing the FNP program, I began my career in primary care at a family practice in Augusta, ME. While this experience was instrumental in my early days as a new NP, I always knew I would find my way back to the oncology world. I joined the MMP Gynecology Oncology group in February of 2022, and finally feel that I am back home where I belong. This specialty has endless opportunities for education and growth, which excites me for the future of oncology. My goal is to empower these women with knowledge while providing compassionate, patient centered care.

When I am not spending time with my work family, you’ll find me looking for the next adventure out there, whether it be traveling or hiking. During the week, it’s rare to not find me at one of Maine’s beautiful beaches for sunset. I am so lucky to be able to say I love my job, and am hopeful that I’ll be able to see advancements in treatment options for these women in years to come!

My name is Madeline Brown (Palmer), most people call me Maddie. I am fairly new to the Maine Medical Partners gynecologic oncology practice in Scarborough, but have been working with oncology patients for about 8 years now. I was born in Brunswick, Maine and have lived in Scarborough most of my life. I graduated from the University of Maine with a bachelor’s of science in nursing and recently completed my masters at St. Joseph’s College of Maine and became a family nurse practitioner. I spent the early years of my career on the Gibson Pavilion at Maine Medical Center caring for medical and surgical oncology patients. I knew early on that I would likely work with oncology patients in some capacity for the rest of my career. I feel so privileged to work with our patients and to be on their team through their journey with cancer. When I am not at work I am usually spending time with my family or friends. I recently got married and my husband and I live in Scarborough, a few minutes away from the home I grew up in. We spend a lot of our time near or on the water around Portland, Midcoast and Downeast Maine. In the winter you can usually find us skiing or escaping the cold weather to visit my brother in Florida. I look forward to continuing my career here in Maine at GYN oncology and hope to continue to help oncology patients for years to come!

Erin Gallagher, FNP

Madeline Anne Palmer, FNP

MaineGeneral: Using Advanced Robotic Bronchoscopy Technology to Detect and Treat Lung Cancer Early

As a self-employed hair dresser for the past 48 years, Holly Humphrey said she “ingested a lot of things in my lungs over the years” through her occupation and also was a sometimes heavy smoker in the past. She eventually was diagnosed with emphysema, a lung condition in which the air sacs in the lungs are damaged, causing shortness of breath.

During a routine appointment, Toby Ostrov, PA-C, her primary care clinician at Four Seasons Family Practice, referred Humphrey for a LowDose CT (LDCT) scan for lung cancer in October because of her smoking history. That screening detected a small mass in the upper part of her lung, which led to an appointment with Dr. Arun Ranganath, who she had previously seen for her emphysema, to discuss obtaining a tissue sample to biopsy for cancer.

Dr. Ranganath, medical director for MaineGeneral Pulmonary and Critical Care, asked Humphrey if she would like to have her bronchoscopy done robotically, given the uniqueness of her medical condition and the availability of the technology. “I asked him if it would be difficult to get to the mass because of my emphysema and he told me he would be able to navigate so much easier with the robot and that it would allow him to get to places he otherwise could not get to,” she said. “He was so confident that I just said ‘Let’s roll.’”

Continued next

HollyHumphrey(right) and her daughterHayley Bickford (left)

Humphrey had the procedure at the Alfond Center for Health (ACH) in early November.

“Dr. Ranganath told us afterward that her procedure went well and that he was able to get a good specimen,” said Humphrey’s daughter Hayley Bickford. “He didn’t believe he could have done it without the robot.”

The biopsy confirmed that Humphrey had stage one lung cancer, which was treated through eight sessions of radiation therapy at the Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care (HACCC) that ended in January. She will have another scan in July as a follow up to her treatment.

What is robotic bronchoscopy?

Dr. ArunRanganath

Robotic bronchoscopy is the latest technology to detect lung cancer in patients at earlier, more treatable stages. MaineGeneral Pulmonary began offering the minimally invasive, robot-assisted technique in November 2022.

MaineGeneral is the first health system in Maine to use this diagnostic tool, which provides great stability and precision in obtaining tissue samples. Combined with low-dose CT, robotic bronchoscopy is a powerful tool in diagnosing lung cancer early.

Thankful for technology and expert care

“Everyone who was involved in my care was fantastic and Dr. Ranganath is a great guy,” Humphrey added. “I feel extremely privileged, honored and fortunate to be one of Dr. Ranganath’s first patients to have the robotic bronchoscopy procedure.” She also was moved by the response she received from the cancer center staff when she completed her radiation therapy.

“The last two treatments I had, I didn’t have my oxygen and I didn’t use a wheelchair to go into the center because I could breathe,” she said. “That was huge and the staff was so excited for me and made it a big deal.”

MaineGeneral is proud to provide patients with access to a complete set of services for state-of-the-art care, including diagnostic testing and treatment with specialists in thoracic surgery, medical and radiation oncology and interventional pulmonology, all on one campus. To learn more about robotic bronchoscopy or MaineGeneral’s lung cancer services, visit www.mainegeneral.org/lung-cancer.

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Cancer Rehabilitation

By Leah B. Taylor, MS OTR/L, CLT, CORE, Occupational Therapist, LincolnHealth – Miles Campus

By 2026, an estimated 20 million individuals living with a history of cancer are predicted in the United States. Although cancer detection and treatment have evolved to be more effective for many types of cancer, the majority of cancer survivors still experience cancer or cancer treatment-related side effects that could benefit from rehabilitation. As cancer is most likely to be diagnosed at an older age, many survivors already have other medical conditions and age-related changes that may pose additional challenges. Occupational therapy care for cancer survivors is intended to facilitate and help achieve maximum functional performance physically, psychologically, and socially in everyday living throughout all phases of cancer survivorship.

Occupational therapists have a significant understanding of cancer, and cancer treatment-related issues, in order to appreciate the unique challenges in working with cancer survivors. This includes reducing the impact of side effects of cancer, and its treatment, to help individuals improve and maintain their quality of life. It is important to separate the person from the cancer diagnosis in order to personalize rehabilitation treatment; therapists consider the whole person rather than just the disease. Therapists work with cancer survivors living with cancer in all phases and settings of treatment, including pre-habilitation, acute, inpatient, outpatient and home care, including palliative and hospice care.

There are many side effects that individuals may experience associated with cancer and cancer treatment including fatigue, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (e.g. nerve dysfunction primarily in the hands and feet), lymphedema, loss of range of motion, weakness, scar tissue, radiation fibrosis, and loss of function in activities of daily living. Some side effects are experienced immediately (acute effects), while others appear later in survivorship (late effects). Some side effects may resolve once treatment ends, while others may become long term. Rehabilitation can help to address many of these acute, late, or long term side effects.

Cancer-related fatigue can be described as physical, psychological and/or cognitive tiredness that can interfere with desired functional tasks. Problems associated with cancer-related fatigue can be seen as muscular weakness, postural changes, nutritional changes, and emotional distress that may interfere with personal, work and/or social activities. Occupational therapists can address fatigue issues through a number of screening processes to provide an individualized exercise program prescription, education in deep breathing and self-management techniques, and provide therapeutic listening to assist in problem solving with goals in completing desired tasks.

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is described as an inflammation or degeneration of the peripheral nerve fibers with symptoms that may include paresthesia, motor symptoms, tingling, and/or discomfort. Occupational therapists provide valuable information for managing CIPN with emphasis on fine motor skills, strengthening, and balance reeducation. Survivors may also be educated in cold therapy, self-massage techniques, deep pressure techniques with socks or gloves, as well as safety training and use of assistive devices.

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Cancer Rehabilitation

(Continued from previous)

Some cancer survivors are at risk for the development of lymphedema (a chronic swelling condition) that can negatively impact activities of daily living. The gold standard of care for lymphedema therapy is complex decongestive therapy (CDT), which consists of skin care, exercise, manual lymphatic drainage, and compression. Therapy for lymphedema is most often provided by occupational or physical therapists. While CDT is not a cure for lymphedema, it can help control the symptoms of edema, limb heaviness, skin changes from radiation fibrosis, decreased range of motion, and disfigurement. Occupational therapy incorporates strategies to address survivor needs, as well as collaborate with the care team for development of appropriate treatment plans to treat survivors through the continuum of care. The occupational therapist’s role in oncology rehabilitation through the survivorship continuum is a shift of focus from traditional rehabilitation to addressing quality of life, anticipating and setting goals for any future disability and equipment needs, providing family education and support, and recommending appropriate referrals to community resources, local support groups and supportive care services, and national organizations.

What’s New at Southern Maine Health Care

Sanford Cancer Care Welcomes Rebecca Tryon, LCSW

I knew from a young age that I wanted to help people in some way. This desire has led me in many different directions including supporting refugees new to Maine, assisting people to obtain and retain employment, and facilitating access to resources to support their families. I graduated from the University of Southern Maine with a BS in Sociology and then returned to USM and graduated with a Master of Social Work degree. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have supported adults involved in the criminal justice system work on past trauma, grief and loss, significant mental health diagnoses, and substance use. During this time, I was fortunate to be able to conduct research and publish two articles which demonstrated the importance of storytelling in the healing and recovery process. I am excited to learn and grow along with my new MaineHealth team. When not at work, I love to garden and spend time with my two adult daughters.

Tee Off Against Breast Cancer: Pink On The Links

The Biddeford-Saco Country Club Ladies, with the support of the members, board and staff, are proud to host this year’s 27th annual scramble. We team up with the SMHC Center for Breast Care in order to pair with a local facility where patients who want to stay close to home can still receive the same level of care. We feel like this is a good match for our goal of raising funds to fight breast cancer in our community. Breast cancer is an unwelcome visitor in any woman’s life. Join us in a day of support for all that have been touched by this disease. Over the past 11 years, we have raised over $148,000 to support this important cause.

When: July 21, 2023

Where: Biddeford-Saco Country Club 101 Old Orchard Road, Saco

If you have questions, please call our event chair: Laura Blanchette: 207-423-3517 or lblanchette114@gmail.com

Visit our Pink on the Links Facebook page for updates and photos!

Rebecca Tryon,LCSW

What’s New at Western MaineHealth

Cancer Resource Navigator Provides Health & Wellness

Coaching at Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine

For the past year, Barb Perry, RN, has worked at the Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine as a Cancer Resource Navigator, meeting individually with cancer patients and their families from western Maine to provide psychosocial support and address basic needs. Barb works collaboratively with Stephanie LeBlond, LSW, a part-time oncology social worker at the CRCofWM. Both positions are made possible via grant funding.

“We were excited to have Barb join our team,” said Diane Madden, executive director of the Center, which was established in 2015 to provide free wellness and supportive

resources to individuals and families in western Maine affected by cancer. “Barb’s experience as clinician, and most recently managing a cancer survivorship program, not only benefits patients and families facing the daily physical, emotional and financial challenges of cancer, but has a positive impact in advancing the Center’s mission to ensure that no-one faces cancer alone.”

For over 20 years, Barb worked as a Nurse Practitioner in a number of different settings with various populations. She then assisted in the development and management of Maine’s State-wide Tobacco Treatment Training Program for health professionals, administered by MaineHealth. She went on to become certified as a Tobacco Treatment Specialist and managed both the inpatient Tobacco Treatment Program at Maine Medical Center and an outpatient clinic at MaineHealth. More recently, Barb managed the Cancer Survivorship Program for MaineHealth and was involved in a variety of activities to improve comprehensive survivorship care and the overall quality of life for cancer survivors. As a Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Barb has participated as a wellness provider in the Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine’s Live Well Program since fall 2021,

providing individual wellness coaching and offering the “Finding Your New Normal” class for patients who are or have recently completed treatment. Barb Perry, RN, Certified Health & Wellness Coach can be reached at 207890-0205 or bperry@crcofwm.org.

BarbPerry,RN

Resources & Quarterly Calendar

New Resources Guide Available

In collaboration with our navigation and social work teams, and our community partners, a new resources guide has been developed. Our goal is to provide helpful local, regional, and national sources of information and support. Click HERE to access the guide.

Learning Resource Center: Lending Library

Browse eBooks, audiobooks and more. We are always adding new ones!

OverDrive is our virtual library where you can check out eBooks and audiobooks and download them to your device. Email us your name and mailing address at learningcenter@mainehealth.org for a library card number. If you’d like to see more books about a certain health topic, please let us know!

Eating Hints: Before, during, and after Cancer Treatment (EBOOK)

By the National Cancer Institute

This booklet explains ways that you can prepare to eat well before cancer treatment. It covers common types of eating problems you may experience during cancer treatment and suggests ways to manage them. And once treatment is over, it offers suggestions for returning to healthy eating.

What to Eat During Cancer Treatment: 100 Great-Tasting, Family-Friendly Recipes to Help You Cope (EBOOK)

by Jeanne Besser and Kristina Ratley

This cookbook contains 100 fast, flavorful recipes to help both patient and caregiver prepare satisfying meals to combat some of the side effects of treatment. Recipes are organized by side effects and include Brie and Apple Grilled Cheese to deal with nausea, Lemon Egg-Drop Soup for diarrhea, Blueberry-Peach Crisp for constipation, a Sherbet Shake for sore mouth, and Honey-Teriyaki Salmon for taste alterations.

Survivors Are Giving Back

Deb Cupo’s life changed when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021. During such a challenging time, she was grateful to her care team. It moved her to give back, as well as pay it forward to those facing their own cancer. She and Joel Harris started the annual Drive Fore The Cure events to support essential investments in the MaineHealth Cancer Care Network’s ability to provide the highest level of care available for all people seeking care in Maine.

Deb combines her love for golf with her passion for improving cancer care for other Mainers.

The community-building and fundraising success of the gala and tournament at Falmouth Country Club inspires us to continue. Learn more about this summer’s events:

www.driveforethecuremaine.com

_______________________ If

Eliza Warren Giberson Cancer Care Philanthropy Liaison

When: Thursday, August 31st - Sunday, September 3rd, 2023.

Where: The YA Cancer Camp will be in Western Pennsylvania at YMCA Camp Kon-O-Kwee Spencer.

Deadline to Register:July 31st but will close once 100 campers register!

More information: https://yacancercamp. org/

When and where will the 2023 Move4Her Event be held?

Move4Her is a year-long campaign to raise critical funds to help eradicate gyn cancer. The 2023 Move4Her in-person celebration event will be held in Washington DC, as well as virtually on Saturday, September 23, 2023, from 10:30am-12pm ET. More information to come so be sure to sign up for updates at www.Move4Her.com

A Family Gives Back

A normal day can cease in a heartbeat. That day came when Maddie Smart was diagnosed with leukemia while home for spring break. Her family rushed to Maine Medical Center (MMC) knowing nothing more.

From their first encounter with an MMC oncology nurse, the family knew they were in the most caring of hands.

Maddie survived 13 months. She lived life to the fullest before the cancer returned, but was unable to defeat it a second time. The one constant was the care and compassion of the nurses, something the Smarts now honor through an endowed fund at MMC: The Maddie Kate Fund as a way of giving back in meaningful ways.

The Fund’s primary fundraiser is the annual Maine Marathon. Runners raise money via the MKF Run Club, and anyone can give.

Honoring Nurses

The Smart family like many others who experience cancer wanted to express their gratitude for the outstanding care provided by oncology and critical care nurses who saw Maddie and their family through cancer together.

Learn how you can support

The Maddie Kate Fund at: mkfrun.club/maddiekate

If you’d like to share your own gratitude story or find ways to get involved, contact: Eliza

Warren Giberson

Eliza.Giberson@mainehealth.org

(207) 662-3829

We would like to thank our donors and grant funders for their generous support of the MaineHealth Cancer Care Network and the patients and families we serve.