Cancer Archives | Norton Healthcare Tue, 05 Aug 2025 13:46:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://nortonhealthcare.com/wp-content/uploads/cropped-NHC_V_2CPOS_CMYK-32x32.jpg Cancer Archives | Norton Healthcare 32 32 For Tom, Christmas comes in September https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/for-tom-christmas-comes-in-september Tue, 05 Aug 2025 13:46:32 +0000 https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/ To Tom Conquest, Bike to Beat Cancer isn’t just an event on the calendar, it’s his “Christmas,” a holiday he holds near and dear. Every September, he rides with purpose, passion and pride, honoring the people he has lost as well as the strength he has found as a cancer survivor. Tom first joined Bike...

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To Tom Conquest, Bike to Beat Cancer isn’t just an event on the calendar, it’s his “Christmas,” a holiday he holds near and dear. Every September, he rides with purpose, passion and pride, honoring the people he has lost as well as the strength he has found as a cancer survivor.

Tom first joined Bike to Beat Cancer in 2013, inspired by his best friend, Ken, who was diagnosed with brain cancer and received treatment at Norton Cancer Institute. He vividly remembers taking Ken to appointments and spotting a bicycle in the lobby, an early spark that would lead to something much bigger.

“Ken loved biking,” Tom said. “Riding felt like a way to carry his memory forward.”

Bike to Beat Cancer is an event that brings together hundreds of people across the community to ride, walk and rally behind one shared mission: to fight back against cancer.

But in 2021, the cause became even more personal. Tom was diagnosed with tongue cancer and underwent six weeks of intense radiation. He lost 70 pounds during treatment. Just two days after finishing his final radiation session, he showed up to ride the 35-mile route in Bike to Beat Cancer. He calls that day his “most proud moment,” describing reaching the finish line as being like a NASCAR victory lap over cancer.

“It was not about speed; it was about making it through,” Tom said.  

Now a regular participant, Tom fundraises, driven by the belief that everyone, regardless of age or experience, can be part of this mission. He loves all things about the event, but most of all, he loves the people.

“You see every kind of person out there. Survivors. Families. First-time riders. People who just show up to support. It’s special.”

This year, as Tom joins the hundreds of other riders on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Norton Cancer Institute – Brownsboro, he will ride with the same message: Cancer may have left its mark, but it didn’t win.

Join Tom and hundreds of others at Bike to Beat Cancer. With 10 ways to participate, there is an option for everyone.

Help the participants in Bike to Beat Cancer 2025 reach their goal of raising $500,000. With 10 ways to participate, there is an opportunity for everyone.

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Mike Cassity: A coach’s playbook for fighting cancer https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/coach-cassity-cancer-treatment Mon, 09 Jun 2025 15:53:47 +0000 https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/ Mike Cassity — known simply as “Coach” to everyone — has spent 43 years as a college football coach at 18 universities, including nine as defensive coordinator. Twelve years ago, while coaching in the Southeastern Conference at the University of Kentucky, his life took an unexpected turn when what he thought was simple back pain...

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Mike Cassity — known simply as “Coach” to everyone — has spent 43 years as a college football coach at 18 universities, including nine as defensive coordinator. Twelve years ago, while coaching in the Southeastern Conference at the University of Kentucky, his life took an unexpected turn when what he thought was simple back pain led to a devastating diagnosis: multiple myeloma, an incurable bone marrow cancer.

“The room started spinning. I was trying to get my balance. I couldn’t think of anything,” he said, describing the moment he received his diagnosis.

To a lifelong athlete who lived a healthy lifestyle, the news was especially shocking. Coach had always been the picture of health — a runner who took care of his body and lived what he thought was all the right ways. Now, he was playing a game against the most powerful opponent he’d faced in his life.

Treatment kickoff

“My girlfriend did some research,” Coach said.

That research led them to seek myeloma treatment in Little Rock, Arkansas.

The initial treatment was grueling: a stem cell transplant that kept him hospitalized for over a month. His hair fell out, including his eyebrows, and his strength waned. But Coach approached his cancer battle with the same discipline and determination that defined his coaching career.

A friend who also had faced a cancer battle advised Coach to walk every day.

Coach took this counsel seriously, starting with small laps around his hospital bed, then venturing into the hallway, and eventually throughout the hospital.

Doctors told Coach that recovery typically takes 100 days, but he set a more ambitious goal: 64 days — the time remaining until the first day of fall practice at Western Kentucky University, where he was coaching at the time. Against the odds, he made it.

Multiple myeloma can be particularly challenging, because it adapts to treatments.

According to Coach, “This cancer about every three years figures out the regiment and it comes back.”

During one recurrence, his arm snapped in half while working out, requiring a steel rod insertion. Another time, during his second stem cell transplant, a childhood virus resurfaced, creating a life-threatening situation.

Coach remembers that harrowing moment, packed in ice as medical staff rushed around him.

“I closed my eyes and said, ‘Please, Lord, give me more time on this earth to help others,’” he said.

A blitz for Coach

In 2019, facing another recurrence, Coach was offered a new option: an immunotherapy drug called talquetamab that was still in clinical trials. He was initially skeptical.

“That sounds like last-ditch effort,” he said.

But he decided to try it after his Norton Cancer Institute oncologist, Don A. Stevens, M.D., in Louisville, Kentucky,, assured him that he could return to traditional chemotherapy if needed.

The results transformed his life. Instead of exhausting chemotherapy regimens that left him fatigued and bloated from steroids, Coach now receives a simple shot every two weeks and occasionally a 20-minute infusion of a bone-strengthening drug.

“I’ve lost the weight from the steroids. I’ve got more energy, and it’s really been a blessing to me,” he said. “The immunotherapy is a way of conquering cancer, extending life. It greatly increased my quality of life.”

This improvement allowed Coach to return to the sidelines after a four-year retirement. Though he acknowledges he’s not “perfect,” the immunotherapy has given him back the energy to pursue his passion and live life fully.

Trusting the team

Throughout his cancer journey, Coach has developed deep relationships with his care team at Norton Cancer Institute. From the registration staff to the nurses on the fifth floor to Dr. Stevens., he knows them all — their stories, their families, their lives.

“I’ve been to three other facilities, and — don’t get me wrong — they all treated me great,” Coach said. “But when I came here and met the team, they got to know me.”

Mindset matters

Coach credits his survival not just to medical advances, but to his unwavering positive attitude — a mindset he’s instilled in his three sons and one daughter throughout their lives.

“When you wake up in the morning, you don’t control gas prices, grocery prices. But what you do have control over is your attitude,” he said. “And no matter how bad a night I might have, I’m going to wake up the next day with positive attitude.”

Coach approaches each day with gratitude and purpose, whether he’s coaching, hunting, fishing, or exploring Louisville’s bourbon tours with his girlfriend Karen during their “Sunday fun days.”

“All of us have an hourglass with sand running through,” Coach said. “I don’t know how long yours is, mine is, or anyone else’s. But tomorrow morning will be the first day of the rest of your life. What are you going to do with it?”

For Coach, the answer is clear: Keep fighting, keep coaching, and keep inspiring others with his story of perseverance and hope.

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Norton Cancer Institute: Advancing cancer care through clinical research https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/cancer-clinical-trials-at-norton Wed, 04 Jun 2025 18:25:54 +0000 https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/ Clinical trials play a vital role in discovering new cancer treatments. Each year, Norton Cancer Institute participates in numerous research studies that help develop better ways to treat cancer. Understanding clinical trials: The 4 phases When a new cancer treatment is being developed, it goes through four distinct testing phases before becoming widely available: Phase...

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Clinical trials play a vital role in discovering new cancer treatments. Each year, Norton Cancer Institute participates in numerous research studies that help develop better ways to treat cancer.

Understanding clinical trials: The 4 phases

When a new cancer treatment is being developed, it goes through four distinct testing phases before becoming widely available:

Phase 1: Tests safety and dosing in a small group (fewer than 100 people)

  • Determines if the treatment is safe
  • Identifies what dose can be tolerated without serious side effects

Phase 2: Involves more participants to evaluate:

  • How effective the treatment is
  • What side effects might occur and how common they are

Phase 3: Includes even more participants over a longer period to:

  • Study long-term effects.
  • Confirm the treatment works consistently.
  • Help the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decide if the treatment can be approved for public use.

Phase 4: After FDA approval, when required, continues to:

  • Study the treatment in wider populations.
  • Gather more safety information.
  • Explore new uses for the treatment.

By participating in clinical trials, cancer patients can access innovative treatments that aren’t yet widely available.

Norton Cancer Institute’s leadership in Phase 1 trials

Norton Cancer Institute specializes in early-stage clinical trials, particularly Phase 1 studies. These trials represent the leading edge of cancer treatment research.

Patients who join Phase 1 trials:

  • Help advance cancer research.
  • May access promising new treatments before they’re widely available.
  • Receive close monitoring from a specialized research team.

Breakthrough treatments being studied include:

Immunotherapy

Norton Cancer Institute researchers are studying treatments that help your immune system fight cancer, including:

  • Specialized antibodies that target specific immune pathways
  • Cell therapies that reprogram immune cells to attack cancer
  • Cancer vaccines that teach the body to recognize cancer cells
  • Targeted drug combinations that deliver treatment directly to tumors

Treatments like pembrolizumab, nivolumab and CAR T-cell therapy already have shown remarkable success in certain cancers.

Precision medicine

Today’s cancer treatment can be tailored to each person’s unique genetic makeup. Norton Cancer Institute uses advanced genetic testing to:

  • Match patients with treatments most likely to work for their specific cancer.
  • Reduce unnecessary side effects.
  • Target specific molecules that drive cancer growth.

Early detection

Better imaging and screening technologies help doctors find cancer earlier, when treatment is often more effective.

Making advanced cancer care local

Norton Cancer Institute brings leading-edge clinical trials to our community. This means:

  • Local patients can access treatments previously only available at major national centers.
  • Families avoid the financial burden and stress of traveling far from home.
  • Our community benefits from the latest advances in cancer care.

Milestone achievement in 2024

In 2024, Norton Cancer Institute made history as the first health care organization worldwide to treat a patient with a brand-new cancer medication in a first-in-human clinical trial. This groundbreaking ONC-841 trial studies a new intravenous treatment for advanced solid tumors that have spread beyond their original location.

“Through cancer research, we’ve witnessed a profound transformation in patient care,” said John T. Hamm, M.D., thoracic medical oncologist with Norton Cancer Institute. “These trials are not just a glimpse into the future; they are a testament to the dedication of our researchers, clinicians and, most important, our patients.”

This program demonstrates how personalized medicine — treatments designed for each person’s unique genetic profile — can improve effectiveness while reducing side effects, offering new hope to cancer patients.

“As we reflect on this achievement and the advancements made in cancer research, we recognize the profound impact of research on combating cancer,” Dr. Hamm said. “Let us extend our efforts to reach new heights of innovation and compassion in the service of those who entrust us with their care.”

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First of its kind breast reconstruction surgery available at Norton Healthcare https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/first-of-its-kind-breast-reconstruction-surgery-available-at-norton-healthcare Fri, 16 May 2025 14:30:10 +0000 https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/ Imagine a world where every woman recovering from breast cancer surgery can feel whole again. That is now possible thanks to new technology available through Norton Cancer Institute and Norton Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. After a mastectomy, a patient may wish to have breast reconstruction, which involves multiple steps to prepare for implants. Until now,...

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Imagine a world where every woman recovering from breast cancer surgery can feel whole again. That is now possible thanks to new technology available through Norton Cancer Institute and Norton Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.

After a mastectomy, a patient may wish to have breast reconstruction, which involves multiple steps to prepare for implants. Until now, implants were only available for average-size breasts. Now, a new Food and Drug Administration-approved option is available for larger sizes. Norton Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery providers performed the first implant procedure in Kentucky using MENTOR MemoryGel Enhance silicone implants.

“Despite being a standard part of post-mastectomy care, reconstruction options have not kept pace with the diverse needs of today’s patient population,” said Brian P. Thornton, M.D., plastic and reconstructive surgeon with Norton Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, who performed the first procedure with the new implant. “Patients who require a larger-volume implant than what was previously available now have an option that helps them feel whole again.”

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that 157,740 women underwent breast reconstruction in 2023. However, many more did not have access to a reconstructive implant that would restore their breast size to what it once was.  

Silicone implants are desired by many patients because of their natural look and feel. Often, they also are lighter weight.

“We want every woman to have an option to feel like themselves again after undergoing a mastectomy,” Dr. Thornton said. “Until now, this was not possible and made a breast cancer diagnosis that much more traumatic.”

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy is available through Norton Healthcare’s Breast Health Program, accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). The program offers comprehensive services, from screening through diagnosis, employing several patient navigators to make the patient journey seamless and as comfortable as possible.

“Patients who must undergo a mastectomy often have decreased self-confidence, concerns about their physical appearance and even feelings of loss,” Dr. Thornton said. “It’s important for every person needing this part of the healing process to have options and a path forward.”

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Program provides comprehensive lung cancer treatment https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/comprehensive-lung-cancer-treatment Mon, 05 May 2025 17:47:19 +0000 http://nortonhealthcaretest1.flywheelsites.com/?page_id=2958 Norton Cancer Institute’s Comprehensive Lung Center gives eligible patients access to the latest in lung cancer screenings, same-day follow-up appointments with medical oncology following a confirmed cancer diagnosis, and fast access to treatment and support services. It is part of the first health system in Kentucky to become a GO2 for Lung Cancer Center of Excellence in both care...

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Norton Cancer Institute’s Comprehensive Lung Center gives eligible patients access to the latest in lung cancer screenings, same-day follow-up appointments with medical oncology following a confirmed cancer diagnosis, and fast access to treatment and support services. It is part of the first health system in Kentucky to become a GOfor Lung Cancer Center of Excellence in both care continuum and screenings. 

“If a patient has a suspicious finding on a screening, we move rapidly to make sure everything possible is done to get answers for them,” said Joseph Flynn, D.O., MPH, FACP, chief administrative officer, Norton Medical Group, and physician-in-chief, Norton Cancer Institute.

With two locations, Norton Cancer Institute Downtown and Norton Cancer Institute – Brownsboro, the center combines four multidisciplinary components to fight lung cancer: prevention, screening, diagnosis and treatment.

Lung cancer prevention: Smoking is the single biggest lung cancer risk factor, so smoking prevention and cessation are key. For anyone who smokes, the sooner you quit, the lower your lung cancer risk becomes. Norton Healthcare continues to expand smoking cessation options for patients and the public.

Lung cancer screening: Early diagnosis of lung cancer is critical. Low-dose CT scans, which can detect even the smallest tumors, are used to screen for lung cancer in individuals who meet established age and smoking history criteria. The center’s integrated screening component delivers two important benefits for patients:

  • A navigator to assist patients through the screening process with education and resources
  • Rapid access to a team of specialists if a suspicious finding is detected

Lung cancer diagnosis: The Comprehensive Lung Center works with patients and their primary care team to develop a treatment plan specifically for each patient’s physical and emotional needs. Fortunately, not all nodules identified by CT scan are cancerous, but when lung cancer is diagnosed, patients see a team of highly trained specialists who work together toward the common goal of a cure.

The Comprehensive Lung Center has specialists in cardiothoracic surgery, radiation, medical oncology, pulmonology and other disciplines, who are available to see the patient in one visit. This provides convenience for the patient and is important to the specialists who work together to develop a comprehensive care plan.

Lung cancer treatment: No cancer patient should have to wait to start the journey toward a cure. The Comprehensive Lung Center combines compassionate, whole-patient care with advanced technology and treatment. Customized treatment plans may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and targeted molecular therapies for certain subtypes of lung cancer.

Patients have access to numerous clinical trials through Norton Cancer Institute’s research program.

Therapeutic and supportive care services include yoga, massage, art and music therapy, nutritional counseling, and support groups — all available from day one.

In recent years, research has demonstrated up to a 20% decrease in lung cancer mortality for people at high risk who undergo lung cancer screening with low-dose CT scans.

“As with all forms of cancer, the earlier lung cancer is detected and the earlier treatment can begin, the better the chance for positive outcomes,” Dr. Flynn said. “Should you be diagnosed with cancer, we know you will have many questions and want answers right away. That’s why we offer same-day appointments with a cancer specialist.”

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Oaks Day Is About More Than Pink and Horses https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/oaks-day-is-about-more-than-pink-and-horses Thu, 01 May 2025 14:55:22 +0000 https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/ The Longines Kentucky Oaks is a great day for Louisville. What started in 1875 as a race for 3-year-old fillies has grown into one of the longest-running sporting events in the United States. The flower of the day is the stargazer lily, a large, fragrant bloom with dark pink stripes and speckles. While this botanical...

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The Longines Kentucky Oaks is a great day for Louisville. What started in 1875 as a race for 3-year-old fillies has grown into one of the longest-running sporting events in the United States. The flower of the day is the stargazer lily, a large, fragrant bloom with dark pink stripes and speckles. While this botanical beauty may have given a start to the “pink” theme of the Oaks —inspiring pink dresses, hats, jackets and ties — it has come to have a much deeper meaning.

Oaks Day honors women who have survived or are in treatment for breast or ovarian cancer. You’ll see this year’s 151 honorees walking the turf track in the Survivors Parade prior to the running of this year’s Oaks race.

This day also is an opportunity to talk about prevention and early detection of these cancers that affect nearly 300,000 people a year in the United States. Breast cancer alone is one of the top causes of cancer death in women — second only to lung cancer — according to the American Cancer Society. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show Kentucky’s rates of breast and ovarian cancer as similar to those of the entire nation: More than 133 women out of 100,000 women are expected to receive a new diagnosis of breast cancer in Kentucky this year, and 10 out of every 100,000 will get ovarian cancer.

Thankfully, high-profile events such as the Kentucky Oaks help call attention to these issues. However, they do more than that: They raise funds critical to bringing down these statistics. Churchill Downs will donate to two organizations, one of which is Norton Cancer Institute, the leading provider of breast cancer care in Louisville and Southern Indiana. Funds specifically benefit the Derby Divas Breast Health Center. In fact, Churchill Downs has donated more than $1 million in support to charities over 16 years to fund cancer screenings and care for underserved women.

We know that the breast cancer death rate has been on the decline since 1989. While there are constant innovations in cancer treatment, awareness and screenings have increased thanks to events such as the Kentucky Oaks — and the funding it raises.

If you’re taking a trip to Churchill Downs for this year’s Oaks, enjoy your day. But also be sure to recognize the importance of the pink (and teal) that you will wear. And know that just by being there, you are part of saving lives.

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Reconstructing damage from skin cancer https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/reconstructing-damage-from-skin-cancer Mon, 13 Jan 2025 17:12:19 +0000 https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/ Like many boys of his generation, Randy Stewart, age 76, grew up playing and working outside on the family farm. Other than summer heat, Randy rarely thought about the sun. In the 1950s, sunscreen wasn’t readily available, and Randy was never one to wear a hat. In fact, he admits he dislikes them. Today, he’s...

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Like many boys of his generation, Randy Stewart, age 76, grew up playing and working outside on the family farm. Other than summer heat, Randy rarely thought about the sun. In the 1950s, sunscreen wasn’t readily available, and Randy was never one to wear a hat. In fact, he admits he dislikes them.

Today, he’s a bit more cautious about how much time he spends in the sun. In the past three years, Randy has had two basal cell carcinoma skin cancers removed from his face, the first requiring significant reconstruction due to the lesion’s proximity to the left side of his nose and eye socket.

Randy said he didn’t think too much about the initial spot at first. When it grew more noticeable, he asked his primary care physician about it. According to Randy, his family medicine physician, Karalee Bessinger, M.D., at Norton Community Medical Associates primary care in Carrollton, Kentucky, referred him to a dermatologist in LaGrange, Kentucky. That doctor wanted to refer him to a facility in Louisville, Kentucky, because of the lesion’s location and the intricate surgery it would take to remove it.

Not one for city traffic, Randy sought another opinion, turning to Jonathan Hanson, M.D., otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist) with Norton King’s Daughters’ Health in Madison, Indiana. Dr. Hanson met Randy in January 2022 and assured him that he could remove the lesion and provide any necessary reconstruction.

“The art of facial reconstructive surgery takes into account a lot of factors,” said Dr. Hanson, adding that about 15% of his practice includes skin cancer removals on the face, ears, head and neck. “Elasticity of the skin varies from the nose to the cheek to the eye. It’s also important to factor in the shape and location of a patient’s natural skin lines and contours. The goal is to meet surgical needs while minimizing any noticeable incisions when healing is complete.”

During Randy’s first surgery, Dr. Hanson opened a large flap on the left side of Randy’s face, following the natural skin lines under his eye to the edge of his mouth. After fully removing the cancerous lesion, he carefully stitched the seam back together using the natural skin folds along his cheek and eye. Today, you would never know Randy underwent significant facial surgery.

“He’s a fabulous doctor,” Randy said. “He told me exactly what he was going to do and followed up with everything he said he was going to do.”

In May 2024, Randy returned to Dr. Hanson for a second area of concern: an elongated bump just below his right eye. A less extensive surgery was needed, and Dr. Hanson again developed a plan of action and executed it perfectly.

“One reason I enjoy the work is the creativity,” Dr. Hanson said. “Every face and every person is unique. There’s no cookbook or recipe.”

After a life spent farming, working at a factory and serving his country in the Army, Randy relishes his slower pace. He enjoys being home, spending time in his self-proclaimed man cave and watching car racing on television. He and his wife, Carolyn, still live on a 60-acre farm outside Carrollton, near family and friends.

These days on the farm, one thing is different. If you see Randy outside mowing or working on a project, he’s wearing a straw hat. It’s a small price to pay to help keep the sun off his face.

“The earlier we find skin cancers, the better,” Dr. Hanson said. “The smaller they are, we get much better results. It’s easy to ignore them. Any spot that is raised or pigmented or grows or changes needs to be reviewed by a family provider. If they think it’s suspicious, the patient can be referred for follow-up.”

What you need to know about skin cancer

How common is skin cancer?

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, at least 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70.

Common types of skin cancer

The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma.

  • BCC – Most often develops on skin areas typically exposed to the sun, especially the face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders and back.
  • SCC – Most often found on sun-exposed areas, such as the ears, face, scalp, neck and hands. SCCs sometimes can grow rapidly and metastasize to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
  • Melanoma – Often resembles a mole and can appear anywhere on the body. Tanning bed use increases the risk for melanoma. Melanoma is the most dangerous of the three types of skin cancer.

Prevention

Protecting your skin from the sun includes wearing clothing that covers most of the skin, a hat and sunglasses. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Sunscreen must be reapplied often to be effective.

Early detection

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a head-to-toe self-exam of your skin every month and a yearly exam by a dermatologist or primary care provider.

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Genetic testing for the BRCA gene mutation helped save her life https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/genetic-testing-for-the-brca-gene-mutation-helped-save-her-life Mon, 06 Jan 2025 14:38:16 +0000 https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/ Finding out you have a high risk of cancer doesn’t have to be a terrifying experience. As Kinsey Woodson learned, it can be an empowering way to prioritize your health. “The more I can normalize genetic testing, the more lives we can save,” she said. At age 19, Kinsey tested positive for the BRCA1 gene...

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Finding out you have a high risk of cancer doesn’t have to be a terrifying experience. As Kinsey Woodson learned, it can be an empowering way to prioritize your health.

“The more I can normalize genetic testing, the more lives we can save,” she said.

At age 19, Kinsey tested positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation. A BRCA (breast cancer) gene mutation increases a person’s risk for developing several types of cancer, primarily breast cancer and ovarian cancer in women.

Kinsey’s grandmother died of ovarian cancer at age 44, and her mother later tested positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation, undergoing a preventive double mastectomy in her 30s.

“I grew up knowing that I might have this gene mutation,” she said. “When I found out I had tested positive for BRCA1, I began preventive screenings at Norton Healthcare.”

Preventive screenings and surgery
Throughout her 20s, Kinsey underwent regular mammograms and cancer screenings, often as the youngest patient in the waiting room.

“I had such great support from doctors and nurses every step of the way,” she said.

In December 2020, Kinsey began working with an oncology team at Norton Cancer Institute, due to her BRCA1 gene mutation diagnosis and plans for preventive surgeries. Her case would require a multidisciplinary approach, with care coordinated between surgery, oncology and support services.

After nearly a decade of screenings, she was scheduled to undergo a preventive double mastectomy to significantly reduce her cancer risk. Her care team, led by Tiffany S. Berry, M.D., breast surgeon with the Norton Healthcare Breast Health Program, made the critical decision to postpone Kinsey’s surgery, due to low platelet levels and stroke risk.

“I believe Dr. Berry saved my life, not just because she performed the surgery but because she didn’t do it when my platelets were too low. Her judgment was incredible,” Kinsey said. “This surgery reduced my breast cancer risk from 88% down to 5%. My risk is so low now that I don’t live in fear.”

A team of doctors at Norton Cancer Institute, including medical oncologist Don A. Stevens, M.D., worked diligently to investigate Kinsey’s condition until they could determine that she was healthy enough to safely undergo surgery.

“Dr. Stevens worked with me for almost a year to try different treatments and transfusions that would get my platelets high enough to be safe for surgery,” Kinsey said. “I got to know all the staff in his office well throughout 2023, and they were always so kind and helpful during a difficult, scary time for me and my family. They all helped get me through to the other side of the surgery safely.”

Throughout her journey, Kinsey has received continuous support through the Norton Cancer Institute Adolescent & Young Adult (AYA) Program, which provides patients with targeted support, medical care, education and resources to help navigate the challenges and stress of a cancer journey.

According to Kinsey, Joseph M. Flynn, D.O., MPH, FACP, chief administrative officer of Norton Medical Group and physician-in-chief at Norton Cancer Institute, was hands-on, diligent and proactive in always making sure she received the best care possible at the AYA clinic.

“He checks in on me as soon as my labs come back, even if it’s on an evening or weekend, to make sure we can take the next step to help me get better as quickly as possible,” she said.

Kinsey is deeply grateful for the care she has received over the years at Norton Healthcare — from her oncology and plastic surgery teams to the nurses who guided her through preoperative and regular visits. She attributes her resilience to a strong support system, which includes her husband, Dyuce, her sisters and her team at the Office of Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear.

As a yearslong patient of Norton Healthcare, Kinsey remains impressed with how her care was coordinated seamlessly among numerous services and specialties.

“In total, I’ve been treated at Norton Children’s emergency department, Norton Cancer Institute (including breast health program, hematology, oncology, plastic and reconstructive surgery, and the AYA program), Norton Children’s Heart Institute (for pediatric heart issues that have since been cured) and once at the Norton Brownsboro [Hospital] ER for a sports injury,” she said. “It’s been a truly wild ride — and Norton has been a huge part of it for many, many years.”


Spreading a message to help save lives
Advocating for genetic testing and raising awareness about the BRCA gene mutation have become part of Kinsey’s personal mission.

“I tell my story as often as I can, and I’m constantly encouraging women to get tested,” she said. “It’s so important to know your risk and take control of your health.”

Kinsey’s message to other women, especially those with a family history of cancer, is clear: Don’t be afraid of genetic testing, and don’t wait to act if you are at risk.

“Getting tested was one of the most empowering decisions I ever made,” she said. “Preventive screenings and surgeries gave me peace of mind and drastically reduced my risk.”

Today, Kinsey remains cancer-free and is optimistic about her future. She was married earlier this year and is excited to someday start a family. Through her job at the Governor’s Office, she is committed to fighting for increased access to health care for all, while remaining passionate about sharing her own health journey to help save lives.

“Thanks to my Norton care team, and the early actions I took, I’ve been able to get ahead of cancer,” she said. “There’s peace of mind knowing you’ve done everything you can to protect your health.”

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What’s the right age to start getting Pap smear tests? https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/what-age-do-you-need-a-pap-smear Mon, 04 Nov 2024 15:33:53 +0000 https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/ A Pap smear is a cervical cancer screening commonly done at the same time as a pelvic exam. An HPV test also can be done at the same time. Anyone with a cervix should get their first Pap smear at age 21 and another every three years before turning 30. Those ages 30 to 65...

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A Pap smear is a cervical cancer screening commonly done at the same time as a pelvic exam. An HPV test also can be done at the same time.

Anyone with a cervix should get their first Pap smear at age 21 and another every three years before turning 30. Those ages 30 to 65 should have a Pap test every three to five years.

“If you are younger than 21, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says you do not need this type of screening,” said Amy E. Farrell, M.D., OB/GYN with Norton Women’s Care.

What is a Pap smear test?

A Pap smear (also referred to as cervical cytology or Pap test and named for its developer George Papanicolaou, M.D.) can detect abnormal, precancerous cervical cells. 

Precancerous changes to cervical tissue, or cervical dysplasia, won’t cause any symptoms, but can be identified through lab testing. A Pap test is a very effective cervical screening test. Early detection allows for early treatment, which can be the most successful. A regular Pap smear can identify abnormal cervical cells before they develop into cancer. Even if cervical cancer has started to develop, a Pap test can detect it and lead to early treatment that can preserve fertility. 

READ MORE: What’s the right age to start getting Pap smear tests?

The test is very brief, and while it may be a bit uncomfortable, it doesn’t hurt. You’ll lie on your back with your feet in stirrups and a drape over your legs. Your gynecologist or other health care provider will insert a speculum in your vagina to hold it open to provide access to your cervix. A small brush collects cervical cells and is placed in a tube for testing.

For two days prior to your Pap smear test, refrain from vaginal sex, stop using tampons, vaginal creams, medicines, lubricants or douches. Schedule your appointment for after your period ends. If you have your period on the day of the exam, contact your provider, as menstruation could alter the results.

A pelvic exam is not the same thing as a Pap smear. Although they commonly occur during the same visit, both tests are not a requirement for every appointment. They serve as important ways to keep you healthy, including prevention of certain medical conditions and screening for cancer.

According to ACOG, a pelvic exam is not necessary — unless certain symptoms are present or there is a risk of specific conditions — but a patient and provider should make this decision together.

Is a Pap smear also an HPV test?

Cervical cells collected during a Pap smear are also tested for HPV, a very common virus that often has no symptoms and clears up in a year or two without causing cancer. An HPV infection that persists for many years can lead to precancerous changes that can develop into cervical cancer. 

HPV testing and vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer.

After an abnormal Pap test result

If you get an abnormal Pap test or HPV result, you and your provider will discuss next steps, which could include:

  • A review of your medical history with an emphasis on relatives who may have had cervical or another gynecologic cancer
  • A physical exam that includes feeling your lymph nodes for any abnormalities
  • Follow-up test called a colposcopy: This test gives your health care provider a magnified view of the surface of your cervix. As with a Pap smear, you’ll lie on your back, and your provider will insert a speculum in your vagina to provide access for the colposcopy. The exam causes no more discomfort than a Pap smear. A weak solution of acetic acid (the same acid in vinegar) will be applied to your cervix to highlight abnormal areas. A small piece of cervical tissue may be removed for a biopsy to determine whether there are signs of cervical precancer, cancer or neither. 
  • A cone biopsy retrieves a bit of tissue for testing and can serve as treatment by removing all the abnormal cervical tissue. The small piece of tissue is cut in the shape of a cone and may leave you with some discomfort for about a week.

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Norton Cancer Institute Pat Harrison Resource Center brings hope to cancer patients https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/norton-cancer-institute-pat-harrison-resource-center-brings-hope-to-cancer-patients Tue, 29 Oct 2024 20:38:00 +0000 https://nortonhealthcare.com/news/ If you or a loved one is facing cancer, you don’t have to go through it alone. At the Norton Cancer Institute Pat Harrison Resource Center in Jeffersonville, Indiana, patients and their families can find support, compassion, and most of all — hope. The Pat Harrison Resource Center offers free support services to patients throughout...

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If you or a loved one is facing cancer, you don’t have to go through it alone. At the Norton Cancer Institute Pat Harrison Resource Center in Jeffersonville, Indiana, patients and their families can find support, compassion, and most of all — hope.

The Pat Harrison Resource Center offers free support services to patients throughout their cancer journey, regardless of where they receive their cancer treatment. The center reaches thousands of cancer patients, survivors and their families each year.

The resource center was created by Southern Indiana real estate agent Pat Harrison, whose own battle with breast cancer inspired her to create a place of healing and hope for other cancer patients. Pat recognized just how important it was to have a welcoming and healing environment where cancer patients can receive information, guidance and resources while connecting with other patients and families going through similar experiences.

Thanks to Pat’s inspiration and generous donations through the Norton Healthcare Foundation, her vision was realized in partnership with Norton Healthcare and Norton Clark Hospital. Today, her namesake center serves as one of five Norton Cancer Institute Resource Centers, carrying forward the mission of offering support at every step in the cancer journey, from diagnosis to survivorship.

Free comprehensive support

The Pat Harrison Resource Center is committed to offering all services at no cost. These services provide emotional and mental support to help cancer patients feel whole and empowered during one of the most challenging times of their lives, regardless of their financial situation.

Services include:

  • Community support and counseling groups
  • Classes and seminars on cancer education and survivorship
  • Private educational sessions with oncology-certified nurses
  • Complementary therapies, such as massage, music therapy, art therapy, and yoga
  • Mastectomy resources for breast cancer patients
  • Nutritional counseling for a balanced diet during treatment
  • Wigs, turbans, hats, and head coverings
  • Access to a lending library for additional resources
  • Information on clinical trials and treatment advancements

Compassion is at the core of the Pat Harrison Resource Center. Patients and their families can expect to find warmth and comfort from those who understand quality of life is just as important as longevity to a patient with cancer. Staff at the center will help support each patient’s well-being while helping them navigate the critical moments between treatments, medical appointments and beyond.

Norton Cancer Institute  Pat Harrison Resource Center

If you or a loved one has cancer, you’re not alone. We provide comfort, education and support to patients in Southern Indiana.

Call (812) 288-1156 Find a Norton Cancer Institute Resource Center near you

Patient testimonial: Johnna Webb

Cancer can be a challenging journey, but the Pat Harrison Resource Center provides patients with the knowledge and comfort they need to face their cancer with strength and courage.

After Johnna Webb, of Charlestown, Indiana, was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma, she was introduced to Deborah L. Pirtle, R.N., OCN, an oncology patient navigator and advocate at the Pat Harrison Resource Center.

According to Johnna, Deborah’s role went beyond typical support — Johnna felt like she had a supportive friend who was always checking in, listening and advocating for her health care needs and wishes.

“Deborah even attended my care team’s tumor board meeting and made sure to contact me afterward to help ease my mind,” Johnna said. “She promised that she would be there every step of the way.”

Deborah’s continued check-ins and personalized care made a major difference as Johnna weighed her treatment options, including surgeries. The Pat Harrison Resource Center provided Johnna with free booklets and detailed education materials about her treatments and medications, including what to expect, which offered immediate answers and peace of mind.

Johnna has recovered from her lumpectomy and radiation treatments and continues to attend appointments with her oncology team. Deborah continues to call regularly with updates and to offer support, according to Johnna.

“The Pat Harrison Resource Center provided me with extra hope and confidence that I could beat cancer,” Johnna said. “I encourage anyone facing cancer to utilize this invaluable resource in the Southern Indiana community.”

Hope for patients and their families

Cancer can be beatable, especially when patients feel supported. The Pat Harrison Resource Center focuses on patients, but recognizes that caregivers and family members are part of the healing journey as well. Family members also can access resources to help cope with caring for a loved one with cancer.

No one should face cancer alone

The Pat Harrison Resource Center is located at 1206 Spring St., Jeffersonville, IN, 47130. For more information or to access the center’s services, call (812) 288-1156 or visit NortonHealthcare.com/CancerPatientResources.

About the Norton Healthcare Foundation

As the philanthropic arm of Norton Healthcare’s not-for-profit adult services, the Norton Healthcare Foundation raises funds to support initiatives at Norton Audubon Hospital, Norton Brownsboro Hospital, Norton Clark Hospital, Norton Hospital, Norton King’s Daughters’ Health, Norton Scott Hospital, Norton West Louisville Hospital and Norton Women’s & Children’s Hospital.

Thanks to support from our community, caregivers and our hospitals can stay up to date with medical advances and technology, thereby maintaining the community’s access to high-quality health care.

Funds raised also make a difference for the more than 400,000 patients and their families who come to us for care each year by supporting the purchase of new equipment, providing programs and education, and funding research spanning Norton Cancer Institute, Norton Heart & Vascular Institute, Norton Neuroscience Institute, Norton Women’s Care and other adult health services.

Learn more or make a donation to help the Norton Healthcare Foundation continue to support patients in our community.

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