Robert Burger, MD, Director, Women’s Cancer Center at Fox Chase Cancer Center

TRUE or FALSE: “You can only come to Fox Chase if you have cancer.” ANSWER: FALSE.

Did you know that thousands of patients come to Fox Chase each year for their annual screening tests including mammography, colonoscopy, PSA and DEXA screening to rule out cancer? Mammography is the most widely used screening tool for breast cancer. So why do so many women choose Fox Chase for their mammograms? There are several factors, including convenience and sophisticated technology, but most importantly Fox Chase is home to world-class radiologists with unmatched expertise because they read more mammograms for women with established breast cancers, and therefore, they know what to look for. On behalf of the Women’s Cancer Center, I warmly invite you to make your next appointment at Fox Chase. Learn more about Fox Chase mammograms.

You are about to meet Pamela, an active wife and mother and attorney. Although Pamela knew it was time to get a baseline mammogram when she turned 40 in 2011, she put it off for an entire year. Then, when her next birthday arrived, she took action and made an appointment at Fox Chase. Here is her story – and a brief video that takes you through her experience.
Be well, Bob

My name is Pamela. I am 41 years old and have 3 children. Despite knowing several women, some young, who were diagnosed with breast cancer in recent years, I never had a mammogram myself. Admittedly, I thought about it for 8 years. I finally decided that this was it, and I’m going to do it. A few weeks ago, I called my friend, Lisa, who works at Fox Chase Cancer Center. I mentioned to her that I’d never had a mammogram and she explained that unfortunately there are so many young women like me out there like me who have never done it. Lisa told me that she gets her annual mammograms at Fox Chase because of the expertise of the radiologists – and would not consider going anywhere else.

Making the Call
Just after Memorial Day Weekend, I called Fox Chase to make an appointment. Although I had to speak with several people (insurance questions!), everyone was so pleasant. I made an early morning appointment for later that week because I figured there would be less chance of me backing out!

Time to Go!
On Friday morning, I was so nervous, but I knew this was something I had to do. The drive to Fox Chase was really easy and took less time than I thought. I arrived at the East Garage, which had plenty of parking and was a short walk to the Women’s Center. I was relieved to see Lisa waiting for me, knowing she’d be there with me! When we walked into Mammography, we were greeted by Helen Ayers, who was very friendly. The paperwork was simple and easy and took just a few minutes to complete. Then, Jean Hummel walked in and introduced herself as the technician who would be doing my mammogram. I was feeling really nervous and asked Jean whether it would hurt. She said that it may be uncomfortable, but that she’d make it as quick and painless as possible. She took me to a waiting area and a small room with lockers where she handed me a little hospital shirt/robe. I put my belongings in my locker and took the key with me, which was conveniently attached to a bracelet. Then Jean and I walked to the Mammography Suite while Lisa waited in a room across the hall.

The Test
The room had a vertical machine with pedals on the floor and two glass plates extending from the machine. It never occurred to me that I’d be standing for the test. I’m not sure what I was expecting. I found myself staring at the plates and visualizing my breasts smooshed between them! Jean must have sensed my anxiety because she brought me over to the machine and explained that I’d be standing in front of it, that I’d feel a little pressure and that it shouldn’t really hurt. She also told me that it may take a few minutes to get the lighting right, but after the initial set up, it shouldn’t take that long. My shirt stayed on the whole time and just opened to expose whichever breast was being photographed. Naturally, I felt a little uncomfortable, but it wasn’t like I was standing in a room topless! Jean took a few pictures of each breast from the front and the side. As she had promised, the test did not hurt at all and was just a little uncomfortable. I looked down at one point at my breasts flattened between the glass plates and couldn’t help but laugh at the image.

The Results
After the test was completed, Jean and I walked over to the waiting room where Lisa was waiting for me. She asked me how it was, to which I responded that it wasn’t that bad! Jean informed me that Dr. Evers, the Director of Mammography, would be reading my mammogram. A few minutes later, Dr. Evers entered the waiting room and introduced herself to me. She told me that my mammogram was normal and that she’d see me back here next year. I was relieved to hear those words! She took time to answer some questions which I really appreciated.

What a Relief!
From start to finish, I was at Fox Chase for about one hour and now I have a baseline mammogram! I can’t believe it took me this long to finally get the test done. I am relieved that I did it and I’m glad I had it done at Fox Chase. Although I’m not looking forward to my next mammogram, I know that it is something I have to do and going to Fox Chase will make it that much easier and that much more comfortable.

Warmly,

Pamela Baker

Robert Burger, MD, Director, Women’s Cancer Center at Fox Chase Cancer Center

In the midst of this holiday season, I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you all the best in 2012. And as you set your New Year’s Resolutions, don’t forget to include one to take care of yourself.

In addition to eating a nutritious diet and exercising, please consider scheduling your annual health screenings, including a mammogram.

Why Choose Fox Chase for Digital Mammography?

Mammography is an X-ray of the breast that is most commonly used to detect breast cancer. Fox Chase has installed the LORAD Selenia™, providing full-field digital mammography — one of the world’s most sophisticated systems.

In addition to producing exceptional digital breast images, Selenia offers Fox Chase the ability to offer breast tomosynthesis – an extraordinary innovation poised to revolutionize how breast cancer is detected today.

Digital mammography offers women several advantages over film mammography:

• Better screening for women under age 50 or those with dense breasts
• Improvement in image storage and transmission (can be sent electronically)
• Fewer false positive results
• Uses less radiation
• Selenia features the largest detector available-imaging almost any breast without requiring multiple exposures
• Software is used to help radiologists interpret digital mammograms

Accurate & Early Diagnosis is Key to Successful Treatment

As a national breast cancer research center, Fox Chase has radiologists with specific expertise in breast cancer treatment and diagnosis.

Fox Chase is a leader in defining the role of stereotactic biopsy in diagnosing breast cancer. Our diagnostic radiologists, led by Kathryn Evers, MD, provide state-of-the-art breast imaging techniques.

To schedule a mammography appointment, call 215-728-2646 or 2631.

On behalf of the Women’s Cancer Center at Fox Chase, I would like to extend our best wishes for a happy, healthy and peaceful holiday season!

Be well,

Bob

Robert Burger, MD, Director, Women’s Cancer Center at Fox Chase Cancer Center

Robert Burger, MD, Director, Women’s Cancer Center at Fox Chase Cancer Center

Chances are that if you’re on this blog, you know something about Fox Chase’s Women’s Cancer Center.  Maybe you’re familiar with our expertise in breast and gynecologic cancer care, or you’ve visited our new offices in the Robert C. Young, M.D. pavilion.

For an in-depth look at our amazing facility—including details on the services we provide, from prevention to treatment to survivorship—I encourage you to check out our new webisode.

During this six-minute virtual tour, you’ll hear from me and a variety of different staff from around the Center as we explain exactly why the Women’s Cancer Center is the only one of its kind in the region.

See if you recognize a familiar face, or learn something new – and let us know what you think! We want to hear from you.

Be Well,

Bob

Robert Burger, MD, Director, Women’s Cancer Center at Fox Chase Cancer Center

While many of you know Jane Pepper from her leadership as President of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society and the celebrated Philadelphia International Flower Show, we know her as a devoted member of the Fox Chase Cancer Center Board of Directors.  She has made a great impact on our community.  In honor of Jane’s years of service and dedication to supporting our research and treatment efforts, Fox Chase has established our first Women’s Center symposium in her name.

The Jane Pepper Women’s Cancer Symposium, a free event slated for Saturday, November 6, 2010 from 2:30 – 4:00 pm, will convene oncologists, cancer survivors and their families, authors, and interested members of the public to discuss issues surrounding cancers that affect women and to celebrate survivorship. Join us from 4:00 – 5:30 pm for a catered reception and tours of the Women’s Cancer Center.

Reserve Your Spot Today!

This event is free and open to the public, however space is limited. Please respond by November 1 to Wanda Ford at 215-728-3163 or wanda.ford@fccc.edu.. We hope that you will join us for an inspirational and educational afternoon.

Meet the Moderator:

Fox Chase’s Dr. Mary Daly, chair of the Department of Clinical Genetics, will moderate a panel discussion featuring local attorney and ovarian cancer survivor Emily Beck, and authors Cathy Bueti and Kerri Conners, followed by a reception and tour of the Women’s Cancer Center.  These vibrant women have all contributed strong voices to cancer support and advocacy through their writing and speaking, and we know you will find their perspectives to be inspiring.

For a bit of background:

Emily Beck, 38, is a three-year survivor of Stage IIIA ovarian cancer and active young adult cancer advocate.  Emily is a strong voice within the cancer community, sharing her ongoing journey as a cancer survivor on the blog See Emily Play and volunteering with Imerman Angels to lend support to young adults currently undergoing treatment.

Cathy Bueti, a nine-year survivor, has been a panel participant at various cancer conferences and events to speak about her journey with breast cancer.  In May 2009, she published the moving memoir Breastless in the City to chronicle her experience as a young widow dating through cancer treatment.  She also maintains a blog and website, cathybueti.com.

Kerri Conner was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer at age 33.  The daughter of a breast cancer survivor and the mother of a young child, Kerri wanted to encourage women with breast cancer and other adults to have conversations with young children about the treatment process.  Kerry published My Mommy Has Breast Cancer but She is OK! this past February, and she is also the 2009 recipient of the Susan G. Komen Philadelphia chapter’s “Breast Cancer Survivor of the Year” award for her community efforts.

Tour and Book Signing

Following the panel discussion, we will host a reception and tours of the Women’s Cancer Center for those who have not yet seen our amazing new facilities since they opened this past Spring.  Cathy and Kerri will also have copies of their books on sale and will be available for book signings.

I hope to see you there!

Be Well,

Bob

Robert Burger, MD, Director, Women’s Cancer Center at Fox Chase Cancer Center

Early in the morning of August 7, we received an e-mail from Mark Corkery, who was desperately looking for his wife’s wedding ring. He thought it might have been left at the hospital in the evening, after she passed away.  The gold band was plain, with an inscription, “To Beth. Love Always, Mark.”

Whenever Beth was admitted to the hospital, he would wear the ring on his pinky. After she died, Mark didn’t remember what happened — other than it was missing the next morning.

Beth Corkery had been listed among our “success stories” living with stage IV breast cancer for several years, thanks to the expertise of her oncologist, Dr. Lori Goldstein, and access to a clinical trial that had closed. Dr. Roger Cohen helped her gain permission to remain on the study medication, which was working for her.

When Beth was 35 and her children were age four and six, she picked up an issue of Glamour magazine and read an article about breast self-examination. Since she had no family history of breast cancer, she had not yet had a mammogram and wasn’t even sure how to conduct a self-exam. But she did examine herself for the first time and detected a lump. Although her husband did not feel the lump himself, he encouraged her to seek medical care. He went so far as to leave notes taped to the bathroom mirror, refrigerator, back door and on her steering wheel that read “Make a Dr. appointment.”

Beth was diagnosed with breast cancer and began treatment at her local hospital. Several years later, the cancer recurred. This time her mother insisted she come to Fox Chase for treatment. To appease her mom, Beth made an appointment with Lori Goldstein. Although her cancer eventually would spread throughout her body, Dr. Goldstein was able to extend her years on earth and with a good quality of life.

We had the pleasure of working with Beth when she originally shared her story on the Fox Chase web site. Because she was so well-spoken and had a positive outlook, we invited Beth to participate in several media relations activities, including a 6-ABC Breast Cancer special in October 2009, an appearance in the Love Versus Cancer video, and inclusion in an editor’s letter in Glamour magazine in October 2009. Last June, when President Obama held a Town Hall meeting on the state of health care, ABC News reached out to us looking for a terminal patient who might like to attend. Beth and her husband, Mark, were delighted to participate. In the days that followed, her local newspapers wrote articles about her momentous trip.

On Friday, August 6, at the age of 43, Beth, whose son was now 14 and daughter 12, passed away at Fox Chase. Her husband sent the note below, which I am sharing here because I firmly believe that “success” in managing cancer is measured in many different ways. Although Beth eventually lost her fight with cancer, she enjoyed several good years with her family that she might not have otherwise had, thanks to the support of a loving family and the care she received here.  Mark is grateful to the physicians and staff of Fox Chase, and has already talked about planning an event to raise money for breast cancer research in Beth’s memory. Here are his words:

My wife Elizabeth’s cancer returned in 2005. We switched to Fox Chase Cancer Center, and soon realized we should have been there from the start. Dr. Lori Goldstein has seen Beth through many highs and lows, even going so far as to call in from Italy while on vacation to monitor Beth’s status. While Beth struggled with her disease, Lori gave her the precious gift of QUALITY time with my children & me. Fear is part of facing cancer, for the caregiver as well as patient. If cancer were a human enemy, Lori would be a warrior cancer feared. We had confidence every time we entered her office.

Eventually, Beth’s body wearied of the fight, and her lungs began to fail. Enter Dr. Earl King (Director of Fox Chase’s Respiratory Care unit).  Beth saw Dr. King after her cancer had made a major offensive, yet he gave her the breath to say a final “I love you” to our children before she passed away. His compassion for our family has made him PART of our family in my book.

Beth’s passing wasn’t a failure, but a triumph. My wife, and both of these doctors, has shown my children the true meaning of heroic.

Mark Corkery

We miss Beth and are grateful to have known her and enjoyed her generous spirit while she was at Fox Chase. We are also happy and relieved to report that Mark recovered Beth’s wedding ring.

Be well,

Bob

Robert Burger, MD, Director, Women’s Cancer Center at Fox Chase Cancer Center

What if you could help save a life while picking up your morning cup of coffee?

Well, this summer, you can! When you (or your friends and family) stop at any Pennsylvania Wawa convenience store, you can make a donation to benefit Fox Chase Cancer Center’s mobile mammography van, which helps women in our area receive much-needed breast cancer screenings. Now through Sunday, August 29, Wawa stores will display coin collection boxes by the register where you can simply drop your donation or extra change, and any funds raised will support our mobile mammography van.

Our mobile mammography van is the only one of its kind in the Philadelphia region: It provides more than 4,000 screenings at local workplaces and in the community to ensure women are able to detect breast cancer at its earliest stages. Making a donation at a Pennsylvania Wawa this summer will enable us to continue providing this essential service, which is making a difference in the lives of women like Julie.

In June 2007, Julie missed her yearly mammogram appointment. Her employer had scheduled the Fox Chase mobile mammography van to visit their offices, but she forgot the appointment. Her sister had just been diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2007, so she figured the likelihood that she would also have breast cancer was slim. Between this belief and her busy work schedule, rescheduling a mammogram was not a top priority on Julie’s list.

When Julie missed her appointment, the Fox Chase technicians called to reschedule, even promising to stay late on the last day of exams because they were booked. Julie went for her test and the mammogram detected that she had early Stage 2 breast cancer.

“I’m not sure I would have followed up with my mammogram if Fox Chase had not seen me that day,” recalled Julie. “The mammography van saved my life.”

By providing the mobile mammography van services to area workplaces and the greater community, we hope to give busy women like Julie the opportunity to make time for their health. We are very fortunate to have Wawa Charities Program as a partner and are extremely thankful for their support. So spread the word, and stop by your neighborhood Wawa today – and throughout the summer! Your donations will make a great impact in funding this crucial program.

Thank you for your continued support.

Be well,
Bob