John Theurer Cancer Center Donor Impact Report

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DONOR IMPACT REPORT

John Theurer Cancer Center

CLINICAL RESEARCH FELLOWS DISCOVER NOVEL THERAPIES

Knowing that she wanted to become an oncologist since her medical school days, Sarvarinder Gill, M.D., decided to pursue an oncology fellowship at Hackensack Meridian John Theurer Cancer Center. Having completed her residency at Hackensack Meridian Hackensack University Medical Center, she knew that the experience would enable her to grow clinically and contribute to the development of new treatments for our patients. To Dr. Gill, research and patient care go hand in hand, and she appreciates the opportunity to change patient lives in a place where she feels like part of a family.

“The field of Hematology Oncology is rapidly evolving, and this fellowship allows me to be part of great advances happening, whether it is taking care of patients enrolled in Phase I or novel cell-based therapies, being part of new gene therapy programs or having the opportunity to collaborate to take care of patients.”

SARVARINDER GILL, M.D. Fellow, Hematology and Oncology John Theurer Cancer Center

An Oasis of Calm Offers Relief

John Theurer Cancer Center’s outside patios are peaceful, tranquil areas, offering patients, visitors and team members a place to relax and recharge. By incorporating plants and nature throughout their design, as well as spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, these comforting escapes effectively combat the stress of being a patient, working through a family member’s illness or working as a health care provider. The terrace garden also features vegetables and herbs that supply John Theurer Cancer Center dietitians who lead oncology-focused cooking classes at the center’s on-site teaching kitchen for the community. These areas bring peace to all visitors, and we are grateful to our donors for their compassionate support.

Housing Services Help Families During Challenging Times

Getting the best care sometimes means cancer patients must travel to hospitals far from home, oftentimes placing an extra emotional and financial burden on patients and caregivers during an already challenging juncture. Fortunately, donor support to John Theurer Cancer Center funds lodging expenses for patients and families, alleviating stress, especially during extended periods of treatment. This allows patients and loved ones to focus on recovery and spend memorable time together without the burden of housing costs.

Keeping Current on the Latest Advances in Breast Cancer

John Theurer Cancer Center’s Breast Oncology Division’s annual recap of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium presents the most important lectures to educate John Theurer Cancer Center team members as well as all health professionals in the tri-state area. This sharing of valuable information helps develop better breast cancer programs and benefits the patients of today and for years to come. We are grateful to our donors who help us provide this critical information.

COMFORT KITS BRING CELEBRATIONS TO PATIENTS

Because of our kind donors, the Surprise and Delight Committee at John Theurer Cancer Center is able to spread a bit of joy to a difficult time by distributing comfort kits to patients during the holidays or other special occasions. Many times, celebrating holidays and other milestones may take a backseat to the immediate needs surrounding medical care and treatment. These occasions deserve celebration, as they offer a sense of normalcy and happiness during a difficult time. Comfort kits include special items such as balloons and small treats to help create celebrations and bring smiles to many faces.

PRECISION MEDICINE AND CLINICAL RESEARCH COMBAT CANCER

At John Theurer Cancer Center, our precision medicine approach to treating cancer begins with genetic testing, enabling us to match patients with a clinical trial designed to more effectively combat each patient’s exact type of cancer with fewer side effects

Patients also benefit from one of the nation’s leading clinical research programs at John Theurer Cancer Center. Representing nearly onethird of our cancer research, clinical trials allow our patients to receive exciting and innovative cancer therapies before anyone else. These trials offer hope to patients who may have been told there are no treatment options, or whose cancer has not responded to standard treatment. We are grateful to our donors whose meaningful support helps so many.