Cancer Care That Hits Close To Home

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor and remember all those who have fought the disease. While this month may be the time when breast cancer is at the forefront, it is a reality every day for our patients, providers, staff and volunteers at the Adena Cancer Center.

That reality started for Brenda Williams after getting the results of her breast biopsy. Once Brenda was diagnosed with breast cancer, her thoughts immediately went to spending more time with her family.

“The thought of spending less time with my three grandchildren was devastating,” Williams said. “One of the reasons why I chose the Adena Cancer Center for my treatment was because it was close to home, allowing me to spend more time with them.”

It was winter 2016 when Williams was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. She was directed by her doctor to have a mastectomy removing her left breast, in which 29 lymph nodes were also removed.

Williams remained positive while going through her recovery and thankful that her treatment was near her Pike County residence. “It was a great relief that I didn’t have to travel far to get the quality help and care I received,” she explained. “The Adena physicians and staff are so knowledgeable and gave me hope. I am so thankful for them.”

When patients like Brenda first arrive at the Adena Cancer Center they are greeted by a nurse navigator who coordinates their care with Adena’s expert surgeons, radiation oncologist and medical oncologist to review their medical and family history, biopsy and mammogram results to develop a specialized treatment plan. Adena Cancer Center caregivers are quick to say they don’t just treat cancer, they treat YOUR cancer.

Williams added, “The Adena Cancer Center is a new facility with the latest equipment just like those in Columbus.”

Certified by the American College of Surgeons, the Adena Cancer Center is ever growing, expanding their number of physicians, specialties and types of treatments making it possible for nearly every cancer patient in south central Ohio to stay close to home for care.

“Wanting more time with my grandchildren was my only wish and Adena gave me that,” Williams exclaimed.

As a survivor, she now tries to maintain a healthier lifestyle; including watching what she eats and riding at least 10 miles a day on the stationary bike her husband bought her.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women with normal risk for breast cancer start getting annual mammograms at age 40. Women should talk with their doctor about their own personal risk factors.

Adena Health System offers digital mammograms at five locations giving our patients the fastest and most accurate results possible: Adena Regional Medical Center, Adena Greenfield Medical Center, Adena Health Center – Western Avenue in Chillicothe,  Adena Health Center –  Jackson and Adena Health Center –  Waverly.

For more information on the Adena Cancer Center, visit www.adena.org/cancer  or call 740-542-303.