Inside RCC Spring 2013

Inside RCCSpring 2013

Cancer Prevention MythsWeighing the Evidence Genetic TestingGuides Cancer Treatment Behind the ScenesOf Comprehensive Care Great GrainsRecipe: Quinoa with Roasted Garlic

Are you looking fora dynamic andinteresting speaker

for a support group?for a community or civic meeting?for an employee lunch and learn?

Schedule a free speaker on cancer related topics.

Contact:Sarah Humphrey, RN, BSN

(814) 836-2643 • [email protected]

About the Cover“In Your Hands”Acrylic by a Person Diagnosed with CancerPuerto RicoNot alone. God and nature are my company. Sun water and earth are basic elements of life. I take them in my hands. We go through life not knowing when we will take the no return trip. We were born to make history and only the brave one can hold it. The feeling of love, hope and faith take us to the Creator where His faithful and true promise will lead us to eternal life.

Courtesy, Lilly Oncology On Canvas collection

Board of Directors

Debbie BurbulesChairman

Richard Cogley, MD

Chuck Bogosta

Steve Danch Rick Griffith

Henry Ward Mary Ann Yochim

ContentsBehind the Scenes .................................................................. 2Faces of RCC ................................................................................ 4Genetic Testing Guides Lung Cancer Treatment ...... 6Who is a Cancer Survivor? .................................................... 8Patient Notes .............................................................................. 9Cancer Prevention Myths ..................................................... 10Great Grains ................................................................................ 12Donors Making a Difference ............................................... 13

Our Mission Governed by partnering hospitals, Saint Vincent Health System and UPMC Hamot, the mission of The Regional Cancer Center is to provide comprehensive care for patients with cancer and blood disorders with a commitment to advanced care, research and optimal quality of life for patients and families.

Inside RCC EditorLisa LouisDirector of Professional and Community Relations

We’re SocialFollow us for healthy living tips,recipes, events and more.

Patient Advisory Group

Treva Anderson(in memoriam)

Mary Bollheimer Harry BowserJoanne Church(in memoriam)

Mark KarubaNikki Kowalczyk(in memoriam)

Cathy FreschPeter LyonsAmy Lund

Center Leadership

Sarah C. Kaveney, MSN, RN, OCNInterim Executive Director

Philip H. Symes, MDClinical DirectorMedical Oncology/Hematology

Conrad J. Stachelek, MD, PhDClinical DirectorRadiation Oncology

Inside RCC | 1

From the Chairman of the Board

Change is constant. Clinical advances that bring so much positive change in healthcare keep us looking for what’s next.

As Chairman of the Board of The Regional Cancer Center I have the privilege of updating you about changes and transitions at our community cancer center -- appreciating our progress and anticipating next steps.

RCC’s Executive Director, John Girard, has announced his resignation to take on his next professional challenge. John is moving to Indianapolis and will be the Executive Director of Operations for IU Health (Indiana University) Cancer Services.

John was hired in November, 2008 and charged with integrating The RCC with UPMC Cancer Centers to facilitate an exchange of information between our community cancer center and the resources of one of the top academic cancer programs in the country. John has done what he was hired to do in many ways.

Significant growth in the clinical research program at RCC has occurred under John’s leadership. The center’s multidisciplinary clinics and ancillary support services are more robust. Three new doctors joined RCC during John’s tenure and therapeutic stereotactic radiosurgery programs have notably expanded. John established advisory groups of patients and of family caregivers that regularly meet with center management. Facility renovations have updated RCC’s 25 year old building. Awareness of RCC as a community asset has been raised and a much-needed fundraising program for the future of the center has been initiated.

John has led The RCC with great energy and management expertise. It is bittersweet to see him move up and on from Erie.

As we wish John well Sarah Kaveney, MSN, RN, OCN assumes the position of Interim Executive Director upon John’s departure. Sarah has been integral in program developments at RCC as

Director of Clinical Operations since 2008. Together John and Sarah have created a progressive vision for RCC that is supported by its Board of Directors. Sarah’s leadership will bring continuity of purpose and continued momentum for a variety of initiatives now underway at the center.

The ability of an organization to adapt to change is an important indicator of its success. What you will read on the pages that follow demonstrates RCC’s drive toward the future to embrace the opportunities of change. Genetic profiling to determine the most promising cancer treatment regimens, programs to meet the needs of the new and growing population of cancer survivors and strategies for healthy eating and living to prevent cancer are all part of the developing fabric of your community cancer center.

And don’t miss the opportunity on the back page of this magazine to salute our fine physicians, critical partners in everything that is The Regional Cancer Center.

Sincerely,

Debbie BurbulesChairman

It is after great personal deliberation that I have resigned my position with UPMC CancerCenter as Executive Director of The Regional Cancer Center.

I am truly grateful for the time that I have spent here over the past 4+ years. I have enjoyed working with

such a strong team of professionals and for an organization that cares deeply about its patients.

My time here with you has been extraordinary. The support of my colleagues has made my work here a joy and something of which I am very proud. Best regards,John

Behind the Scenes ofChances are you haven’t given much thought to what goes on at The Regional Cancer Center, unless you’ve needed cancer care. And when you or someone you love does, what goes on here may be all you think about.

Comprehensive Cancer Care

Clinical ResearchThe medical record of every new patient at RCC is reviewed for a possible match with a clinical trial to bring as many treatment options as possible to patients. Beyond opening trials at RCC, this approach matches patients to trials nationwide -- identifying trials and facilitating patients’ participation in them, at RCC or elsewhere, as needed and desired by each patient. Identifying trials for patients and enrolling them, just begins the process. Research nurses follow trial patients closely, for life, documenting their progress carefully according to trial specifications.

Data from RCC’s Cancer Registry is used for analysis and planning, both scientifically and administratively. For example, data from 2010 show that the number of new patients to RCC with leukemia surpassed those with colon cancer, making leukemia the fifth most common cancer in patients seen at RCC. This analysis identified a new area of interest for clinical research at RCC.

Cancer Registry

Mary Lynn Haynes, RN, OCNResearch Coordinator

Kim Brereton, CTRCancer Registry Manager

Comprehensive Cancer Care

Inside RCC | 3

Pharmacy ServicesRCC’s pharmacy is the connection between science and safe delivery of treatment. One-third of new drugs approved by the FDA in 2012 are for cancer*, an indication of the rapid pace of opportunity and change in a climate requiring attention to every detail. Dispensing, mixing, dilution and administration of drugs involve significant coordination and continuing education. Drug expense and waste management are additional and important issues of pharmacy management that require ongoing vigilance.

Information TechnologyReliable and consistent Information Technology services are critical to patient services. At RCC the IT team is ultimately responsible for protecting patient health information, for the software that powers radiation treatment planning, the accuracy of radiation therapy delivery, chemotherapy dose calculations and drug interaction models. The Electronic Medical Record system for patients at RCC is one of the most advanced in the area. Cancer programs from other parts of the country have visited RCC to gain insight into its success embracing EMR.

Individualized Treatment Plans

Clinical Trials

Palliative andSupportive Care

Nutritional Guidance

Social Services

Nurses Certified in Oncology

On Site Pharmacy

Diagnostic Imaging

Genetic Testing

Cutting Edge Delivery of Radiation Therapy

Financial Counseling

Support Groups for Patients and Families

Comprehensive carefor cancer andblood disordersEither way, you should know that it is extraordinary for a

community our size to have the comprehensive and sophisticated services that are available at RCC. Fueling that engine, the depth and breadth of our program behind the scenes may surprise you.

Julie CardmanDirector of IT

LaboratoryAs doctors learn about the latest tests for identifying cancer types, the RCC lab keeps pace with related trends, logistics and outside lab partners to facilitate quality testing. Provision of advanced cancer testing and treatment requires reliable and sophisticated laboratory services. According to the Personalized Medicine Coalition a 34% reduction in chemotherapy use would occur if women with breast cancer receive a genetic test prior to treatment.* RCC is actively participating in this movement.

*http://bit.ly/XgFqKXKaren Osborn, MT (ASCP)

Laboratory Supervisor

*A run-up of new drug approvals in the last two weeks of the year pushed the FDA’s record to 39 new drug sanctions in 2012, almost twice the number approved just two years ago and the highest figure the agency has seen since 1996, when 53 new molecular entities crossed the finish line. One-third of these new drugs approved in the last 12 months are for cancer, underscoring the big investment being made in oncology as an improved understanding of the genetics involved in the disease is opening the door to new treatments--some of which are coming down the pipeline at a relatively rapid pace. http://bit.ly/XeoJip

Linda Paterniti, RPhPharmacy Director

Read these stories and others at www.trcc.org/a-face-of-rcc

Doug Dunbar is a mechanical engineer.

“By nature I go about looking for the best way to solve problems,” he says. “That’s why I sought out a second opinion.” Doug’s second opinion confirmed his choice of RCC for his cancer care. “This place is a well-oiled machine,” he explains, and since he accessed a variety of RCC’s services, the coordination was important to him. In particular, “Karen, the dietician, helped me out a lot because I had a digestive type cancer, and many foods weren’t sitting well. So we worked with Karen, and she helped me out – she gave me a lot of good tips.”

Married 31 years, Rich and Jean Weiss have each had the experience of being both cancer patient and caregiver at home. “Our marriage vows are, in sickness and in health, so we were there for each other, through it all,” says Jean. Reflecting on a marriage made stronger through experience with cancer they agree, “We just appreciate the little things we do for each other.” The positive outcome Rich had from his prostate cancer treatment gave Jean optimism when she was first diagnosed with anal cancer and facing treatment. “I was confident about the treatment and the staff,” she says. “We were very fortunate to be able to have our treatment here, close to home.”

FACES of RCC

“We’re both cancer survivors!”

4 | Inside RCC

More of Doug’s story is shared on video at www.trcc.org.

More of the Weiss’ story of triumph over two cancers is shared on video at www.trcc.org.

Have you been treated for cancer or a blood disorder at The Regional Cancer Center? Tell us your story in 200 words or less.

Send it with your photo to: Patient Stories2500 West 12th StreetErie, PA 16505

-or-Submit your story online atwww.trcc.org/survivor-stories

CALL for SURVIVOR STORIES

Even though Darya Moore didn’t have health insurance she knew how important it was to get her annual mammogram. Her doctor at Community Health Net helped her get the breast cancer screening on The RCC’s mobile mammography vehicle at no cost to her. News that the mammogram showed a suspicion of cancer put Darya “in a tailspin.” Follow up testing proved cancer was not present but the experience had a lasting impression. “I always do my monthly self exams but did not feel what the test showed,” Darya explains. “I want other people to know that you can get a mammogram even if you don’t have insurance. It’s so important.”

“ I`m a year survivor of skin cancer (melanoma),” Andrew Malinowski proudly shares. His treatment began with surgery at Saint Vincent in 1980. Following additional surgeries and a 30 day course of radiation therapy years later he was one of the first patients seen at The Regional Cancer Center when it opened in 1987, receiving follow up treatment from Dr. Scibetta. Andrew recalls attending the first Celebration of Life Survivors Day event hosted by the cancer center. “I was blessed by God for having such wonderful people take care of me and the support of all my family and friends which helped me through my illness. Remember, take one day at a time and God will see you through. Take care and God bless,” he encourages.

“I was 35 years old when I was diagnosed with stage III colorectal cancer,” says Angela Janosky. Now 38, in three short years Angela has also come to battle breast and cervical cancers and a second round, this time stage IV, of colorectal cancer. “I know I’m not the norm but cancer doesn’t know any gender, any age, any race…it just happens,”

she says. Her relationship with her clinical team at RCC quickly became very important to her. “I’m kind of an information monger so the more information I can gather, the better,” Angela explains. “Dr. Marsh and Dr. Kovacs, even Chelle, my nurse, respected that. They were more than willing to share information and very willing to accept that communication back from me so it was definitely a give and take relationship.” After finishing her final chemotherapy in November she finally got the news she’s been waiting for: She’s cancer-free.

Inside RCC | 5

More of Angela’s story is shared on video at www.trcc.org.

Genetic Testing Changing the Landscape of Lung Cancer TreatmentUsing the molecular profiles of lung cancer tissue samples physicians at The Regional Cancer Center are personalizing treatments for their patients like never before. Today results of molecular profiling can contraindicate chemotherapy all together in favor of kinase inhibitors, the most common of which is a targeted oral agent called Tarceva.

Every lung cancer has a specific molecular profile. When certain profiles are identified within patients they are the best predictor of the most effective treatment. For patients with advanced metastatic disease, i.e. 80 – 85% of diagnosed lung cancers, molecular profiling is of benefit. Approximately 20% of lung cancers screened present with a profile that is shown to benefit from treatment that is not chemotherapy.

Benefits of this alternative therapy include enhanced quality of life, fewer side effects and better outcomes. An added benefit is lower cost.

“Pending research is changing the landscape of lung cancer treatment,” says Jan Rothman, MD, Director of the Multidisciplinary Thoracic Cancer Clinic at The Regional Cancer Center. “Provocative molecular studies are rewriting the way we diagnose and treat these patients. New opportunities are just exploding in lung cancer.”

New opportunities are a welcome change with a patient population that is very challenging. With traditional chemotherapy for lung cancer these patients’ lifespan could be extended by months. By considering patients’ disease biology and using targeted therapies when indicated, outcomes are improving.

RCC’s affiliation with UPMC CancerCenter facilitates access to related research. UPMC’s active participation in the national Lung Cancer Mutation Consortium plays a fundamental role in bringing these leading edge treatment opportunities to patients.

Jan Rothman, MD has found that his work using the latest advances in genetic profiling and cancer therapy doesn’t end when he leaves the exam room.

Genetic Testing

Just this winter he has had three patients whose preliminary diagnosis made them ideal candidates for genetic profiling but their insurance companies denied the potentially lifesaving – and cost saving -- tests. Because just a handful of specialty laboratories across the U.S. process tissue samples for genetic profiling, insurance coverage for it is essential. Rothman was persistent contesting the denials, formally

and informally, working every angle he could think of to overturn them. In time he was successful on all three accounts and his patients received the testing they needed.

Recognized for his expertise and tenacity, Dr. Rothman was recently invited to serve on the Clinical Advisory Board of the insurance company he lobbied on behalf of his patients.

She found the treatment challenging but stuck with it. Rona was just 44 years old at the time and her husband and children, ages 9 and 13, at home were a big part of her motivation. “I knew Stage III B lung cancer was not good,” she said.

Two years later her disease recurred at Stage IV, and it was “devastating” for Rona. Medical Oncologist, Jan Rothman, MD proposed a new approach to treating her recurrence, beginning with genetic testing. Dr. Rothman secured a tissue sample from Rona’s original biopsy and submitted it for molecular profiling. The results indicated Rona was one of the 20% of lung cancer patients to carry the mutation indicating that she would benefit from the alternative therapy, a kinase inhibitor. She began the oral drug therapy shortly thereafter -- quite a different quality of life experience for Rona compared to the traditional chemotherapy that was tough for her to tolerate in 2008. Five years have passed since Rona was first diagnosed and today she has no evidence of disease. Although Dr. Rothman follows her closely at RCC, she is living a full life.

Inside RCC | 7

Closer to home Rothman sites RCC’s thoracic clinic team as fundamental to the current process and plans to further expand use of these screenings and treatments. “The tissue sampling is a critical component at diagnosis and the pathologists’ analysis of the molecular signature is pivotal. As oncologists the expertise of our colleagues and our ability to collaborate with them is essential to bringing the best treatment opportunities for our patients,” he says.

Many other drugs in clinical trials now are using this approach.

“With our multidisciplinary team in place and UPMC CancerCenter collaboration,” says Rothman, “we aren’t waiting until research is complete and accepted by

insurance providers -- we are participating in the ongoing research bringing these new strategies here to RCC now so our patients don’t have to travel to receive them.”

Rona Strubel underwent chemo and radiation therapy at RCC for Stage III B non-small cell lung cancer in 2008.

Rona with her husband Mike and their children;

Justin and Kaitlyn

“With lung cancer you think you don’t have a chance,” Rona reflects, “but that’s not true anymore.”

Jan Rothman, MD

“New opportunities are just exploding in lung cancer.”

I would suspect if you asked five cancer patients and five oncology clinicians the definition of “cancer survivor” you would get ten different answers. The intent of the phrase at its inception in the late 1980’s was to bring thoughts of triumph and victory, to bring a psychologically motivating element to this devastating diagnosis.

As one of the many events offered to honor the patients and the 25th anniversary of the cancer center, a Survivor Symposium

was hosted last fall. The seminar was well attended and included an amazing line up of speakers and a variety of topics relevant to people with cancer. But as each lecture began, I quickly came to the realization that the presenters too were not working off the same definition of “cancer survivor.” The first speaker referred to a survivor as someone who “beat their cancer.” In the next presentation, the physician asked all survivors, “those who were cancer free”, to clap loudly. The following cited “finishing treatment” as the milestone to describe a cancer survivor. Finally the last referred to a cancer survivor “as someone who has been actively living life with

cancer.” As one of the people who helped pull this event together, I got worried. What if after hearing all the conflicting definitions presented, the audience members who came there thinking they were a “survivor” now wondered whether they weren’t?

The definition I have always worked from, and how the National Cancer Institute defines “survivor,” is “an individual

is considered a cancer survivor from the time of diagnosis, through the balance of his or her life.” Fortunately, advancements in medicines, technology and treatments have added not only quality but months to years onto a diagnosed patient’s life. Since cancer affects the whole family unit, some formal definitions have recently come to include relatives, as well as caregivers and friends.

Clear as mud, right? No matter what your definition of cancer survivor is, broadly speaking, there are over 13 million living cancer survivors in the U.S. today and, as cited by the American Cancer Society, this number is expected to grow to 18 million by 2022. For the past 25 years The Regional Cancer Center has been and will continue to be the community partner in offering state of the art diagnosis and treatment, helping people get well and stay well. We will continue to provide as many resources, support groups, educational programs, advocacy events, and celebrations that are all focused on motivating cancer survivors and others to continue to have courage and hope in the face of this diagnosis. The impact cancer survivors have on each other and all of us who look on with awe and support is indefinable.

8 | Inside RCC

Who is aCancer Survivor?

BY SARAH KAVENEY, MSN, RN, OCN

“surviv or”an individual is considered a cancer survivor from the time of diagnosis, through the balance of his or her life

P A T I E N T N O T E S

Inside RCC | 9

SPA DAYMonday April 22Two Sessions: 9:00 AM – 12 Noon 1:30 PM – 4:30 PMClarion Bel-Aire Hotel, Erie This special event is designed to pamper patients and caregivers. The free activities throughout the day include facials, massage, make-up applications, manicures and cooking demonstrations. The program is free, but reservations are required. Contact: Kyle Noyer (814) 836-2678

CELEBRATION OF LIFEFriday May 31 Erie ZooAll patients of The Regional Cancer Center are invited to the annual Celebration of Life event to celebrate survivorship – life after cancer! Event details will follow in a mailed invitation.Contact: Sarah Humphrey (814) 836-2643

NEW PATIENT AND CAREGIVER CLASSThursday May 16 11:00 AM – 1:00 PMRCCThe Association of Oncology Social Work (AOSW), an international non-profit organization dedicated to the enhancement of psychosocial services to people with cancer and their families, is launching a new, nationwide caregiver educational program: Caring for the Caregiver -- It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint. RCC has been selected as one of the sites for the program designed to help both cancer patients and their family and friends to: • Thrive in the midst of the cancer diagnosis and treatment • Learn how cancer affects the whole family • Communicate during the cancer journey • Resume family life after cancerThe program is free and lunch will be provided. Reservations by May 14 are a must. Contact: Ann Marie Cronk (814) 836-2618

RE-ENERGIZE YOURSELFA new support program was recently offered to patients: “Re-energize Yourself: a free class to learn simple tools to balance mind, body and soul.” Anxiety Specialist, Kimberly Morrow, and Spiritual Healer, Kelley Glass presented the program at no cost to participants. The session was open to cancer patients only and program evaluations were excellent. One patient commented, “I felt positive and at peace when this was over, thank you.” Patients who are interested in a class like this are asked to call Ann Marie Cronk at (814) 836-2618.

LIFE LEGACY CLASSTuesday May 7 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMRCCA legacy is something that we leave or give to others. This class will help you create a photo journal, your life legacy, for your family and friends. We willprovide the kit and the instruction. Participants bring your photos that you would like to add to the journal. At the end of the class you will have a beautiful gift for your family and loved ones.

Presented by Lynn Douds, Creative Memories Consultant, and open to RCC patients only.

Reservations by April 30 are required. Class limited to 20 participants. Cost is $10.

Contact: Ann Marie Cronk (814) 836-2618

10 | Inside RCC

Weighing the Evidence on

MYTH 1: Breast cancer survivors should avoid soy.Because soy foods like tofu and edamame contain phytoestrogens, which mimic the effects of estrogen, there was fear these foods could fuel estrogen-related cancers. Now, major population studies show that eating soy in moderate amounts - 1 to 2 standard servings a day - does not increase a woman’s risk for recurrence or death, and does not show harmful interaction with anti-estrogen medications.

MYTH 2: Whether or not I get cancer is genetic, so I can’t do anything about it.Not true. We know that not smoking, staying a healthy weight and other lifestyle factors can prevent an estimated one-half of cancer cases. Even if you have a gene(s) known to significantly increase cancer risk -- such as the BRCA1 gene and breast cancer, it is not a guarantee you will get cancer and it’s more important than ever to take preventive measures.

MYTH 3: Drinking red wine is good for my health.It’s tempting to believe, but for cancer - the answer is no. Alcohol, regardless of the source, is a carcinogen. Drinking alcohol regularly increases risk of seven cancers, including breast, mouth, and esophageal.

Although resveratrol, a compound in red wine, does reduce risk of cancers in lab studies, you can get it from other sources including grapes, blueberries, and even cocoa. Red wine may play a role in heart health, but the American Heart Association does not recommend anyone start drinking wine.

MYTH 4: During treatment, cancer patients should rest as much as possible.Nope. Guidelines published in 2010 urge patients and survivors to avoid inactivity, with the goal to eventually meet the physical activity recommendations for all Americans. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobics and two days of muscle strengthening activities per week as appropriate based on advice from each individual’s physician. Research suggests exercise can help survivors avoid fatigue, have improved quality of life, and possibly reduce risk of recurrence.

MYTH 5: Processed food is bad for me.Not necessarily. “Processed” has a negative connotation but there are plenty of processed foods that make healthy meals easier. Frozen veggies, canned fruit, or healthy soups are what we call minimally processed. When choosing these less processed foods, look for ones that are low in added salt, sugar and fat.

Aim for the minimally processed foods.

But a lot of processed foods are heavy in sugar, fat, and/or sodium and often loaded with calories. Eating too many of those foods can lead to weight gain which increases cancer risk and can cause a host of other health problems.

Common CancerThere’s a lot of information out there about what causes cancer and what you can do to prevent it. It’s easy to pick up the headlines from a single study or

story and tell two friends who tell two more. To help make sense of it all The American Institute for Cancer Research has put together seven myths about cancer.

MYTH 6: Being a little overweight has no effect on my cancer risk.Sadly, it does. AICR’s expert report and its updates have found that any amount of excess body fat raises risk to some degree. Population studies show that, overall, being overweight and obese is linked to higher risk of seven cancers. Updated estimates show that approximately 320 cases of U.S. cancers could be prevented every day if everyone was lean.

MYTH 7: Taking a vitamin/mineral supplement lowers my cancer risk.Not that we know. When looking at all the evidence together, research suggests that taking a multivitamin or other supplement does not lower our cancer risk. In some cases, high doses of supplements have even been shown to increase risk. There is a lot of ongoing cancer prevention research with vitamin D and other supplements and some studies suggest certain populations may benefit. But for now, the research is clear: go for the whole foods.

Here’s a QuizWhen is the right time to name someone to speak for you in case of serious illness? A. When you’re in good health B. When you’re in a coma

The answer, of course, is “A”

The problem? We are reluctant to talk about our medical wishes in case of serious illness or end of life. Too often the result is family conflict and confusion at a time when you are most vulnerable and cannot speak for yourself.

April 16th is National Healthcare Decisions Day, the day to name someone to speak for you when you can no longer speak for yourself.

Go to www.trcc.org/5wishesfor more information on advance care planning and for documents you need to name a durable power of attorney for healthcare decisions. For your peace of mind and your family’s think about what is important to you. Share that with your family and physician and name the person you trust to be your durable power of attorney.

Did you know?90% of Americans have

heard of a living will

71% of Americans have thoughtabout their end-of-life preferences

But only 29% have a living willsource: nhdd.org

We’ve got good news to share.Be the first to hear it!

At The RCC there are always new services and programs being developed, new clinical research studies, patient

events and fundraising activities. We’ll offer news on awareness initiatives, nutritional tips, and inspirational

patient stories – there is good news to share. Stay in touch!

Sign up for e-mail newsletters atwww.trcc.org/communication

GREAT GRAINS!

Karen Schnaekel, RDDietician,

The Regional Cancer Center

Are you interested in improving your diet? Start by adding more whole grains. In addition to being rich in vitamins and minerals, whole grains contain fiber which may help reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer. All grains start out whole, with all three layers – the bran, germ and endosperm. Processing removes the outer layer, which contains most of the fiber, minerals and vitamins, and health benefits. Try to choose whole grains instead of processed or refined products.

Carefully read nutrition labels to find whole grains. Check the ingredient list for 100%

whole grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice, and pasta. Even breads labeled as “multigrain” or “seven grain” may not necessarily contain whole grains. Carefully check the nutrition label to find whole grains.

Examples of whole grains include: whole wheat, whole grains, whole grain corn or cornmeal, oatmeal (whole or rolled oats), buckwheat, quinoa, pearl barley, brown rice and popcorn. Choose whole grains over refined grains, with a goal of three servings of whole grain every day. Try cooking with different grains, and add some variety to your diet!

Quinoawith Roasted Garlic,Tomatoes, and Spinach

Makes 4 servings (serving size: 1/2 cup)

Ingredients- 1 whole garlic head - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallots - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper - 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed and drained - 1 tablespoon dry white wine

- 1 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth - 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves - 1/3 cup chopped seeded tomato (1 small) - 1 tablespoon shaved fresh Parmesan cheese - 1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation1. Preheat oven to 350°.2. Remove papery skin from garlic head. Cut garlic head in half crosswise, breaking apart to separate whole cloves. Wrap half of head in foil; reserve remaining garlic for another use. Bake at 350° for 1 hour; cool 10 minutes. Separate cloves; squeeze to extract garlic pulp. Discard skins.3. Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add shallots and red pepper to pan; cook 1 minute. Add quinoa to pan; cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add wine; cook until liquid is absorbed, stirring constantly. Add broth; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat; stir in garlic pulp, spinach, tomato, cheese, and salt. Serve immediately.

www.trcc.org/communityfind this recipe and more at

this recipe,Try

made with quinoa,a whole grain that is rich in

protein, fiber, and iron12 | Inside RCC

Inside RCC | 13Inside RCC | 13

Northwestern Basketball TeamThe Northwestern High School girls’ basketball team held a “Pink Out” game on January 17th against the Fairview Tigers. All funds raised were donated to The Regional Cancer Center in memory of Daniel Bowden whose daughter, Rachel, plays on the Northwestern team. The money raised came from t-shirt sales, a Chinese auction, a 50/50 raffle, 3 point shot, and donations made at the game. Additionally, the Northwestern boys’ basketball team donated proceeds of one of their 50/50s to the cause. The total raised was $1,267.

Donna Netkowicz, from RCC, accepted the donation from Brent Crane, Judy Alward, Roberta and Rachel Bowden.

Marshalls Co-WorkersHonor a ColleagueJim and Jennie Turner are pictured with framed angel prints that were donated to RCC in memory of their daughter Melissa Lynn Turner Clayson who passed away in December at the age of 46. Melissa was a sales associate at Marshalls in Erie prior to her sudden illness. Judy Dinges, store manager, remarked that her colleagues wanted to donate something in her memory. In addition to the two framed pictures, Marshalls donated $1,000 in Melissa’s memory. Jim Turner, Melissa’s father, is a patient at The Regional Cancer Center.

Peter Filocamo, RCC’s Development Director is shown accepting the donation.

Molly Brannigan’sFundraiser ProceedsMichael O’Connor, General Manager for Molly Brannigans Restaurant presented a check for $645 to John Girard, RCC Executive Director and Peter Filocamo, Development Director. During October “Breast Cancer awareness month” Molly Brannigans sold pink t-shirts with the theme of “Raise a Pint to Raise Awareness.” Mike O’Connor stated how important it was for his restaurant to give something back to community, especially to RCC where the money stays local and helps those patients who may not be able to afford their cancer treatments.

I RAISED A pint

TO RAISEAWARENESS

Proceeds Bene�t

Experts.Compassion.Hope Close to Home.www.trcc.org

Your donation helps patients get the carethey need but many cannot a�ord.

JFK Center Children Raise FundsChildren of the John F. Kennedy Center raised $100 for RCC. They went door to door asking for donations as a memorial of Carlos J. Velez Delgado. Carlos was the brother of Blanca I. Velez, a staff member at JFK. Sabrina Tolbert, JFK Prevention Based Programming Specialist, set up an information table about cancer awareness and prevention for the community. The group made a check presentation to Peter Filocamo, RCC’s Director of Development, who applauded the JFK kids for an outstanding job.

Pictured here from the presentation are (left to right) first row: Blanca Velez with a picture of her brother Carlos J. Velez Delgardo, Tehya Worthy, Jamaya Wayne, Imariana Lyons and Jadaliss Tate. Second row (left to right) is Sonya Adams, Sabrina Tolbert and Peter Filocamo.

a differenceDonors MakingDonors MakingDonors MakingDonors MakingDonors MakingDonors MakingDonors Making

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Experts.Compassion.Hope Close to Home.

If you wish to be removed from this mailing list or would prefer receiving an electronic version, please contact Donna Netkowicz at (814) 836-2679.

Express your gratitude to a caring physician and honor the impact they make on their patients and in their communities.

National Doctors’ DayMarch 30, 2013

Send a short note and honor a RCC physician with a donation in his/her name at: www.trcc.org/doctors-dayIn acknowledgment of your gift, a Doctors’ Day card will be sent to the physician(s) you have designated, along with a special note from you. The amount of your gift will not be mentioned.

Notes and donations can also be mailed to The Regional Cancer Center Or call (814) 836-2679 Development Department 2500 W. 12 St. Erie, PA 16505

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Visit www.trcc.org/communicationsto give us your email address.

You can also receive healthy living tips,recipes and ongoing news and event information from YOURcommunity cancer center.