A Steadfast Commitment by Dr. Generosa Grana, MD · 2 SURVIVOR TIMES • Volume 5, Issue 12 Welcome to Volume 5, issue 12 of the Survivor Times — a newsletter for cancer survivors,

A newsletter for cancer survivors, by cancer survivors.Sponsored by The Dr. Diane Barton Complementary Medicine Program.

wslettter fffor er survivors, cance bbyvors, y cancer survivory cance rvivorrs.rrs.r

A Steadfast Commitment by Dr. Generosa Grana, MD

VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 12

Letter from the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Signature Class Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Complementary Med Programs . . . . . . .4Support Group Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Oh What a Ride it Was . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6New Cancer Center Opens . . . . . . . . . . . .7

goes “above and beyond” for our patientsevery day.

In addition, I’m proud to say that Coop-er’s cancer program offers more supportivecare services to our patients that most oth-er cancer programs in our region. One of theseprograms has a special place in my heart —the Dr. Diane Barton Complementary Medi-cine Program. As many of you know, Dr. Diane Barton was a dear friend of mine. Dur-ing her struggle with ovarian cancer Diane’svision was to create a program where patients’could find the support and strength they need-ed to “complement” the extraordinary clin-ical care they received — care for their mind,

Dr. Generosa Grana

body and spirit. In her honor we created thisremarkable program.

I miss my friend, but I am comforted know-ing that we enter the tenth year since its cre-ation, we have honored Diane every daythrough this program — touching the lives ofhundreds of patients and their caregivers bybringing them hope, serenity, strength,friendship, and support.

As I look ahead, with all of the changescoming to Cooper’s cancer program — ourrelationship with MD Anderson CancerCenter, the opening of our new building inCamden, the renovations and expansion ofservices at our Voorhees location, the won-derful changes that will be made to our in-patient unit and our ventures into commu-nities that extend beyond our traditional serv-ice areas, I know that there will be a grow-ing need for the Dr. Diane Barton Comple-mentary Medicine Program.

Our commitment to this program issteadfast — it is and always will be a centralcomponent to the work we do every day. Wehope you take advantage of all this programhas to offer.

Crossword Puzzle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8My Angel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9This is My Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Cancer Saved My Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Hollywood Cancer Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Recipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Our commitment to thisprogram is steadfast — it isand always will be a centralcomponent to the work wedo every day. We hope youtake advantage of all this

program has to offer.

In August 1994, I came to Cooper as a veryyoung and very idealistic oncologist, freshout of training at Fox Chase Cancer Center.At the time I was focused on moving forwardon three areas that I was more interested inand had explored in my training — breast can-cer, cancer genetics and community outreachto underserved populations. Little did I knowthat I would be part of a team that has grownfar beyond my goals and expectations, andtoday, is one of the region’s leading cancerprograms.

Eight years ago, I took over the leadershipof Cooper Cancer Institute with a talented, visionary and dedicated team by my side, andI am very proud of what we have accom-plished. Physicians, nurses and staff from avariety of departments and divisions havecome together to form a true multidiscipli-nary team and have created a unified iden-tity focused on the needs of our patients andour community.

Today our region turns to Cooper for theprevention, detection and treatment of alltypes of cancer. We offer a full range of dis-ease-site specific cancer programs. We havea robust clinical research program, a dedicatedcancer outreach and prevention program, andan advanced cancer genetics and high riskprogram. We have recruited outstandingphysician specialists across all cancer spe-cialties. We utilize some of the most advanceddiagnostic and treatment technologies avail-able. We have outstanding nurses working inour outpatient centers and inpatient unit, andan administrative and support staff team that

in this issue:

2 SURVIVOR TIMES • Volume 5, Issue 12

Welcome to Volume 5, issue 12 of the Survivor Times — anewsletter for cancer survivors, by cancer survivors.As we enter our tenth year of the Dr. Diane Barton Com-

plementary Medicine program I am humbled by how far we havecome from the days of the inception of our program. Dr. Di-ane Barton, my friend and mentor was a true visionary. Herhonorable legacy lives on each day through the hundreds ofcancer survivors that experience and benefit from this valu-able program. If you are reading this newsletter, or have attendedeven one of the unique programs offered throughout the pastten years, then you have benefitted from her noble gift.

I feel honored to have Dr. Generosa Grana, Director of theCooper Cancer Institute, contribute and write the front pagearticle for this special edition of the Survivor Times.John Quin-cy Adams said “If your actions inspire others to dream more,learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” Thisquote directly applies to Dr. Grana and her dedication to allthose that work with her; including her patients and life-sav-ing work. One thing is for certain… at the helm of Cooper Can-cer Institute Dr. Grana leads by example; and is an inspirationto us all.

This edition of the Survivor Times encompasses heart-warming and inspirational stories from cancer survivors living

with cancer, living through cancer and living beyond cancer.Whatever stage you fall under, the common denominator

is quality of life. It is with this focus in mind that the Dr. Di-ane Barton Complementary Medicine program at Cooper Can-cer Institute is committed to providing cancer survivors withaccess to an array of complementary medicine experiences.

Our programs are designed to help survivors discover waysto cope with the stress and anxiety of their diagnosis, and toalleviate some of the side effects of their treatment by focusingon healing the mind, body and spirit.

My goal through this program is to bring together, empowerand engage cancer survivors to incorporate complementarymedicine options into their lives.

If you would like to submit an article, please contactme at [email protected].

Bonnie MehrEditor, Survivor TimesManager, the Dr. Diane Barton Complementary Medicine ProgramCooper Cancer Institute

Be a Monthly Sponsor of the Tea Cart Your donations of ShopRite giftcards are appreciated. We haveexpanded the tea cart in Voorheesto 5 days per week!

Every delicious snack given to our patientswhile they are receiving their chemo is

given from the heart. Our patients are alwayspleasantly surprised when sitting in the out-patient chemo unit for hours and perhapsfeeling a little down, when a beautiful flow-ered cart filled with free juices and snacks,program updates and the Survivor Times, andmany more surprises, comes along andserves them a little spot of sunshine. It’s aninspirational initiative through the Dr. DianeBarton Complementary Medicine Program

along with Cooper Cancer Institute em-ployees that voluntarily give up part of theirlunch time to make a positive difference inthe quality of each patient’s journey. Itserves as a testament of the spirit that de-fines Cooper Cancer Institute’s commit-ment in providing Excellence in Patient &Family–Centered Care.

For more information please contact; Bonnie Mehr,

Manager, the Dr. Diane Barton Complementary Medicine Program

at 856.325.6646 or [email protected]

You may mail your ShopRite gift card donations to:

Attn: Bonnie MehrCooper Cancer Institute2017 Piazza Main Street

Voorhees, NJ 08043

Letter from the Editor:

Dr. Diane Barton, my friend and mentor was a truevisionary. Her honorable legacy lives on each daythrough the hundreds of cancer survivors thatexperience and benefit from this valuable program.

Dr. Diane Barton

Volume 5, Issue 12 • SURVIVOR TIMES 3

T H E D R . D I A N E B A R T O N C O M P L E M E N TA R Y M E D I C I N E P R O G R AM

OCTOBER–DECEMBER 2013

Signature Class S E R I E SA FREE series of classes for cancer patients and their caregivers.

YOGA STRETCH FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Yoga Stretch for Cancer Survivors is especially beneficial for people with flexibility limitations due to a variety ofdegenerative conditions, as well as those recovering from surgery.

DATES: October 1 & 29; November 5; December 3

TIME: 12 P.M. – 1 P.M.LOCATION: Town Square Building

931 Centennial Blvd., Voorhees, NJ 08043

QI GONG

Qi Gong is a modality several centuries old using movement andbreath as a way to increase, harness and move the Vital Energythat is within and around us. It can increase focus, improvebalance and flexibility, increase circulation, and relax you.

DATES: October 8 & 22; November 12; December 10

TIME: 12 P.M. – 1 P.M.LOCATION: Town Square Building


MEDITATION FOR RELAXATION

Join practitioner Jo Anna Carey and you will be led on ajourney of self-discovery through the deeply relaxing practiceof meditation for the purpose of nurturing and supportingyourself through life’s stresses and joys. Enjoy experiencing avariety of meditation techniques and breathing exercises.

DATE: October 15TIME: 12 P.M. – 1 P.M.

LOCATION: Town Square Building931 Centennial Blvd., Voorhees, NJ 08043

Pre-registration is required for all workshops. Please call: 1.800.8.COOPER (1.800.826.6737).

You can also register for these classes online at events.CooperHealth.org

Please note that workshops are subject to cancellation due to inclement weather.

LIVE & LEARN

A New Perspective for the Cancer Patient

TIME: 11:30 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.LOCATION: Town Square Building


• Thursday, October 24, 2013: 50 Food Tips that Will Enhance Your Health:Cooper Cancer Institute’s Expert Oncology nutritionist, Alicia Michaux, MS, RD.PRESENTED BY: Alicia Michaux, MS, RDOutpatient Oncology DietitianCooper Cancer Institute

• Thursday, November 14, 2013: Kick Start the Holiday Season… Come Make Something from the Heart:A special Creative Arts for Healing class offers you theopportunity to choose from a variety of different projectsto make.

FACILITATOR: Andrea Meehan

• Thursday, December 12, 2013: Annual Holiday Party:for Cancer Survivors only. Please feel free to bring a dessert for all to share. Limited space available, so please register.

Complementary Medicine ProgramT H E D R . D I A N E B A R T O N

Location:Town Square Building, 931Centennial Blvd., Voorhees, NJ 08043

Time: 11:00 a.m. –12:30 p.m.

Dates:• October 9: Fall Centerpieces• October 23: Affirmation Bracelets• November 6: Decoupage• December 20: Ceramic OrnamentsThis class is free for cancer survivors and there is no cost for materials. Please register for each class so the appropriate number of supplies can be provided. Please call:

1.800.8.COOPER (1.800.826.6737).You can also register online at events.cooperhealth.org.

Therapeutic Massage & Reflexology DaysAttention all cancer survivors: Come enjoy the mindbody spirit benefits of therapeutic chair massage andreflexology.

Dates: October 8 & 22; November 5 & 19; December 10

Time: 9:30 a.m. –1:00 p.m.

Location: Town Square Building931 Centennial Blvd., Voorhees, NJ 08043

2 0 1 3


Bonnie’s Book ClubA story is always better if you have someone to share itwith… what could be better than sharing it with a groupof friends who have read it too?

• October 23: The Time Keeperby Mitch Albom

• November 20: Freedomby Jonathan Franzen

Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Location: Town Square Building, 931 Centennial Blvd.Voorhees, NJ 08043

This book club is for cancer survivors. If you have any questions or need additional information please contact Bonnie Mehr at 856.325.6646


World Class Care. Right Here. Right Now.George E. Norcross, III, ChairmanJoan S. Davis, Vice ChairmanJohn P. Sheridan, Jr., President and CEO 2013

Support Group Series

US TOO Prostate Lecture SeriesThis will be a presentation led by medical profession-als on the diagnosis, treatment options, and manage-ment of prostate diseases. There will be ample time toask questions and share experiences. Significant oth-ers are invited to attend.

DATES: November 12TIME: 6 — 7:30 p.m.

LOCATION: 900 Centennial BoulevardBuilding #1, Suite L Conference RoomVoorhees, NJ 08043

My Genes, My RiskIndividuals with a hereditary predisposition to cancercan often feel overwhelmed by their risk and the num-ber of options that face them in an attempt to reducetheir risks. This genetics support group will offer asafe place for patients to discuss these issues and tomeet other patients who share similar concerns. Thegroup is designed for people at high risk of cancer dueto their genetic status and their family members whowish to learn more.

DATES: October 1 TIME: 6 — 7:30 p.m.


Brain Tumor Support Group A new support group for people with brain tumors andthose who care about them. We will offer informationabout brain tumors, treatments and an opportunity tomeet with other survivors.

DATES: November 6, December 4TIME: 6 p.m.

LOCATION: The Ripa Center for Women’s Health& Wellness, 1011 Main Street,Voorhees, NJ 08043

LLS Multiple Myeloma GroupThis group is for myeloma patients and their lovedones. All are welcome.

DATES: October 28, November 25, December 23TIME: 10 — 11:30 a.m.


Latino Cancer Survivors Cancer information and support for you and your family. Free refreshments and parking.

DATES: October 10, November 14, December 12

TIME: 11 a.m. — 1:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Cooper University HospitalRoberts Pavilion, 10th FloorRoom 1005(except 12/12 to be held in room 1014)Camden, NJ 08103

For more info and to register please call: Jackie Tubens at 856.673.4256 or Evelyn Robles Rodriguez at 856.968.7315

Sister Will You Help Me (Willingboro)A breast cancer support group for women of color andfaith. The group’s mission is to em power throughknowledge, encourage through sisterhood, enlightenthrough faith and to bond through love.

DATES: November 7, December 5

TIME: 6 — 7:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Willingboro Public Library 220 Willingboro ParkwayWillingboro, NJ 08046

Sister Will You Help Me (Camden)A breast cancer support group for women of color andfaith. The group’s mission is to em power throughknowledge, encourage through sisterhood, enlightenthrough faith and to bond through love. Join us for anexciting sister session on the 2nd Thursday of eachmonth.


TIME: 6 — 7:30 p.m.

LOCATION: One Cooper PlazaPavilion, 10th Floor, Room 1014Camden, NJ 08103

To register for these support groups, please call 1.800.8.COOPER (1.800.826.6737) or register online at events.cooperhealth.org. Call 1.800.8.COOPER for cancellation due to inclement weather.

Young Women with Breast Cancer (YSC)A support group meeting for all young breast cancersurvivors, whether newly diagnosed, still goingthrough treatment, past treatment and trying to findyour new “normal,” or a long-term survivor. Anyone in-terested in connecting with other breast cancer pa-tients/survivors is welcome to come! For more infor-mation and to register please contact: Michelle Esserat [email protected].


TIME: 6:30 p.m.

LOCATION: The Ripa Center for Women’s Health & Wellness, 1011 Main StreetVoorhees, NJ 08043

Breast Cancer Support GroupA new support group for women with breast cancerand those who care about them. We will offer informa-tion about breast cancer, treatments, and an opportu-nity to meet with other survivors. The group sessionswill provide emotional support as well as strategies forcoping.

DATES: November 5, December 3

TIME: 6:30 — 8 p.m.

LOCATION 900 Centennial BoulevardBuilding #1, Suite L Conference RoomVoorhees, NJ 08043

Gynecologic Cancer Patient and Family Support GroupAt this support group gyn cancer survivors and thepeople who love them meet to share their personal ex-periences, exchange information, and offer emotionalsupport to each other. Each session features a speakerwho leads a discussion on topics ranging from nutri-tion and exercise, to cancer genetics and psychologicalwell-being during illness.


TIME: 2:30 — 4 p.m.

LOCATION: The Ripa Center for Women’s Health& Wellness, 1011 Main Street,Voorhees, NJ 08043

Oh What a Ride it Was! by Louise Sloan Flannery

Louise Flannery

(continued on page 10)

About The Dr. Diane BartonComplementary MedicineProgram

The Dr. Diane Barton Complementary MedicineProgram enhances the quality of life and

wellness of individuals touched by cancer — in-cluding patients, their caregivers and family.

It utilizes therapies that focus on mind,body and spirit while supporting mainstreammedical care. The complementary therapies of-fered through CCI are designed to lessen thepain, stress and anxiety associated with cancer.Therapies also assist in managing the side ef-fects of traditional treatments such as radiationand chemo-therapy. While complementary ther-apies cannot cure cancer, many patients havefound them to be helpful in managing and cop-ing with their cancer. While traditional medicineand healthcare treat the illness, complementa-ry medicine therapies help promote wellness inthe whole person.

In addition to the therapeutic benefits, tak-ing part in complementary medicine therapiesempowers participants — providing survivorswith an opportunity to take a positive, activerole in their care and treatment.

All therapies and programs offered throughthe Dr. Diane Barton Complementary MedicineProgram are available at no cost and are opento all cancer patients and their caregivers, re-gardless of where they receive their treatment.These programs, lectures and activities offerpatients access to social, educational and sup-port opportunities. Programs are offered week-ly throughout the year. Our outpatient comple-mentary medicine programs include:

•Restorative Yoga•Therapeutic Chair Massage •Meditation for Relaxation•Qi Gong•Body Movement Classes•Behavioral Health Workshops•Creative Arts•The Tea Cart (brought to outpatients while receiving chemotherapy)•Educational Seminars•Horticultural Therapy

This program is wholly funded throughphilanthropic support. As the reputationand demand for our programs and servicesgrow, so does our need for funding. If youare interested in learning more about TheDr. Diane Barton Complementary MedicineProgram or would like to make a donation,please contact, Bonnie Mehr, Program Manager, at 856.325.6646.


The year 2013 is proving to be an intro-spective year for me: a milestone birth-

day and I recently celebrated my 10th yearof being cancer free. It’s not unusual whenyou receive a diagnosis of cancer to won-der how much time do you have left to liveand what do you want to do with your time,and then all of a sud-den (or so it seems)the years havepassed and you arecelebrating, like me,10 years of freedomfrom cancer andwhat to do to markthis momentous occasion.

A lot has hap-pened in 10 years:We are a family thatlikes to celebrate allthe usual family hol-idays and birthdays. Whatever the holidaybeing observed was the one I liked the best.I especially enjoy Thanksgiving when all thefamily gathers together to give thanks forall our blessings and to eat a huge feast ofdelicious food. And you don’t have to shop

for any gifts!And then there

were the gradua-tions. I attendedall that I could,clapping andbeaming and giving my loveand support. The

end results

were amazing, producing: a professional win-dow installer, a chef/baker, an Army combatmedic, a teacher, an actor, a doctor, a policeofficer with a master’s degree, a navy elec-tronics specialist, a nursing school student,and last but not least a high school basket-ball star. Am I a proud grand mom? You bet

I am. Of course ittook my three greatkids to produce suchwonderful youngmen and women asthese.

We also hadthree weddings: onegrandson in 2006,one grandson in 2010and one grand-daughter in 2011.

The passing ofmy oldest sister lastOctober was bal-

anced by the birth of my first great grand-son in July of 2012 and we had an addedbonus of the birth of my second greatgrandson this past May. I am so grateful ourfamily has been so blessed.

Travel to faraway places, was a big partof my life when I was younger but in the lastten years, I stayed closer to home, enjoy-ing trips to the Jersey shore and I havemade my annual Easter trip to Pittsburghto visit my daughter and family. I did trav-el to California this past April with my sis-ter to help celebrate our younger brother’s50th wedding anniversary.

Recalling the events of the previous tenyears became the catalyst that started methinking what sort of legacy I wanted toleave my family. (Sorry kids, there’s nohouse at the shore (yet) nor a big pile ofmoney. My thoughts kept coming back tothe family members who lived and died be-fore I was born. I regret I never knew anyof my grandparents. My paternal grand-mother passed away when I was a baby andjust when my curiosity was aroused aboutmy other ancestors, both my parents weredead and gone, along with a lot of familyhistory. I was left with a lot of questions butno one to give me any answers. What didmy forebears look like? What were someof their traits? Do I resemble anyone?Maybe I would discover some of myquirks were inherited from Un-cle Harry or Grand mom He-len. I don’t want this to

Writing about your past isan interesting and reflective

undertaking and Irecommend it to people of a“certain age” to remember

all the good things thathappened along with the

so-called “bad” things thatusually turned into

opportunities.

After many years of planning, design andconstruction, Cooper will open the can-

cer center on the Health Sciences Campusin Camden this October.

The new four-story $100 million CancerCenter will offer expanded programsand services in an environment that fos-ters a team approach to cancer care. Physi-cians from various medical disciplines(e.g. medical oncology, radiation oncolo-gy surgical oncology, gynecologic oncol-ogy, and urology) will conduct concurrent,clinical sessions, fostering professionalinteraction and collaboration.

The building will be home to the mostadvanced diagnostic and imaging tech-nology available, state-of-the-art examand procedure rooms, treatment areas, anda chemotherapy infusion suite as well asa full range of supportive care services.

In addition to the advanced clinical en-vironment, the building will feature a two-story open lobby with cascading naturallight, creating a welcoming environmentfor patients and their families. Thought-fully cur ated artwork, including an illu-minated Tree of Life in the lobby, will promotehealing and a scenic, outdoor TranquilityGarden will provide patients and familieswith a retreat to relax in a calm and peace-ful environment.

Health education, outreach and screen-ing programs will be available on-site tohelp build a healthier community.

In addition to its new home in Camden,Cooper Cancer Institute will continue toprovide outstanding multidisciplinarycare at its locations in Voorhees and Willingboro.

New Cancer Center Opens in October!

The building features:

• Two linear accelerators and a highdose brachytherapy unit• PET/CT scanner• 18 chemotherapy infusion bays and2 private infusion rooms• Clinical research space•Modern, spacious and comfortableexam and treatment rooms•Conference space for educationprograms• Café• Complimentary valet parking • Tranquility Garden



ACROSS1 Came across a record concerning

journalist6 Language of old city belonging to

the French

9 They’ll get wrongly blamed for headingoff escape by animals

10 There’s potato in Mum’s pudding12 Style of cooking providing contrasts

(three words)

15 Country-loving Irishman in charge ofcontaining disturbance

17 Giving note to terrorists makes oneangry

18 One who latches on to another is asucker

19 Sailor’s intent perhaps is to be self-restrained

20 A comment sure upset in dueproportion

24 Man told to get on his knees?25 Boundary rope may produce such a

decision26 e.g. dogs returning from walk27 Not quite one’s best friend on the

ship (two words)

DOWN1 Pretty girl gets some food2 Animal found in sea location3 Fat little Edward is biased4 Awaken memories5 The thresholds of delights7 Heartless robbers go off with a pet.

The villains! 8 Below, below, below 11 Managed to get clergyman in dead

awkward situation 13 They are seeking work after

demolition of aspic plant 14 Steam railway takes on head of

Railtrack to improve efficiency 16 To perform in a different key, one's

parts must be arranged21 Went on horseback round cowboy

show22 Junk mail from the capital23 Nothing but a lake

SOLUTION

Crossword Puzzle1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10

11

12

13 14

15 16 17

18 19

20 21

22 23

24 25

26 27

Robin Wilson-Smith, DO was to be-come MY ANGEL. Of course, she does-n’t have wings, but she has a gift of mak-ing you feel very special. When I’m in herpresence a peace comes over me. She isdetailed in her explanations. She takes timeto discuss the options I have, and she as-sures you that if one chemotherapy does-n’t work, there are many more to try; wewon’t stop until we find theright one. Her dedication ex-tends beyond the office or thewalls of Cooper. She hasreached out to contact me athome to check on how I’m do-ing. That one deed came at atime that was important to meand I doubt if Dr. Wilson-Smithhad any idea how that callmade me feel.

Dr. Wilson-Smith was put tothe test with me. Several of thechemotherapies tried didn’twork. My CA125 continued toincrease. She assured me we

(continued on page 10)

Receiving the diagnosis of Stage 4 Ovar-ian Cancer was so devastating to me, at

the time of hearing the diagnosis all of mysenses went numb, instead of hearing can-cer, I heard death. This reaction was not outof the ordinary and was soon followed by lotsof crying and questioning what I could havedone better in my life to ward off this disease.Realistically, it was too late to ward off can-cer, I had it, and I needed to learn how to livemy life knowing I have cancer. Believing I stillhave much to accomplish in my life, I’m notready to give up. Perhaps I need to reach outand influence others who are traveling theroad I’ve been down, and to reassure themthat there is hope even if you hit a few bumpsand detours.

I was making progress with my chemother-apy. My CA125 was reaching normal levels andI was ecstatic. This joy lasted about 6 monthsand suddenly, my CA125 began to increase. Atthis point, depression and doubt began to takeover. I was giving up hope, lost my enthusiasm,lost my optimism and reached that very lowpoint in a cancer patient’s struggle where youjust want to be left alone.

Dr. Robin Wilson-Smithwith Elizabeth Dillmann

by Elizabeth A. Dillmann, Ovarian Cancer PatientMy Angel

This Is My Story by Valerie Jones Rouse

Ifelt a small knot as small as a ball bearing. It was almost 2 months before I called mylifelong friend Lillian Ubarry; from Cooper Cancer Screening. She got me in as soonas she could the next week when someone cancelled… then I got a mammogram. Wellit was what I did not want to hear… breast cancer.

I screamed and hollered and eventually calmed down. I must say I was veryscared and lost.

I then went to go see Dr. Generosa Grana from Cooper Cancer Institute. Wow…she treated me like she knew me forever and sat by my side in a chair. She is won-derful with people and was an angel to me.

And then there are so many tests to take… you wonder what is left for them tobe looking for? But, I felt like I was in good hands so whatever they asked me to doI did! My husband made all my appointments and eventually everyone knew his namebetter than mine. My family, my friends and my church were amazing and great sup-port. I’m so blessed, thank God almighty for them all.There are so many people to thank… like the chemotherapy nurses… all wonderful,capable professionals.

I would like to especially thank Lisa McLaughlin, the oncology social worker. Lisawas truly God sent to me… She really knew her stuff, and continues to be a hugesupport to me.

I went through radiation and after 12 weeks they called me with great news!I had nothing in my lymph nodes. I have such appreciation for Dr. Hender-shott who was so cool and calm and such a gem. I love my cancer supportgroup “Sister Will You Help Me “under the leadership of Dianne Hyman.God bless you all at Cooper Cancer Institute for saving my life and giving

my husband great joy to have me around longer.I encourage every woman young and old to get your yearly mammo-

grams! God Bless.

Valerie Rouse andLisa McLaughlin


Dr. Robin Wilson-Smith and family at CCI’s Annual Survivor’s Day Celebration.


Dorothy Bloodworth

happen to my family. That's when theidea of writing a family history came tomind. I know there are a lot of facts andhappenings that occurred in the pastthat my family may not be aware of. IfI don’t write it, who will? While I havemultiple albums of family pictures, to-day’s technology has pictures stored incameras and computers but rarelytaken out to be studied. I wanted myfamily and future generations to knowwhat grand mom looked like at age 75and cancer free for 10 years. So I de-cided to have a professional photo tak-en to be shared with family along withthe written history of my life. Perhapsby the time I have finished all my ru-minations, I might have a book. Whoknows?

Writing about your past is an in-teresting and reflective undertaking andI recommend it to people of a “certainage” to remember all the good thingsthat happened along with the so-called“bad” things that usually turned into op-portunities.

Usually I don’t give advice unless Iam asked but I came across an inter-esting quote by a prosperity author, Wal-lace D Wattle, that I thought might proveuseful: “Never take less than the verybest that can be had at the presenttime; but do not waste energy by de-siring what cannot be had at the pres-ent time.”

Oh What a Ride it Was!(continued from page 8)

would find the right one. Allergic re-actions, skin rashes and a multitude ofother negative reactions were facedweek after week. And then, Dr. Wilson-Smith walked into the examinationroom smiling, excited, she could hard-ly contain herself because my CA125dropped almost 200 points. She be-lieved we finally hit the right combi-nation of drugs. Her enthusiasm is con-tagious, and once again I am at peace.

I remember asking Dr. Wilson-Smithif I could have a cocktail when I go outto eat, her answer was simple: “Enjoyyour life and live it to the fullest.”Thosewords have become my life motto.

My Angel(continued from page 9)

Cancer Saved My Life by Dorothy Bloodworth

My name is Dorothy Bloodworth and I ama 61 year old woman who can unwa-

veringly say that cancer saved my life.I’m a strong Christian woman. My faith

in God has been the primary thing that hassustained me to survive this journey. Thatbeing said, I don’t think anything preparesto hear the words “You have cancer” butfaith in God allows you to have hope and beencouraged that God will be with you everystep of the way.

To my knowledge I am the first femalein my biological family to have breast can-cer and my first thoughts were thank Godit was me and not my daughter and that myhusband had already passed.

I had been a widow for 11 months whenI got my diagnosis. My husband had becomecritically ill and this culminated in him be-coming bedridden in January 2011. My jobhad closed and I was his primary caregiver.There were times I felt overwhelmed, butthrough all of this my faith remained strong.

The cardinal sin I committed was ne-glecting myself. I was not taking care of myhealth needs and so many caregivers fall intothis rut! Please, take heed and do not sac-rifice your health for anyone. Due to com-plications my husband was having I cancelledmy mammogram in 2011 and I never resched-uled it.

If my husband would have known he wouldhave been very upset with me. My husbandpassed away June 9, 2011 and I was in suchgrief that I continued to neglect myself.

Fast forward to early April 2012… Ithought I was feeling something in mybreast. In the past I had participated in the“CEED Program” at Cooper Hospital. Thisprogram provided free mammography andPap smear exams to those who qualify. SoI think God decided to give me a “nudge” be-cause I actually fell on my right breast, andthen I really had to make an appointmentat the CEED program. After several tests itwas confirmed that I had breast cancer.

This was my wakeup call! I knew therewere some things I had to do for myself.When I was diagnosed I weighed 331 lbs anddidn’t even realize it. I decided immediate-ly that I WAS GOING TO TURN THISAROUND. My daughter and her family havehelped me to change my eating habitsand to stay dedicated to walking and exer-cising. My son lovingly holds me accountableto take care of myself. As of today I am proudto say I weigh 254 lbs.

My support base has been awesome. Ican’t name everyone but at this time I wantto thank Dr. Somer, Dr. Hendershott; Dr.Youssef; Dr. Schweiker and the CooperCancer Institute. Thank you for your pro-fessionalism and the compassion that hasbeen shown to me. I never felt left out of anydecisions that were made.

Please, remember to take care of yourself.I hope my testimony will encourage and en-lighten others while they are on their journey.

Dorothy with Tom Adams getting her massage at Therapeutic Massage Day through the Dr. Diane Barton Complementary Medicine Program


A Hollywood Cancer Story by Theodore Balabuch

On January 12, 2012 I had the great mis-fortune or so I thought of falling down

a flight of concrete steps. While performinga fire inspection in a high rise in the city ofCamden, I sustained blunt force trauma tomy chest, injured my lower back, and head.I tore my labrum in my right shoulder andsuffered a concussion.

Let me explain… My cancer story soundslike an academy award winning movie filledwith stars and costars along with the bestvery best supporting cast members ever as-sembled; also known as my entourage of pro-fessionals whom are second to none.

After I fell down I had to be transferredto Cooper Hospital. I remember beingsomewhat confused about what had justhappened in reference to my fall. I was in alot of pain and I kept on complaining aboutmy head and chest. It seemed like I was inthe emergency room forever before some-one took my blood for testing, a chest x-ray,and an MRI scan of my chest and head.Shortly after these tests were performed adoctor from the ER and a pulmonologistcame to my side, they appeared to bedeeply concerned. The ER doctor informedme that there was a lot of fluid accumulat-ing around my heart (in an area called thepericardial sac). He said that if it continuesI would have to go into emergency surgeryto have the fluid removed. An overnight ob-servation was necessary to ensure my sta-bility in the cardiaccare unit. The MRIscan of my chest in-dicated that I had amass on my rightlung. At first he did-n’t think it was tooconcerning but hewanted to biopsy it incase it was cancer-ous.

This is when myunfortunate fall be-comes a fortunatefall. After a short stay in the cardiac care unit,I had a follow up echocardiogram in Janu-ary 2012. It revealed that the fluid was stillthere but stable. Then on February 9, 2012,I had a PET scan. I met with a pulmonolo-gist the next day, without any family mem-bers or friends with me. At first I wasn’t re-ally concerned but my pulmonologist ap-peared really concerned and said that the

PET scan revealed that Ihave cancer and it metas-tasized.

On February 21, 2012, Ihad a biopsy on my lung. Afew days later I met withmy oncologist for the firsttime. As we waited in thepatient room, it felt likehours went by before myfamily and I met with myoncologist; Dr. Priya Singh.Dr. Singh introduced herselfto my family and kindlyasked how everyone wasdoing. Dr. Singh appeareddeeply concerned, andsympathetic about my re-sults. Dr. Singh explainedthat the biopsy and PETscan revealed my cancer tobe Stage 4 — Non small celllung cancer (adenocarci-noma). She made me feellike I was her own brotherwithin just minutes of meet-ing her. She made me feel like I wasn’t alonefighting this battle. My sons Ted andMatthew, along with my sister Donna and sis-ter-in-law Denise as well as my wife, Lindagave kudos to Dr. Singh’s compassionatecharacter and professional demeanor; Icouldn’t agree more.

Dr. Singh satdown with me andlaid out two cancertreatment plans. Onewas more aggres-sive than the other. Iopted to take themost aggressivechemotherapy op-tion that was pre-sented to me. I ex-plained to my doctor,as a former fire fight-er I was willing to

run into burning buildings to save others with-out regard for my own life. We as firefight-ers always took the most aggressive actionin order to save lives, therefore I adapted tothis aggressive trait and I wanted to take onthe most aggressive treatment plan available.After stating this, Dr. Singh mentioned Imight be a candidate for an experimentaltreatment program that was more aggressive

than the two prior chemo plans. However, shedidn’t know if there were any openings lefton the trial that Cooper was participating in.She left the room and consulted with the re-search team and soon after she informed methat one slot was left; I was fortunate enoughto get this opportunity.

In order to get on this experimental tri-al I had to meet a certain criteria. I had to gothrough a battery of tests within a weeks’ no-tice. To make a very long and miraculous sto-ry short, I succeeded in meeting the criteria.Since March 7, 2012 my cancer is stable.

At the present time I feel really blessedand appreciative of all the hard work thatthe stars, costars and supporting castmembers including those from the behav-ioral health team have done to help me getto this point in my life. A special thanks goesout to my behavioral medicine counselor forhelping me cope with all my mental anguishand depression. One of my counselor’stherapeutic techniques was to engage insome form of art. And so, I decided to painta picture for the Cooper Cancer Institute at900 Centennial Voorhees, New Jersey.The picture was completed and donated inJune 2013. I plan to paint a picture and do-nate it to the Cancer Institute for every yearthat I battle and survive this cancer.

At the present time I feelreally blessed and

appreciative of all the hardwork that the stars, costars

and supporting cast members including those

from the behavioral healthteam have done to help meget to this point in my life.

Theodore Balabuch and the painting that he created and donated to Voorhees infusion site.

Nutritional InformationAmount per serving: Calories: 191; Calories fromfat: 28%; Fat: 5.9g; Saturated fat: 2.8g; Monoun-saturated fat: 2.2g; Polyunsaturated fat: 0.5g; Pro-tein: 27.4g; Carbohydrate: 3.6g; Fiber: 0.7g; Choles-terol: 74mg; Iron: 2.1mg; Sodium: 449mg; Calcium:86mg

Yield: 8 servings (serving size: 1 turkey slice and 11/2 tablespoons sauce)

Ingredients:• 4 tablespoons water, divided • 1 (6-ounce) package prewashed baby spinach • 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided • 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots, divided • 1 garlic clove, minced • 1/2 cup (2 ounces) crumbled feta cheese • 1 tablespoon dry breadcrumbs • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano • 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 1 large egg white, lightly beaten • 1 (1 3/4-pound) boneless turkey breast half • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 1/2 cup dry white wine • 3/4 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth• 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch • 1 tablespoon butter • Oregano sprigs (optional)

Directions:1. Heat a large saucepan over medium-highheat. Add 1 tablespoon water and spinach;cover and cook 5 minutes or until spinachwilts, stirring occasionally. Place spinach mix-ture in a colander, pressing until barely moist.

2. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a small saucepanover medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoonschopped shallots, 2 tablespoons water,and garlic; cover and cook 3 minutes or un-til moisture evaporates. Spoon shallot mix-ture into a medium bowl. Add the spinach,

feta, breadcrumbs, oregano, 1/4 teaspoon salt,1/8 teaspoon pepper, and egg white.

3.Cut horizontally through center of breast, cut-ting to, but not through, other side using a sharpknife; open flat as you would a book. Place breastbetween 2 sheets of plastic wrap; pound to aneven 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet orrolling pin. Discard plastic wrap. Spread spinachmixture over turkey, leaving a 1-inch border. Rollup breast, jelly-roll fashion, starting with one shortside. Secure at 2-inch intervals with twine. Rub1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper even-ly over turkey.

4.Preheat oven to 325°.5.Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large Dutch oven overmedium-high heat. Add the turkey; cook 5 min-utes, browning on all sides. Remove turkey frompan. Add 2 tablespoons shallots to pan; sauté30 seconds. Stir in wine, scraping pan to loosenbrowned bits. Add turkey and broth to pan; bringto a boil. Cover and bake at 325° for 40 minutesor until a thermometer inserted in thickest por-tion of turkey registers 170°. Remove turkey frompan; keep warm.

6. Place pan on stovetop over high heat. Combinecornstarch and 1 tablespoon water, stirringwith a whisk. Add cornstarch mixture to pan;bring to a boil. Cook 1 minute or until slightly thick,stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Add but-ter, stirring with a whisk. Remove and discardtwine from turkey. Cut turkey into 8 slices. Servesauce with the turkey. Garnish with oreganosprigs, if desired.

Adapted from: Rick Rodgers, Cooking Light

Preparation:1. Preheat oven to 350°.2. Bring broth to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in rice.Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 50 minutes. Re-move from heat. Let stand 10 minutes.

3. Combine cranberries and cider in a microwave-safe bowl; microwave at HIGH 1 minute. Let standfor 10 minutes. Add mixture to rice.

Ingredients:• 2/3 cup fat-free, lower-sodium chickenbroth • 1/3 cup uncooked brown rice • 1/3 cup dried cranberries • 1/3 cup apple cider • 4 large Rome apples, cored • 1 1/2 tablespoons butter, melted and divided • 1 (4-ounce) link sweet Italian sausage, casings removed • 3/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion • 1/3 cup finely chopped carrot • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Nutritional InformationAmount per serving: Calories: 363; Fat: 16.1g; Satu-rated fat: 6.7g; Monounsaturated fat: 4g; Polyun-saturated fat: 4.2g; Protein: 12g; Carbohydrate:46.3g; Fiber: 4.6g; Cholesterol: 32mg; Iron: 1.3mg;Sodium: 656mg; Calcium: 159mg

Savory Baked Apples

4. Using a small spoon, carefully scoop outcenters of apples, leaving a 1/2-inch-thickshell, and chop apple flesh. Brush the in-side of apples with 1 tablespoon butter. Placeapples on a baking sheet, and bake at 350°for 25 minutes or until just tender.

5. Preheat broiler to high.6. Heat a large skillet over medium-highheat. Add sausage, and sauté 5 minutes, stir-ring to crumble. Remove from pan; drain.Wipe skillet, and melt remaining butter inpan. Add chopped apple, yellow onion, andnext 3 ingredients (through pepper); sauté4 minutes. Add garlic; sauté for 1 minute,stirring constantly. Add sausage, onion mix-ture, walnuts, and next 3 ingredients(through sage) to rice; toss. Divide rice mix-ture evenly among apples; top with cheese.Broil for 5 minutes or until golden.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 1 stuffed apple)

Total: 1 Hour, 18 Minutes

Recipe Page

Turkey Breast with Spinach-Feta Stuffing

FROM THE DESK OF: Alicia Michaux MS, RD, CSO

Expert Oncology Nutritionist, Cooper Cancer Institute


Documents

A Steadfast Commitment by Dr. Generosa Grana, MD · 2 SURVIVOR TIMES • Volume 5, Issue 12 Welcome to Volume 5, issue 12 of the Survivor Times — a newsletter for cancer survivors,